Lifeforce Movie Review: From Space Vampires to Longevity Concepts

Lifeforce (1985): When Space Vampires Met London, and Chaos Ensued

Ever seen a movie that's so bad, it's good? Let’s chat about Lifeforce. This 1985 sci-fi horror film became a cult classic for many reasons. Think space vampires, chaos in London, and a truckload of cheesy 80s moments. Curious? You should be.

Cosmic Horror Meets British Mayhem: Unpacking the Plot of Lifeforce

Get ready for the plot of Lifeforce. Picture an American-British space mission. Sounds serious? Not quite. They find an alien spacecraft. Inside are humanoid beings. They take these aliens aboard their shuttle. This is a huge mistake.

Fast forward to Earth, London. One alien, played by Mathilda May, becomes a vampire from space. She drains the essence of Londoners. Suddenly, the city is filled with half-dead zombies. It’s like an apocalypse, but with a cosmic twist.

Meet Tom Carlsen, played by Steve Railsback. He is the astronaut who survived the alien encounter. Seeing the chaos, Carlsen decides to stop this menace. He must save London and the world from becoming a buffet for space vampires. No pressure, Tom.

Genre-Bending at its Finest: Is Lifeforce Sci-Fi, Horror, or Just Plain Bonkers?

Lifeforce is often called sci-fi horror. That’s true but doesn’t capture the whole picture. It’s a mix of genres. We have spaceships and aliens, ticking off the sci-fi box. Then, blood-draining vampires and city panic for the horror box. Lifeforce is ‘80s bonkers-ville.

It’s epic in scope, silly in execution, and captivating. It makes you wonder what the filmmakers were smoking and where to get some.

Behind the Camera: Tobe Hooper's Cannon Films Adventure

Tobe Hooper directed this madness. Yes, the same Tobe Hooper who made Poltergeist in 1982. Lifeforce was the first of three films for Cannon Films. Cannon is known for their ‘economically produced’ action films. This fit Hooper’s wild imagination.

Before Poltergeist, Hooper worked with Steven Spielberg. After Lifeforce, he directed Invaders from Mars and Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2. Lifeforce fits right in that quirky filmography.

Meet the Players: The Cast of Lifeforce

Let’s discuss the faces in this bizarre tale.

Mathilda May: The Space Vampire Supreme

Mathilda May, born Karin Haïm, is a French actress and dancer. She is the face of the alien vampire threat. For many English-speaking viewers, she is the “Space Girl” from Lifeforce. Her performance is memorable for her... limited clothing choices. These became iconic and discussed for decades.

Steve Railsback as Tom Carlsen: Our Determined Astronaut Hero

Steve Railsback plays Tom Carlsen, the astronaut cleaning up a cosmic mess. He tries to make sense of the escalating madness. Railsback brings intensity to Carlsen. You almost believe he can stop a horde of vampires.

Setting the Stage: Filmed in Britain, But Is It Really Earth?

Lifeforce was filmed in Britain. This gives it a distinct British flavor as London faces chaos. The recognizable streets become unsettling backdrops. It’s like a British sitcom invaded by vampires. That contrast adds to the film's charm.

Rated R for... Reasons: The MPAA Weighs In

Lifeforce earned an R rating from the MPAA. No surprise there. With the vampire action and chaos, an R rating seems fitting. In today’s world, it might even be PG-13. However, back in 1985, R stood for something real. Lifeforce delivered mature content in its over-the-top way.

Two Cuts, Twice the Mayhem? The Different Versions of Lifeforce

Movie cuts can be a hassle or a delight. Lifeforce exists in two versions. There’s a 116-minute “international cut,” considered the director’s vision. Then, there’s a shorter 101-minute cut for the U.S. release ordered by TriStar Pictures.

The American cut is seen as inferior by many fans. It loses some of the ‘European’ sensibilities of the longer version. If you watch Lifeforce, seek out the international cut. It’s the full, uncut vampire experience.

