Megaforce? Megaflop!

Made in 1982, Megaforce had an impressive $20 Million budget. It starred the bearded Barry Bostwick (Spin City) as the heroic freedom fighter Commander Ace Hunter. Ace Hunter and his team Megaforce must put a stop to Duke Guerrera, an evil dictator from Gamibia-- who is threatening the Republic of Sardun.

For a film in 1982 to have such an incredible budget, it's easy to assume that it was special effects driven, and it was. Motorcycles that fly and shoot missiles, dune buggies with lasers, and other absurdities. This film was meant to be a box office success. But it quickly went from a possible toy and video game franchise to failure to obscurity.

Megaforce had it all before it even hit the theaters.


 

What was the result? 14 days in the box office with a gross of $5,675,599.

 

Why did it fail? Simple: It was terrible! It could be best described as G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra of the early-80s. Though that film had some level of success financially, in terms of special effects, acting, and ridiculous dialog-- spot on, Megaforce is G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. Even though it was a complete dud, the film is somewhat watchable.... Ever throw Styrofoam into a fire and can only stare as it melts away? The film is a little like that. It's enjoyable to watch in its own uninspiring, unemotional, and uneventful way and for anyone willing to let go of reality, this film will cause plenty of chuckles. 

If anyone is curious on where to find this film, start looking anywhere that sales used VHS cassettes. It has not and probably will not be released on DVD.

Sources: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084316/business