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Jul 16, 2015lukasevansherman rated this title 2.5 out of 5 stars
Perhaps the first (and only) feminist caveman--sorry, caveperson--film. I haven't read the novel by U. of Portland alum Jean Auel, so I can't compare. It was released a few years after another prehistoric drama, "Quest for Fire," but these movies never really took off. Maybe because it's hard to take neanderthals seriously. The Oscar-nominated make up is impressive, but also a little comical. Daryl Hannah, who had nailed sexy cyborg ("Blade Runner") and sexy mermaid ("Splash"), plays a sexy Cro-Magnon who loses her mom and is adopted by the title clan. I think it's really about how blondes are treated differently in society (alternate title: "Cave Gentlemen Prefer Blondes"). Pamela Reed and James Remar play her adoptive parents. The characters use a mix of sign language and prehistoric speech (subtitled). Filmed in Canada, it does at least look great and there's a pretty awesome bear fight. Future "Speed" director Jan de Bont did the cinematography and indie stalwart John Sayles wrote the script. Director Michael Chapman was better known for shooting "Taxi Driver" and "Raging Bull." Not great, but of interest.