Reception: Initially Panned, Now Praised (Ironically)

When Lifeforce released, critics weren’t kind. Rotten Tomatoes shows a poor initial reception. It was a box office disaster. Audiences didn't know how to categorize it. Was it sci-fi? Was it horror? Was it ridiculous?

However, over time, Lifeforce morphed into a cult classic. People appreciated its audacity, performances, and unapologetic silliness. It became a film enjoyed ironically, then genuinely, for its unique madness. Sometimes, the hardest bombs become the most beloved.

Where to Witness the Lifeforce Phenomenon Today

Want to witness the Lifeforce madness? You’re in luck! In this streaming age, space vampire chaos is just a click away.

You can stream Lifeforce on platforms like Tubi (for free!), fuboTV, MGM+ Amazon Channel, and others. Plenty of ways to enjoy this chaos.

If you prefer owning movies, Lifeforce is available for purchase or rent on various platforms. Find it on Microsoft Store, Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home. Choose your outlet! Space vampires await.

And yes, for those deep in the Amazon ecosystem, Lifeforce streams on Amazon Prime Video. So, no excuses left. Get watching.

Lifeforce: So Bad It's Brilliant? A Review (of Sorts)

Let’s be honest. Lifeforce won’t win any Oscars for storytelling or character arcs. But that’s not the point. Lifeforce is an experience. It’s an absurd rollercoaster that is both terrible and captivating.

One reviewer called it "awful yet kinda brilliant sci-fi that offers plenty to unpack to the casual cineaste." That captures it well. It rewards viewers who embrace silliness and madness.

Another review pointed out surprising quality: "It surprised me how well made and entertaining this was! If you're looking for a fun sci-fi/horror film, Lifeforce delivers!" This reviewer highlights the "European cut." Good advice. Stick to it. Your enjoyment will thank you.

The Cast Revisited: Mathilda May and Steve Railsback in Detail

Let’s dive deeper into our leading duo.

Mathilda May as the Alien Vampire (aka Space Girl)

As mentioned, Mathilda May, or Karin Haïm, is a Parisian actress. Lifeforce is her most iconic role for English-speaking audiences. She embodies the alien vampire with a blend of beauty and menace. Her *minimalist* wardrobe certainly contributed to the film's fame. Beyond nudity, May brings an otherworldly presence. She’s not just a monster; she’s seductive and enigmatic.

nature (or, well, space).

Steve Railsback as Colonel Tom Carlsen

Steve Railsback plays Tom Carlsen. He anchors sanity in Lifeforce’s madness. He’s the astronaut seeking order in chaos. Railsback gives the character a serious intensity. You see his effort to halt the alien invasion, even with impossible odds. He embodies the classic hero battling for humanity, even as it turns into zombies.

Decoding "Life Force": More Than Just Movie Title Fodder

Lifeforce is not merely a cool movie name. It reveals a deeper idea present in biology, physics, and spirituality. Let's break down this "life force" concept.

Definitions of "Life Force": From Biology to Physics

In biology, "life force" is a hypothetical force, non-physical and non-chemical. It symbolizes the spark animating life. Philosopher Henri Bergson called it "élan vital," the force driving growth and evolution. It defines what distinguishes living beings from those that are not.

In physics, "life force" means an influence that causes change in a physical quantity. More clinical in tone, it highlights an underlying energy that fuels action and transformation.

Related Concepts: Élan Vital, Prana, Axé, Qi, and Viññāna

The "life force" concept is not exclusive to Western philosophy or science. Various cultures have their interpretations of this vital energy.

