February 3, 2025 • 15 mins
Heavy Metal (1981) is a visually striking animated film that blends dark fantasy with a groundbreaking mix of violence, erotism, and an unforgettable rock soundtrack. With diverse, genre-spanning stories and an anthology structure, it takes the viewer through surreal landscapes and heroic escapades. Influenced by iconic artists and set to music from bands like Black Sabbath, Heavy Metal remains a cult classic, pushing the boundaries of animation and storytelling.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey, everyone, ready to crank it up. Today, we're taking
a deep dive into a true cult classic, heavy Metal.
That's right, the nineteen eighty one animated film that well,
let's just say it wasn't your average Saturday morning cartoon.
Speaker 2 (00:13):
Oh definitely not for the kiddos, that's for sure.
Speaker 1 (00:15):
Yeah, this one's got it all sci fi, fantasy, action,
a little bit of horror, and a whole lot of
heavy metal.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
It really pushed the boundaries of what animation could be,
especially back then.
Speaker 1 (00:26):
And we're using this fantastic article from platar Network as
our guide. For those who don't know. Platour is a
streaming service. It's all about independent and often overlooked films,
and they've got a real appreciation for why heavy metal
is such a big deal.
Speaker 2 (00:40):
They definitely get it.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
So where do we even begin with a movie like this?
I mean, it's visually stunning, it's got a killer soundtrack,
and it jumps between all these different stories. It's a
lot to take in.
Speaker 2 (00:51):
Well, I think the visuals are a great place to start.
I mean, this film is a visual feast right from
the opening scene.
Speaker 1 (00:56):
Absolutely. The Plitour article talks about how unique and influential
the animation style is it's like nothing else out there
even today.
Speaker 2 (01:04):
One of the things that makes it so unique is
its connection to the Heavy Metal magazine.
Speaker 1 (01:09):
Oh right, The film's based on the magazine, isn't it exactly?
Speaker 2 (01:12):
And you can see the influence of the magazine's art
style throughout the film. You've got these really fantastical, sometimes
surreal visuals, lots of sci fi fantasy, a bit of
an edge to it. It's like they took the pages
of the magazine and brought them to life.
Speaker 1 (01:27):
And the article specifically mentions an artist named Mobius. Was
he involved with the magazine?
Speaker 2 (01:32):
Oh? Absolutely. Mobius was a huge influence on Heavy Metal,
both the magazine and the film. His work is known
for being incredibly detailed and surreal. You can definitely see
his style in certain segments, like Tarna, for example.
Speaker 1 (01:45):
I'll have to keep an eye on for that.
Speaker 2 (01:46):
You'll know it when you see it, trust me. But
here's the thing. The film doesn't just stick to one
animation style. It actually uses a whole bunch of different techniques.
Speaker 1 (01:55):
Oh wow, So each segment is animated differently.
Speaker 2 (01:57):
In many cases, yes, and that's part of what makes
the film so visually striking. It's like a kaleidoscope of styles,
each one showsen to fit the tone and mood of
the particular story being told.
Speaker 1 (02:08):
I'm starting to see why this film has had such
a lasting impact on animation. It really puts the boundaries
of what.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
Was possible it absolutely did. And that brings us to
another key aspect of heavy metal. It's anthology structure.
Speaker 1 (02:20):
Right. It's not just one story, It's a collection of
different stories, all connected by this mysterious green orb called Locknar.
Speaker 2 (02:28):
Exactly. Locknar is this malevolent force that kind of pops
up throughout the film, weaving its way through the different segments.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
Even though the stories themselves are separate, Locknar acts as
this creepy, connecting thread.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
That's a great way to put it. It's like the
filmmakers are reminding you that there's this darker forest play,
even when some segments lean towards humor.
Speaker 1 (02:48):
Okay, I'm intrigued. Give me some highlights. What are some
of the stories where Locknar shows up.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
Well, right off the bat, you've got soft Landing. It's
this really surreal opening sequence where an astronaut returns to
Earth in a flying corvette. Wait, what a flying Corvetteeah,
you heard that right, and there's no explanation, it just happens.
It perfectly sets the tone for the whole film. Expect
the unexpect.
Speaker 1 (03:12):
That's amazing. What else?
Speaker 2 (03:14):
Then? You've got Harry Canyon. It's a gritty noir inspired
story set in a futuristic New York city. I think
flying cars, seedy nightclubs, and a cynical taxi driver who
gets caught up in some seriously dangerous stuff.
Speaker 1 (03:29):
Sounds right up my alley.
Speaker 2 (03:30):
It's a great example of how heavy metal wasn't afraid
to play with different genres, to jump from sci fi
to fantasy to noir all within the same film.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
And of course we can't forget about Den ah Den.
