A struggling Wild
West show finds dinosaurs on the loose in Mexico, and
decides to exploit the discovery. The real star of this
movie is the stop-motion animation done by the grand
master of non-computerized special effects, Ray
Harryhausen. Crisp color photography adds to the
pulse-pounding scenes of prehistoric predators. The
production problems of this movie help explain its lack
of commercial success. In addition, a weak script and
wooden acting also detract from the enjoyment. The plot
drags and takes too long to get to the "monsters of
the lost valley" part. Once the special effects kick
in, things get more lively. The scenes of riders roping
Gwangi are thrilling. The show-ring battle, however,
between Gwangi and the elephant is not up to RH's usual
excellent standards. The elephant is too obviously an
animated model. The segment copies an earlier RH film,
"20 Million Miles to Earth." Gwangi rampaging
through the Mexican town recalls King Kong rampaging
through the streets of New York, but the comparison ends
there. The spectacular fire in the great cathedral is an
exciting visual display. Dedicated collectors of classic
fantasy films or steadfast fans of Ray Harryhausen will
want this one for their collection, regardless. ;-)