“Unadulterated Entertainment…”

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Gordon’s Alive is pleased to present the penultimate pair of features exhumed from the pages of vintage Starlog magazine.  Issue #44 contained both articles reproduced above and below, starting with a very rare conversation with Director Mike Hodges.

Speaking candidly about the sheer scale of the production and difficulties with special effects, etc. the renowned British director compliments cast and crew and casually reveals he was original director Nic Roeg’s personal choice to helm the sequel rather than assuming control of the picture once Roeg departed.

Describing the $30 Million movie as ‘Unadulterated Entertainment’ and a literal translation of Alex Raymond’s ‘cartoon’, he admits the fallout between star and Producer could ultimately have an effect on the film, ironically eliminating the possibility of the sequel Hodges was touted for…

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This fascinating and detailed interview with SFX Supremo’s Martin J. Bower and Bill Pearson is a great overview for anyone captivated by the highly-stylised designs and effects work showcased in Flash Gordon.

Though much of the talented British FX team’s work sadly never made it to the screen (the Fireball XL5 style Rocket and space graveyard the most tragic of omissions), their stories of superglue and rivets are arguably eclipsed by the revelation that the infamous Arborian tree stump beast is actually called The Emproygen…

Ah-Haaa!

GORDON’S ALIVE! Welcomes you to 2016!

This year is certain to be huge for Flashfans due to the aftershocks of the 35th anniversary and growing readership of this site, with all-new content and vintage treasures from across the globe (starting below).  Look out for contributions from and interviews with fellow Flash collectors, all dedicated to making this the ultimate resource for the saviour of the universe!

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Roughly translated as ‘The superstar in the realm of the stars’ this rare fold-out promo flyer would adorn many a German cinema lobby in the run up to release.

Beyond the odd rare photo and primitive cut and paste (note Kala’s decapitated head) the credits as shown may be the only instance of Jones and Muti headlining, with Von Sydow’s Ming dropping down to fourth place…

 

Coming Soon!

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Gordon’s Alive! is proud to present this special photographic preview of an upcoming special feature on the 35th Anniversary Celebration held last month at BAFTA in London.  The page will be a permanent addition to the site and the coverage so thorough it will be like you were actually there.

For those fortunate enough to attend the page will hopefully serve as an online souvenir of an unforgettable experience, an evening of sheer class with a gathering of friendly, like-minded people from across all cultures all with one thing in common – an unashamed admiration for this timeless sci-fi classic.

With thanks in advance to organiser Lisa Downs, associate and graphic designer Bob Lindenmeyer, host Jason Lenzi and of course the attending cast & crew, the 35th page will hopefully be a fitting testimony to your efforts…