Speaker 2 (03:42):
It's probably the most well known segment. It's a classic
heroes journey story, but with a very heavy metal twist.
Speaker 1 (03:48):
So what's the twist.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Well, you've got this nerdy teenager who's suddenly transported to
this barbaric world where he's transformed into this muscle bound warrior.
Speaker 1 (03:57):
Okay, that sounds pretty epic.
Speaker 2 (03:58):
It is. It's full of crazy creatures, epic battles, and
some really stunning visuals. Definitely a fan favorite.
Speaker 1 (04:05):
So we've got sci fi, noir, fantasy, all connected by
this evil green orb. It's wild. But it's not all
just surface level entertainment, right. There's some deeper themes at
play here too.
Speaker 2 (04:16):
Absolutely, heavy Metal touches on themes of power, corruption, desire,
and the consequences of our actions. It's not just a
mindless action flick. There's real depth to the storytelling.
Speaker 1 (04:28):
I love that. It's like they're using these over the
top stories to explore some really.
Speaker 2 (04:31):
Big ideas exactly, and they're doing it with a heavy
metal soundtrack blaring in the background. I mean, you can't
talk about heavy metal without talking about the music.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
Oh for sure. It's like the music is a character
in itself. It sets the mood, it drives the action.
It's just as important as the visuals.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
And the soundtrack is incredible. You've got legends like Black Sabbath,
Blue Oyster, Cult, Devo. It's basically who's who of heavy
metal royalty.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
It's like the perfect soundtrack for a film about rebellion,
pushing boundaries and embracing the strange and the unconventional.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
And that's what heavy metal is all about, isn't it.
It's a film that dares to be different, and it
pulls you along for the ride.
Speaker 1 (05:07):
It's amazing to think that this film was released over
forty years ago and it's still so relevant today. It's
a testament to its originality, its artistry, and its enduring appeal.
Speaker 2 (05:18):
And the fact that Plitur Network is showcasing it is
just fantastic. It's a film that deserves to be seen
by a new generation of yours.
Speaker 1 (05:26):
I couldn't agree more.
Speaker 2 (05:27):
You know, one thing that really strikes me about heavy
Metal is how it captures the spirit of its time.
Speaker 1 (05:32):
Now that you mentioned it, Yeah, there is kind of
a rebellious energy to it, wouldn't you say totally.
Speaker 2 (05:37):
This film came out in nineteen eighty one. Think about
what was going on in the world back then. Vietnam War, Watergate,
there was a lot of social and political upheaval. People,
especially young people, were disillusioned with the establishment.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
And heavy metal music was kind of a symbol of
that rebellion. Right. It was loud, it was aggressive, It
challenged the.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
Status quo exactly, and heavy Metal the film tapped into
that same rebellious spirit. It's not just the music, it's
the whole attitude of the film. It's dark, it's violent,
it's sexy, it's everything that mainstream animation wasn't at the time.
Speaker 1 (06:11):
Yeah. Even the look of the film feels rebellious, like
you said before, Compared to the polished animation of Disney
and stuff, Heavy Metal is gritty and raw, right.
Speaker 2 (06:19):
It's like it's embracing the ugliness, the darkness. It's not
trying to be pretty or safe, and that's what makes
it so visually striking.
Speaker 1 (06:27):
And then you add in that soundtrack, the Black Sabbath,
Blue Oyster Cull Devo, It's like the film is screaming,
we're here, we're different, and we're not going away.
Speaker 2 (06:37):
Yeah, and I think that really resonated with audiences back then,
especially with people who felt like they were on the
fringes of society, the outsiders, the misfits.
Speaker 1 (06:46):
So looks like Heavy Metal gave a voice to the counterculture.
Speaker 2 (06:48):
Absolutely. It was a film that said it's okay to
be different, it's okay to embrace the darkness, it's okay
to rock out. And people connected with that in a
really powerful.
Speaker 1 (06:57):
Way, and that's why it became such a cult class.
Speaker 2 (07:00):
I guess exactly. It wasn't just a movie, it was
a statement it was a cultural phenomenon.
Speaker 1 (07:05):
You know, it's fascinating how Heavy Metal manages to be
both rebellious and thoughtful at the same time.
Speaker 2 (07:12):
Right, Like we talked about earlier, there's some real depth
to those stories. They deal with themes of power, corruption, desire,
the nature of good and evil. It's not just mindless
action and explosions.
Speaker 1 (07:22):
I think that's one of the things that surprised me
when I first watched Heavy Metal. I was expecting something
a lot more superficial, but there's actually a lot to
unpack beneath the surface.
