Hell Squad

The 1985 film Hell Squad is an action-packed, B-movie spectacle that has carved out a peculiar niche for itself in the world of 80's exploitation cinema. Directed by the enigma that is Kenneth Hartford, and starring Bainbridge Scott, Glen Hartford, and Tina Lederman, Hell Squad sets the stage for a unique blend of action and campiness that will keep audience members on their toes throughout its runtime.

Set against the eclectic backdrop of Las Vegas, Hell Squad kicks off with an attention-grabbing spectacle designed to catch the viewers' eye. The protagonists, a group of Vegas showgirls, prepare for their routine evening performance, oblivious to the adrenaline-fuelled journey that awaits them. Bainbridge Scott stands out as their leader, possessing a commanding presence that seems at odds with her glamourous day job.

The story truly begins when one of the showgirls' sons, portrayed convincingly by Glen Hartford, is kidnapped by a group of middle eastern terrorists. Their goal is nothing less than negotiating the release of their comrades - an attempt that kickstarts the journey of our heroines from showgirls to commandos. The group embarks on a rescue mission, trading in their glitzy costumes for combat uniforms. United by a common cause, they undergo an intensive training regime under a seasoned war veteran to prepare for their daring mission.

The performances of Bainbridge Scott, Tina Lederman, and the other actresses must be appreciated for their commitment to their roles. Despite the movie's low-budget constraints and eccentric script, they maintain a consistency in character development. Fascinatingly, among the unlikely band of heroines, viewers can find a compelling mixture of strong will, courage, and a touch of comedy.

The stark contrast between the dazzling world of Las Vegas show business and the harsh reality of guerrilla warfare provides the backbone of Hell Squad's plot. By capturing this juxtaposition, the director, Kenneth Hartford, endeavors to entertain viewers through various hues of drama, marked beautifully by moments of significant transition. The action sequences, though replete with the quirkiness typical of ‘80s B-movies are yet engaging, showcasing a rawness and intensity that brings an added layer of realism to the overall narrative.

The movie finds its strength in its oddities. The decision to place showgirls in the middle of a gritty warzone scenario is outlandish, making the film an intriguing watch ensnared in bizarre amusement. The execution might not always be flawless, and the plot points may sometimes border on the farcical, but these 'flaws' add to Hell Squad's cult appeal. It's eccentric, outlandish, and packed with unexpected twists – a combination that works harmoniously within the set-up of the narrative.

The supporting cast also deserves a mention for their impactful performances. Each character in Hell Squad, no matter how small their role, contributes to the bigger picture, thus maintaining a strong ensemble cast. Glen Hartford, in particular, is compelling in his role, delivering a performance that provides pivotal plot movement.

Hell Squad's technical aspects were typical of its production era, with sound effects, music, and visual effects that perfectly encapsulated the aura of '80s adventure films. The cinematography and editing often took creative liberties that today might be considered cheeky or unorthodox.

Overall, Hell Squad stands as an epitome of the offbeat charm and spur-of-the-moment creativity characteristic of ‘80s B-movie cinema. Despite its unconventional plot, exaggerated characters, and sometimes over-the-top execution, the film successfully manages to offer wholesome entertainment. Hell Squad is indeed a spectacle one would lovingly deem a camp classic, aligning perfectly with the cult flavor of exploitation films from this golden era. Through the unique narrative journey of glitz, glamor, and gunfire, the viewers are served an unforgettable cinematic extravaganza that continues to provoke discussion among B-movie enthusiasts worldwide. If you are a fan of oddball cinema, this film is definitely one for your watchlist.