• Élan Vital: Bergson's term for life's driving force, often used interchangeably with "vital force."
• Prana: In Hinduism, it represents life force, the energy flowing through beings. Tied to breath and essential for vitality. The Root Chakra connects us to Earth, while the Crown Chakra links to spiritual realms.
• Axé: In Candomblé, a religion from Africa, Axé means "life force." This concept reveals power and spiritual energy infused within.
• Qi (or Chi): In Chinese culture, Qi is a vital force residing in all life. It translates to "vital energy" or "energy," forming the core energy of the universe.
• Viññāna: In Thai Buddhism, Viññāna signifies consciousness after death. Unlike "jid-jai," when connected to a living body. This reflects life force as an independent entity.

Tapping into Your Own Life Force: How to Activate It (Apparently)

How do we access this "life force"? While the movie suggests aliens as sources, real-life offers practical, less dramatic methods.

Some suggest morning rituals help, like:

• Meditation: Quieting the mind, tapping into inner energy.
• Prayer: Connecting with a higher power for spiritual energy.
• Reading: Inspiring the mind for knowledge boost.
• Journal Writing: Reflecting on thoughts for clarity.
• Exercise: Moving the body boosts vitality and energy flow.

Doing these practices regularly can enhance your "life force." Whether proven or simply beneficial habits, we embrace mindful living.

Lifeforce: Not Just a Movie, But Also... a Longevity Company?

Life imitates art and inspires commerce. Meet Lifeforce, the company. No dealing with vampires here. They focus on longevity medicine.

Lifeforce (the Company): Extending Life, Not Sucking It

Lifeforce claims to be a "longevity medicine program." They blend diagnostics with doctors, coaches, and therapies backed by science. While the movie features aliens draining life force, this company aims to enhance yours. The irony is delicious.

Services Offered: Diagnostics, Doctors, and More

Lifeforce presents a suite of services to increase health and longevity:

• Diagnostics: Comprehensive testing to evaluate health and areas for enhancement.
• Doctors: Consults with professionals to interpret results and create tailored plans.
• Coaches: Support from coaches to implement lifestyle changes.
• Science-backed Longevity Therapies: Access to therapies aiming at health improvement.

The Founders: Tony Robbins, Peter Diamandis, and Dugal Bain-Kim

Lifeforce originated from a group: speaker Tony Robbins, entrepreneur Peter Diamandis, and Dugal Bain-Kim. Bain-Kim serves as CEO now. Big names like Robbins signal ambitious goals in the longevity industry.

The Cost of Longevity: Is Lifeforce Affordable?

Longevity comes at a cost. The Lifeforce Diagnostic starts at $549. This covers an at-home blood draw, online dashboard access, and a telehealth consultation. It’s a notable upfront investment.

Lifeforce membership runs at $149 monthly for ongoing coaching and personalized plans. It’s a subscription for extending life. Deciding its worth is personal.

Tests Included: Lab Work, Body Composition, and More

The Lifeforce Diagnostic offers extensive tests, including:

• Lab Work Results: Blood tests revealing health biomarkers.
• Body Composition Analysis: Gauging muscle mass, fat, and other vital measures.
• Blood Pressure Measurement: A standard marker of heart health.
• Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessment: Evaluating heart and lung performance during exercise.
• Resting Heart Rate Measurement: Another gauge of cardiovascular state and fitness.

Location, Location, Location: San Francisco Headquarters

Lifeforce Capital is based in San Francisco, California. Ideal for a company merging science with technology in pursuit of life extension. Silicon Valley meets the quest for immortality. That seems fitting.

Related Cinematic Adventures: Vampires, Space, and More

If Lifeforce intrigues you, film lovers will find plenty more in this genre. Explore a universe of vampires, space films, and movies starring Lifeforce actors.

Vampire Movie Ventures: From Dark Shadows to Dracula

For vampire fans, numerous films await:

• Dark Shadows: Johnny Depp as a vampire in a Tim Burton film? Need we say more?
• Interview with the Vampire: Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt star in this brooding classic.
• Bram Stoker's Dracula (1992): A stunning visual adaptation by Coppola with Gary Oldman's famous performance.
• Vampire's Kiss: Nicolas Cage in an iconic, over-the-top role about his vampire transformation.