Speaker 2 (07:30):
Yeah, you can enjoy the film on a purely visceral level,
just soak in those visuals, crank up that soundtrack, and
have a blast, But there's also a lot there for
people who want to engage with it on a deeper level,
who want to think about the themes and the messages.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
Like it's working on multiple levels exactly.
Speaker 2 (07:46):
It's a wild ride, it's a philosophical exploration, it's a
countercultural manifesto. It's all of those things at once, and
that's what makes it so unique.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
I'm starting to understand why Pletor Network is so passionate
about showcasing this film. It's more than just entertainment. It's
a piece of cultural history that still has something to
say to us today. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:08):
It captures the energy, the anxieties, the creativity of a
very specific moment in time, and it does so in
a way that's still relevant and thought provoking even decades later.
Speaker 1 (08:17):
So we've talked about the cultural impact of Heavy Metal,
it's connection to the counterculture, but did it actually have
a lasting influence on other filmmakers and artists.
Speaker 2 (08:27):
Oh? Absolutely. Heavy Metal's influence can be seen everywhere, from
anime and video games to music videos and album art.
It really opened people's eyes to the possibilities of animation.
Speaker 1 (08:39):
So it's like Heavy Metal helped to pave the way
for the more adult, sophisticated animation that we see today.
Speaker 2 (08:45):
I think so. Yeah. It showed that animation could be
more than just lighthearted entertainment for kids. It could be dark,
it could be edgy, it could be thought provoking, it could.
Speaker 1 (08:53):
Be art that's amazing to think about. Like this one
film from nineteen eighty one helped to change the course
of Anae animation history.
Speaker 2 (09:01):
And its impact goes beyond animation too. You can see
its influence in comic books, video games, even fashion.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
It's a heavy Metal's DNA is woven into the fabric
of pop.
Speaker 2 (09:09):
Culture exactly, and it's still inspiring artists today, which shows
you just how powerful and groundbreaking it was and still is.
Speaker 1 (09:17):
So if someone's never seen Heavy Metal, what's the one
thing you'd want them to know? What's the key takeaway here?
Speaker 2 (09:22):
I think the most important thing is that Heavy Metal
is an experience. It's not just a movie you watch.
It's a world you step.
Speaker 1 (09:28):
Into, a world of imagination, excess and pure creative.
Speaker 2 (09:32):
Energy, exactly. It's a film that assaults your senses, challenges
your expectations, and leaves you wanting more.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
And it's a reminder that art can be challenging, rebellious,
and a whole lot of fun all at the same time.
Speaker 2 (09:47):
Well said, it's a film that dared to be different,
and in doing so, it changed the landscape of animation forever.
Speaker 1 (09:53):
Okay, so we've talked about the cultural impact, the influence,
the legacy of Heavy Metal, but let's dive into the
actual filmmaking itself. Yeah, what are some of the specific
techniques that make this film so visually captivating?
Speaker 2 (10:06):
That's a great question, and that's what we're going to
tackle Next, we'll take a closer look at how the
filmmakers used animation, editing, storytelling, all those things to create
such a unique and memorable experience.
Speaker 1 (10:16):
Sounds good, Let's do it. Okay, So let's dig into
the nuts and bolts of Heavy Metal. We've talked about
the wild stories, the kick Ass soundtrack, the whole vibe,
but now I want to get geeky about those visuals.
Speaker 2 (10:26):
Love it. It's time for an animation autopsy exactly.
Speaker 1 (10:30):
You know. The Plantarin Network article really emphasized how experimental
Heavy Metal was with its animation style. It wasn't just
one approach. They blended a whole bunch of techniques together right.
Speaker 2 (10:42):
Right, and it was such a bold move for the time.
Think about it. Nineteen eighty one, most animation was still
pretty traditional, you know, kind of disney esque, but Heavy
Metal said, nah, we're going to do our own thing.
Speaker 1 (10:52):
It totally paid off. Though even today, the animation feels
fresh and unique. It's part of why the film has
become such a cult classic.
Speaker 2 (11:00):
It was way ahead of the curve and the variety
of styles. It really keeps you on your toes as
a viewer. Each segment has its own distinct look and feel,
which makes the whole film field dynamic and surprising.
Speaker 1 (11:11):
The article specifically mentioned the influence of artist Mobius, particularly
in segments like Tarna. They called it out as being
very distinct. Can you break that down for me? What
should I be looking for when I watch it?
Speaker 2 (11:22):
Oh Man, Mobius was a genius. His work is so detailed,
so surreal, like this incredible blend of science fiction and fantasy.
And you can totally see his fingerprints all over Tarna.
The landscapes, for example, are so vast and sweeping, with
these amazing little details that draw you in.
