Back to the Future Part III - Review

"Your future is whatever you make it. So, make it a good one” – A review of Back to the Future Part III. 

The first two Back to the Future films were absolute classics. Witty, charming and full of brilliant performances and clever effects, they are beloved for good reason. In 1990, Back to the Future Part III was released, but would it be a fitting end to such a fantastic trilogy?

The film again follows Marty and Doc, picking up from where the second film left off. The DeLorean has malfunctioned, stranding Doc in the wild west of 1885, and Marty must travel back in time to rescue him. I absolutely love this setting; saloon bars, shootouts and high-speed train chases are a playful homage to the western genre. These films had always blended comedy with science fiction, but the added western element was an inventive and honestly charming addition and a refreshing pace change.

There are tonnes of memorable performances I could mention, but Christopher Lloyd’s Doc is once again a highlight for me. Known for his eccentric energy, it’s an unexpected and heartwarming experience to watch him find love. Of course, Michael J. Fox still brings wit and youthful energy to his role as Marty, and it’s so much fun to see the pair on screen together.

After the slightly darker direction of the second instalment, it’s nice to see a more light-hearted approach here. Love, friendship and destiny are all explored, which enables the trilogy to end with warmth and joy. The film also nicely ties up loose ends from the previous films but remains unique, the Western setting really helping with this, and there’s no shortage of action; the train scene is a particularly exciting moment to watch.

As with the first films, there’s plenty of humour and heart to be found, but there’s plenty of emotional resonance too, which I really appreciate. It’s a satisfying end to the trilogy and one I very much enjoyed, but I must admit it’s not without its flaws. I can’t help but think that some of the plot was just a bit predictable, which is a bit of a shame, and I do think this film slightly lacks the chaotic energy the first films have. With that said, you really can’t fault the blending of genres, the strong performances and the genuine humour and warmth that this film provides.

So, is Back to the Future Part III worth revisiting? I would honestly say yes. It may not quite reach the quality of the first two films, but it’s still full of humour, a sense of adventure and warmth which makes it a fitting end to a wonderful trilogy. If you enjoy westerns, time travel and fun, adventurous stories, I really believe that you’ll get a lot of joy out of this film, whether you’re watching for the first time or revisiting a beloved end to a wonderful trilogy.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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