Space Movies of 1984: A Galaxy of Options

1984 proved significant for space-themed cinema. Consider these top picks:

• Starman: A gentler take on alien encounters from John Carpenter.
• Dune: Lynch’s unique adaptation of Herbert’s epic story.
• The Last Starfighter: A gamer gets recruited for an actual alien war, tapping into 80s fantasies.
• 2010: The Year We Make Contact: A follow-up to 2001: A Space Odyssey addressing deep space mysteries.

Other Movies Mentioned: Life, Hidden Lives, and More

The brief lists other films related to themes or titles:

• Life (Prime Video): A thriller about astronauts facing an alien life form on Mars.
• A Hidden Life (Disney+ Australia): Malick’s drama focusing on an Austrian objector during World War II.
• For Life (Hulu, AcornTV): A legal drama inspired by Isaac Wright Jr.’s wrongful conviction story.
• Life As We Know It (Netflix): A rom-com about two guardians raising their orphaned goddaughter.

Actor Spotting: Depp, Cruise, Pitt, Oldman, Cage

Here are some notable actors. If you like:

• Johnny Depp: Try Dark Shadows.
• Tom Cruise & Brad Pitt: Interview with the Vampire is for you.
• Gary Oldman: Bram Stoker's Dracula is ready.
• Nicolas Cage: Vampire's Kiss shows peak Cage insanity.

Reddit and Lifeforce: A Modern Perspective

Reddit. The internet's front page. The digital town square. Ask, "Is Lifeforce worth it?" Get a range of opinions.

"Is Lifeforce Worth It on Reddit?" A Question for the Ages

"Is Lifeforce worth it?" fits perfectly on Reddit. Threads will discuss its merits, cult status, and Mathilda May's performance. Reddit thrives on debates about movies that are a bit unusual.

Reddit Addiction: Why We Keep Scrolling

This story highlights Reddit's addictive nature. What makes Reddit sticky? It’s a mix:

• Constant Variety: Reddit has news, memes, and niche hobbies. Boredom? Not here.
• Niche Communities: Find any interest. There’s a subreddit for it. You feel understood and validated here.
• Social Validation: Upvotes give a dopamine rush. Internet points feel real. Reddit gamifies engagement.
• Interaction: Discuss, share, and debate. Reddit is built for conversation, connecting social creatures.

These factors create a cycle of checking back for new content and craving social validation. This is why it gets labeled as addictive.

Reddit Demographics: Who's Redditing?

Reddit skews younger. In the US, 18 to 29-year-olds are most active. Almost half of this age group uses Reddit. The average user is around 23. Thus, it’s driven by millennials and Gen Z.

Reddit's Purpose: Share, Discuss, Connect

Reddit's main purpose is to give a platform for users to:

• Share Content: Links, texts, images, videos – collect diverse content.
• Participate in Discussions: Engage in comment threads, debates, and AMAs.
• Connect: Find communities by interests or identities. Reddit helps you find your people, even if they are strangers.

All under "subreddits," communities built around specific topics.

Reddit's Independence: Not a Subsidiary

For trivia fans, Reddit is independent. It is not part of Condé Nast or Advanced Publications anymore. It stands alone with its board and financial control. So Reddit operates on its own algorithm.

Miscellaneous Lifeforce Lore: Chocolate Cream Soldiers?

Lastly, a fun random tidbit: "chocolate cream soldier." This phrase appears in the "miscellaneous" section. It symbolizes delicacy and high society. It also suggests maturity and knowledge as seen in the Bluntschli character. He chooses chocolate creams over ammunition. Does this relate to Lifeforce? Probably not directly. But it fits in the tapestry of Lifeforce's weirdness. Or maybe it’s just random.

So there you have it. Lifeforce: a movie, a concept, and a Reddit topic. Explore it if you dare. Just avoid any alluring space travelers you might meet.