Speaker 1 (11:39):
I've seen some of his art and yeah, you can
totally see it in Tarna. The way the characters kind
of blend into the backgrounds, it's like their bodies are
part of the environment exactly.
Speaker 2 (11:48):
That's classic Mobius. It's almost like the lines between the
characters and the background blur. You know. It creates this dreamy,
otherworldly atmosphere that's perfect for Tarna. The filmmaker's totally nailed
using his style for that segment.
Speaker 1 (12:02):
So you've got that surreal, almost psychedelic style in Tarna.
But then you have segments like say B seventeen which
have a completely different look, more realistic, gritty, almost like
a war documentary.
Speaker 2 (12:12):
That's exactly it. Heavy Metal wasn't afraid to jump between
these dramatically different styles. B seventeen needed that rougher, more
realistic aesthetic to match the intensity of the war story.
You know, it makes.
Speaker 1 (12:24):
Total sense, like you wouldn't want a segment about a
zombie apocalypse to look all whimsical and cartoony, right right.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
The film's variety and animation styles was so crucial. It
kept things interesting. But more importantly, each style was a
deliberate choice, chosen to enhance the storytelling, the mood, the
whole emotional impact of each segment.
Speaker 1 (12:45):
I've also heard people say Heavy Metal feels more cinematic
than other animated films of that time.
Speaker 2 (12:50):
Oh yeah, for sure. And that's not just because of
the different animation styles. The filmmakers really leaned into techniques
from live action filmmaking. They use close ups, wide shots,
dramatic camera angles, even slow motion at times.
Speaker 1 (13:04):
Wow. So it's like they were treating the animation like
it was.
Speaker 2 (13:07):
Live action exactly. They weren't limited by the fact that
they were working with drawings. They wanted to create the
same kind of visual impact that you'd see in a
big budget action movie or a sci fi epic.
Speaker 1 (13:17):
It's another example of how Heavy Metal broke the mold.
You know. It showed that animation could be just as powerful,
just as visually stunning as any other type of film.
Speaker 2 (13:26):
Totally. It really expanded the possibilities of what animation could achieve,
and it influenced generations of filmmakers who came after.
Speaker 1 (13:33):
Okay, so we've talked about the animation, but Heavy Metal
is an anthology film. How did the filmmakers make all
these separate stories work together as a whole.
Speaker 2 (13:41):
Well, that's where Locknar comes in. That creepy green orb
is more than just a visual motif. It's the thread
that ties all these disparate stories together.
Speaker 1 (13:50):
So it's like a reminder that no matter what kind
of world we're in, no matter how fun or wild
things get, there's always this underlying darkness, the sense of threat.
Speaker 2 (13:58):
You got it, and are also embodies some of the
deeper themes that run throughout the film, corruption, the destructive
nature of power, the potential for evil that lurks within
us all.
Speaker 1 (14:09):
It's amazing how they were able to weave those themes
into these seemingly standalone stories.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Right, each segment stands on its own, but together they
create this tapestry of ideas exploring the darker side of
human nature from all these different angles.
Speaker 1 (14:22):
It's like the filmmakers are giving us a glimpse into
the human condition through the lens of sci fi, fantasy
and heavy metal.
Speaker 2 (14:29):
Of course exactly. And it's not always pretty, but it's
always thought provoking. Heavy Metal makes you question things, makes
you confront uncomfortable truths about yourself and the world we
live in.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
I think that's what makes it such a powerful film.
It's entertaining, it's visually stunning, but it also sticks with
you long after the credits roll.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
Couldn't agree more. It's a film that stays with you.
It's a film that makes you think.
Speaker 1 (14:51):
So, as we wrap up this awesome deep dive into
heavy metal, what's the one thing you want listeners to
take away? What makes this film so special, so enduring?
Speaker 2 (15:00):
You know? I think it comes down to this, Heavy
Metal is an experience. It's not just a movie you watch.
It's a world you step into, a world of imagination,
excess and raw, unfiltered creative energy.
Speaker 1 (15:13):
It's a film that celebrates the weird, the wild, the unconventional,
and it reminds us that animation can be so much
more than just kid stuff.
Speaker 2 (15:21):
And it's a testament to the power of taking risks,
of pushing boundaries, of not being afraid to be different.
Speaker 1 (15:27):
Well said, heavy Metal is a true original and it
continues to inspire and amaze audiences even today. And a
huge thanks to Plitora Network for giving this cold classic
a platform where it can be discovered and appreciated by
new generations of fans.
Speaker 2 (15:41):
Absolutely, if you haven't seen heavy Metal, I highly recommend
checking it out. It's an experience you won't forget.
