APPLE, THE

"The Apple" is a 1980 science fiction musical film boasting a vibrant and imaginative journey into an extraordinary dystopian future. Directed by Menahem Golan, this cult classic stars Catherine Mary Stewart and George Gilmour who bring life to their characters with captivating energy.

Catherine Mary Stewart plays Bibi, a charismatic young singer, and George Gilmour portrays Alphie, her songwriter boyfriend. Together, they are a talented music duo from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. As the film opens, we find the duo in a futuristic 1994, competing in the Worldvision Song Festival, which is broadcast globally via satellite.

This world is dominated by BIM (Boogalow International Music), a powerful and manipulative corporation that controls the music industry. The omnipotence of BIM is represented by Mr. Boogalow (Vladek Sheybal) and his assistant Shake (Ray Shell), who are a fascinating study in villainy, embodying the handling and exploitation of talent within the music industry.

As the story progresses, Alphie and Bibi are swept up into the glamorous yet toxic world of fame and riches that BIM promises. Bibi is seduced by the glitz and glamour of stardom and becomes a pop sensation overnight. However, Alphie isn't so easily swayed and worries about the moral compromise they are making to achieve their dreams. He perceives the dark side of this glittering fame that is slowly eroding their innocent love and consuming Bibi's essence.

"The Apple" is not just a narrative, but a symbolic representation of the battle between good and evil, innocence and corruption, authenticity and artifice. It uses music as a powerful medium to express the conflict and emotional turmoil that the characters experience.

The film’s unforgettable original songs are interspersed throughout the narrative, moving the plot forward while also setting the tone for the movie. Ranging from catchy pop tunes and disco-era anthems, to melodious ballads and powerful rock songs, the music in "The Apple" represents the broad spectrum of styles prevalent in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

The movie has a distinctly vibrant visual aesthetic to match its daring musical score. The futuristic setting is depicted with an explosion of colors, over-the-top costumes, and an overall aesthetic that feels extravagantly decadent yet dystopian at the same time. Golan doesn't hesitate in presenting the dystopian future filled with fascinatingly flashy sets, exaggerated fashions, and futuristic props.

The performances by Catherine Mary Stewart and George Gilmour are noteworthy. As Bibi, Stewart perfectly captures the vulnerability, innocence, and determination of a young woman caught up in the ruthless world of show business. Gilmour, on the other hand, brings depth to Alphie, effectively portraying his struggles as he fights against the corrupt system to save the woman he loves. Vladek Sheybal and Ray Shell also impress as the menacingly charming antagonists, subtly parodying the exploitation rampant in the entertainment industry.

"The Apple" is a film that confidently takes risks. It pushes the boundaries at every turn while unfolding a captivating story about the trials and tribulations in the world of music. The movie combines a stark warning about corporate control and the loss of freedom, with heart-pounding music and flashy visuals, creating an experience that is both stirring and entertaining. "The Apple" has thus cemented its position as a cult classic in the genre of musical science fiction, viewed as an extravagant and audacious portrayal of a future where music makes the rules and breaks them too.

Through its alluring combination of music, romance, and science fiction, "The Apple" brings to its audience a bold, unique, and thoroughly enjoyable cinematic experience. It serves not just as a testament to the creative risks taken in filmmaking during the 1980s but also stands as an enduring commentary on the music industry and the lure of fame.