Speaker 1 (15:47):
Thanks for joining us for this awesome deep dive. Until
next time, keep rocking, keep exploring, and never be afraid
to embrace the strange and the wonderful.
Hey, everyone, ready to crank it up. Today, we're taking
a deep dive into a true cult classic, heavy Metal.
That's right, the nineteen eighty one animated film that well,
let's just say it wasn't your average Saturday morning cartoon.
Speaker 2 (00:13):
Oh definitely not for the kiddos, that's for sure.
Speaker 1 (00:15):
Yeah, this one's got it all sci fi, fantasy, action,
a little bit of horror, and a whole lot of
heavy metal.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
It really pushed the boundaries of what animation could be,
especially back then.
Speaker 1 (00:26):
And we're using this fantastic article from platar Network as
our guide. For those who don't know. Platour is a
streaming service. It's all about independent and often overlooked films,
and they've got a real appreciation for why heavy metal
is such a big deal.
Speaker 2 (00:40):
They definitely get it.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
So where do we even begin with a movie like this?
I mean, it's visually stunning, it's got a killer soundtrack,
and it jumps between all these different stories. It's a
lot to take in.
Speaker 2 (00:51):
Well, I think the visuals are a great place to start.
I mean, this film is a visual feast right from
the opening scene.
Speaker 1 (00:56):
Absolutely. The Plitour article talks about how unique and influential
the animation style is it's like nothing else out there
even today.
Speaker 2 (01:04):
One of the things that makes it so unique is
its connection to the Heavy Metal magazine.
Speaker 1 (01:09):
Oh right, The film's based on the magazine, isn't it exactly?
Speaker 2 (01:12):
And you can see the influence of the magazine's art
style throughout the film. You've got these really fantastical, sometimes
surreal visuals, lots of sci fi fantasy, a bit of
an edge to it. It's like they took the pages
of the magazine and brought them to life.
Speaker 1 (01:27):
And the article specifically mentions an artist named Mobius. Was
he involved with the magazine?
Speaker 2 (01:32):
Oh? Absolutely. Mobius was a huge influence on Heavy Metal,
both the magazine and the film. His work is known
for being incredibly detailed and surreal. You can definitely see
his style in certain segments, like Tarna, for example.
Speaker 1 (01:45):
I'll have to keep an eye on for that.
Speaker 2 (01:46):
You'll know it when you see it, trust me. But
here's the thing. The film doesn't just stick to one
animation style. It actually uses a whole bunch of different techniques.
Speaker 1 (01:55):
Oh wow, So each segment is animated differently.
Speaker 2 (01:57):
In many cases, yes, and that's part of what makes
the film so visually striking. It's like a kaleidoscope of styles,
each one showsen to fit the tone and mood of
the particular story being told.
Speaker 1 (02:08):
I'm starting to see why this film has had such
a lasting impact on animation. It really puts the boundaries
of what.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
Was possible it absolutely did. And that brings us to
another key aspect of heavy metal. It's anthology structure.
Speaker 1 (02:20):
Right. It's not just one story, It's a collection of
different stories, all connected by this mysterious green orb called Locknar.
Speaker 2 (02:28):
Exactly. Locknar is this malevolent force that kind of pops
up throughout the film, weaving its way through the different segments.
Speaker 1 (02:35):
Even though the stories themselves are separate, Locknar acts as
this creepy, connecting thread.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
That's a great way to put it. It's like the
filmmakers are reminding you that there's this darker forest play,
even when some segments lean towards humor.
Speaker 1 (02:48):
Okay, I'm intrigued. Give me some highlights. What are some
of the stories where Locknar shows up.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
Well, right off the bat, you've got soft Landing. It's
this really surreal opening sequence where an astronaut returns to
Earth in a flying corvette. Wait, what a flying Corvetteeah,
you heard that right, and there's no explanation, it just happens.
It perfectly sets the tone for the whole film. Expect
the unexpect.
Speaker 1 (03:12):
That's amazing. What else?
Speaker 2 (03:14):
Then? You've got Harry Canyon. It's a gritty noir inspired
story set in a futuristic New York city. I think
flying cars, seedy nightclubs, and a cynical taxi driver who
gets caught up in some seriously dangerous stuff.
Speaker 1 (03:29):
Sounds right up my alley.
Speaker 2 (03:30):
It's a great example of how heavy metal wasn't afraid
to play with different genres, to jump from sci fi
to fantasy to noir all within the same film.
Speaker 1 (03:39):
And of course we can't forget about Den ah Den.
Speaker 2 (03:42):
It's probably the most well known segment. It's a classic
heroes journey story, but with a very heavy metal twist.
Speaker 1 (03:48):
So what's the twist.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Well, you've got this nerdy teenager who's suddenly transported to
this barbaric world where he's transformed into this muscle bound warrior.
Speaker 1 (03:57):
Okay, that sounds pretty epic.
Speaker 2 (03:58):
It is. It's full of crazy creatures, epic battles, and
some really stunning visuals. Definitely a fan favorite.
Speaker 1 (04:05):
So we've got sci fi, noir, fantasy, all connected by
this evil green orb. It's wild. But it's not all
just surface level entertainment, right. There's some deeper themes at
play here too.
Speaker 2 (04:16):
Absolutely, heavy Metal touches on themes of power, corruption, desire,
and the consequences of our actions. It's not just a
mindless action flick. There's real depth to the storytelling.
Speaker 1 (04:28):
I love that. It's like they're using these over the
top stories to explore some really.
Speaker 2 (04:31):
Big ideas exactly, and they're doing it with a heavy
metal soundtrack blaring in the background. I mean, you can't
talk about heavy metal without talking about the music.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
Oh for sure. It's like the music is a character
in itself. It sets the mood, it drives the action.
It's just as important as the visuals.
Speaker 2 (04:46):
And the soundtrack is incredible. You've got legends like Black Sabbath,
Blue Oyster, Cult, Devo. It's basically who's who of heavy
metal royalty.
Speaker 1 (04:55):
It's like the perfect soundtrack for a film about rebellion,
pushing boundaries and embracing the strange and the unconventional.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
And that's what heavy metal is all about, isn't it.
It's a film that dares to be different, and it
pulls you along for the ride.
Speaker 1 (05:07):
It's amazing to think that this film was released over
forty years ago and it's still so relevant today. It's
a testament to its originality, its artistry, and its enduring appeal.
Speaker 2 (05:18):
And the fact that Plitur Network is showcasing it is
just fantastic. It's a film that deserves to be seen
by a new generation of yours.
Speaker 1 (05:26):
I couldn't agree more.
Speaker 2 (05:27):
You know, one thing that really strikes me about heavy
Metal is how it captures the spirit of its time.
Speaker 1 (05:32):
Now that you mentioned it, Yeah, there is kind of
a rebellious energy to it, wouldn't you say totally.
Speaker 2 (05:37):
This film came out in nineteen eighty one. Think about
what was going on in the world back then. Vietnam War, Watergate,
there was a lot of social and political upheaval. People,
especially young people, were disillusioned with the establishment.
Speaker 1 (05:50):
And heavy metal music was kind of a symbol of
that rebellion. Right. It was loud, it was aggressive, It
challenged the.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
Status quo exactly, and heavy Metal the film tapped into
that same rebellious spirit. It's not just the music, it's
the whole attitude of the film. It's dark, it's violent,
it's sexy, it's everything that mainstream animation wasn't at the time.
Speaker 1 (06:11):
Yeah. Even the look of the film feels rebellious, like
you said before, Compared to the polished animation of Disney
and stuff, Heavy Metal is gritty and raw, right.
Speaker 2 (06:19):
It's like it's embracing the ugliness, the darkness. It's not
trying to be pretty or safe, and that's what makes
it so visually striking.
Speaker 1 (06:27):
And then you add in that soundtrack, the Black Sabbath,
Blue Oyster Cull Devo, It's like the film is screaming,
we're here, we're different, and we're not going away.
Speaker 2 (06:37):
Yeah, and I think that really resonated with audiences back then,
especially with people who felt like they were on the
fringes of society, the outsiders, the misfits.
Speaker 1 (06:46):
So looks like Heavy Metal gave a voice to the counterculture.
Speaker 2 (06:48):
Absolutely. It was a film that said it's okay to
be different, it's okay to embrace the darkness, it's okay
to rock out. And people connected with that in a
really powerful.
Speaker 1 (06:57):
Way, and that's why it became such a cult class.
Speaker 2 (07:00):
I guess exactly. It wasn't just a movie, it was
a statement it was a cultural phenomenon.
Speaker 1 (07:05):
You know, it's fascinating how Heavy Metal manages to be
both rebellious and thoughtful at the same time.
Speaker 2 (07:12):
Right, Like we talked about earlier, there's some real depth
to those stories. They deal with themes of power, corruption, desire,
the nature of good and evil. It's not just mindless
action and explosions.
Speaker 1 (07:22):
I think that's one of the things that surprised me
when I first watched Heavy Metal. I was expecting something
a lot more superficial, but there's actually a lot to
unpack beneath the surface.
Speaker 2 (07:30):
Yeah, you can enjoy the film on a purely visceral level,
just soak in those visuals, crank up that soundtrack, and
have a blast, But there's also a lot there for
people who want to engage with it on a deeper level,
who want to think about the themes and the messages.
Speaker 1 (07:44):
Like it's working on multiple levels exactly.
Speaker 2 (07:46):
It's a wild ride, it's a philosophical exploration, it's a
countercultural manifesto. It's all of those things at once, and
that's what makes it so unique.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
I'm starting to understand why Pletor Network is so passionate
about showcasing this film. It's more than just entertainment. It's
a piece of cultural history that still has something to
say to us today. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:08):
It captures the energy, the anxieties, the creativity of a
very specific moment in time, and it does so in
a way that's still relevant and thought provoking even decades later.
Speaker 1 (08:17):
So we've talked about the cultural impact of Heavy Metal,
it's connection to the counterculture, but did it actually have
a lasting influence on other filmmakers and artists.
Speaker 2 (08:27):
Oh? Absolutely. Heavy Metal's influence can be seen everywhere, from
anime and video games to music videos and album art.
It really opened people's eyes to the possibilities of animation.
Speaker 1 (08:39):
So it's like Heavy Metal helped to pave the way
for the more adult, sophisticated animation that we see today.
Speaker 2 (08:45):
I think so. Yeah. It showed that animation could be
more than just lighthearted entertainment for kids. It could be dark,
it could be edgy, it could be thought provoking, it could.
Speaker 1 (08:53):
Be art that's amazing to think about. Like this one
film from nineteen eighty one helped to change the course
of Anae animation history.
Speaker 2 (09:01):
And its impact goes beyond animation too. You can see
its influence in comic books, video games, even fashion.
Speaker 1 (09:06):
It's a heavy Metal's DNA is woven into the fabric
of pop.
Speaker 2 (09:09):
Culture exactly, and it's still inspiring artists today, which shows
you just how powerful and groundbreaking it was and still is.
Speaker 1 (09:17):
So if someone's never seen Heavy Metal, what's the one
thing you'd want them to know? What's the key takeaway here?
Speaker 2 (09:22):
I think the most important thing is that Heavy Metal
is an experience. It's not just a movie you watch.
It's a world you step.
Speaker 1 (09:28):
Into, a world of imagination, excess and pure creative.
Speaker 2 (09:32):
Energy, exactly. It's a film that assaults your senses, challenges
your expectations, and leaves you wanting more.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
And it's a reminder that art can be challenging, rebellious,
and a whole lot of fun all at the same time.
Speaker 2 (09:47):
Well said, it's a film that dared to be different,
and in doing so, it changed the landscape of animation forever.
Speaker 1 (09:53):
Okay, so we've talked about the cultural impact, the influence,
the legacy of Heavy Metal, but let's dive into the
actual filmmaking itself. Yeah, what are some of the specific
techniques that make this film so visually captivating?
Speaker 2 (10:06):
That's a great question, and that's what we're going to
tackle Next, we'll take a closer look at how the
filmmakers used animation, editing, storytelling, all those things to create
such a unique and memorable experience.
Speaker 1 (10:16):
Sounds good, Let's do it. Okay, So let's dig into
the nuts and bolts of Heavy Metal. We've talked about
the wild stories, the kick Ass soundtrack, the whole vibe,
but now I want to get geeky about those visuals.
Speaker 2 (10:26):
Love it. It's time for an animation autopsy exactly.
Speaker 1 (10:30):
You know. The Plantarin Network article really emphasized how experimental
Heavy Metal was with its animation style. It wasn't just
one approach. They blended a whole bunch of techniques together right.
Speaker 2 (10:42):
Right, and it was such a bold move for the time.
Think about it. Nineteen eighty one, most animation was still
pretty traditional, you know, kind of disney esque, but Heavy
Metal said, nah, we're going to do our own thing.
Speaker 1 (10:52):
It totally paid off. Though even today, the animation feels
fresh and unique. It's part of why the film has
become such a cult classic.
Speaker 2 (11:00):
It was way ahead of the curve and the variety
of styles. It really keeps you on your toes as
a viewer. Each segment has its own distinct look and feel,
which makes the whole film field dynamic and surprising.
Speaker 1 (11:11):
The article specifically mentioned the influence of artist Mobius, particularly
in segments like Tarna. They called it out as being
very distinct. Can you break that down for me? What
should I be looking for when I watch it?
Speaker 2 (11:22):
Oh Man, Mobius was a genius. His work is so detailed,
so surreal, like this incredible blend of science fiction and fantasy.
And you can totally see his fingerprints all over Tarna.
The landscapes, for example, are so vast and sweeping, with
these amazing little details that draw you in.
Speaker 1 (11:39):
I've seen some of his art and yeah, you can
totally see it in Tarna. The way the characters kind
of blend into the backgrounds, it's like their bodies are
part of the environment exactly.
Speaker 2 (11:48):
That's classic Mobius. It's almost like the lines between the
characters and the background blur. You know. It creates this dreamy,
otherworldly atmosphere that's perfect for Tarna. The filmmaker's totally nailed
using his style for that segment.
Speaker 1 (12:02):
So you've got that surreal, almost psychedelic style in Tarna.
But then you have segments like say B seventeen which
have a completely different look, more realistic, gritty, almost like
a war documentary.
Speaker 2 (12:12):
That's exactly it. Heavy Metal wasn't afraid to jump between
these dramatically different styles. B seventeen needed that rougher, more
realistic aesthetic to match the intensity of the war story.
You know, it makes.
Speaker 1 (12:24):
Total sense, like you wouldn't want a segment about a
zombie apocalypse to look all whimsical and cartoony, right right.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
The film's variety and animation styles was so crucial. It
kept things interesting. But more importantly, each style was a
deliberate choice, chosen to enhance the storytelling, the mood, the
whole emotional impact of each segment.
Speaker 1 (12:45):
I've also heard people say Heavy Metal feels more cinematic
than other animated films of that time.
Speaker 2 (12:50):
Oh yeah, for sure. And that's not just because of
the different animation styles. The filmmakers really leaned into techniques
from live action filmmaking. They use close ups, wide shots,
dramatic camera angles, even slow motion at times.
Speaker 1 (13:04):
Wow. So it's like they were treating the animation like
it was.
Speaker 2 (13:07):
Live action exactly. They weren't limited by the fact that
they were working with drawings. They wanted to create the
same kind of visual impact that you'd see in a
big budget action movie or a sci fi epic.
Speaker 1 (13:17):
It's another example of how Heavy Metal broke the mold.
You know. It showed that animation could be just as powerful,
just as visually stunning as any other type of film.
Speaker 2 (13:26):
Totally. It really expanded the possibilities of what animation could achieve,
and it influenced generations of filmmakers who came after.
Speaker 1 (13:33):
Okay, so we've talked about the animation, but Heavy Metal
is an anthology film. How did the filmmakers make all
these separate stories work together as a whole.
Speaker 2 (13:41):
Well, that's where Locknar comes in. That creepy green orb
is more than just a visual motif. It's the thread
that ties all these disparate stories together.
Speaker 1 (13:50):
So it's like a reminder that no matter what kind
of world we're in, no matter how fun or wild
things get, there's always this underlying darkness, the sense of threat.
Speaker 2 (13:58):
You got it, and are also embodies some of the
deeper themes that run throughout the film, corruption, the destructive
nature of power, the potential for evil that lurks within
us all.
Speaker 1 (14:09):
It's amazing how they were able to weave those themes
into these seemingly standalone stories.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Right, each segment stands on its own, but together they
create this tapestry of ideas exploring the darker side of
human nature from all these different angles.
Speaker 1 (14:22):
It's like the filmmakers are giving us a glimpse into
the human condition through the lens of sci fi, fantasy
and heavy metal.
Speaker 2 (14:29):
Of course exactly. And it's not always pretty, but it's
always thought provoking. Heavy Metal makes you question things, makes
you confront uncomfortable truths about yourself and the world we
live in.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
I think that's what makes it such a powerful film.
It's entertaining, it's visually stunning, but it also sticks with
you long after the credits roll.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
Couldn't agree more. It's a film that stays with you.
It's a film that makes you think.
Speaker 1 (14:51):
So, as we wrap up this awesome deep dive into
heavy metal, what's the one thing you want listeners to
take away? What makes this film so special, so enduring?
Speaker 2 (15:00):
You know? I think it comes down to this, Heavy
Metal is an experience. It's not just a movie you watch.
It's a world you step into, a world of imagination,
excess and raw, unfiltered creative energy.
Speaker 1 (15:13):
It's a film that celebrates the weird, the wild, the unconventional,
and it reminds us that animation can be so much
more than just kid stuff.
Speaker 2 (15:21):
And it's a testament to the power of taking risks,
of pushing boundaries, of not being afraid to be different.
Speaker 1 (15:27):
Well said, heavy Metal is a true original and it
continues to inspire and amaze audiences even today. And a
huge thanks to Plitora Network for giving this cold classic
a platform where it can be discovered and appreciated by
new generations of fans.
Speaker 2 (15:41):
Absolutely, if you haven't seen heavy Metal, I highly recommend
checking it out. It's an experience you won't forget.
Speaker 1 (15:47):
Thanks for joining us for this awesome deep dive. Until
next time, keep rocking, keep exploring, and never be afraid
to embrace the strange and the wonderful.
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