Cast
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Michael Moriarty
as Jimmy Quinn
Candy Clark
as Joan
David Carradine
as Shepard
Richard Roundtree
as Powell
James Dixon
as Lt. Murray
Malachy McCourt
as Commissioner
Fred J. Scollay
as Capt. Fletcher
Peter Hock
as Det. Clifford
Ron Cey
as Det. Hoberman
Mary Louise Weller
as Mrs. Pauley
Bruce Carradine
as The Victim
John Capodice
as Doyle
Tony Page
as Webb
Larkin Ford
as Curator
Larry Pine
as The Professor
Crew
Director
- Larry Cohen
Writer
- Larry Cohen
Producer
- Larry Cohen
Reviews
Wuchak
***Amusing Big City monster flick featuring Quetzalcoatl***
As two Manhattan detectives (David Carradine and Richard Roundtree) investigate deaths linked to Aztecan ritual a huge winged serpent begins preying on citizens. A piano-playing street thug (Michael Moriarty) claims to know where its nest is located and makes a deal with the authorities. Could the beast be Quetzalcoatl?
Larry Cohen’s "Q" (1982), aka “Q: The Winged Serpent,” is a Grade B creature feature with a wink of humor. Imagine “Wolfen” (1981) if it wasn’t so artsy and didn’t take itself so seriously, albeit with a different monster, and you’d have a good picture of “Q.”
Moriarty cops a serious Bill Burr vibe as the two-bit hood while Carradine & Roundtree seem to be enjoying themselves as tough Big City investigators. Speaking of the city, this is a great way to view New York City in the early 80s. Unfortunately, Cohen drops the ball in the female department as he doesn’t know how to take advantage of the feminine resources and opportunities (and I’m not tawkin’ bout nudity or sleaze, just effective photography of women).
Nevertheless, the flick’s entertaining and shouldn’t be as obscure as it is.
It runs 1 hour, 33 minutes, and was shot in Manhattan with focus on the Chrysler Building.
GRADE: B/B-
Nov 15, 2019
CinemaSerf
This could have been so much better if the casting were not so dreadful. As it is, it's only a passable adventure that sees two cops - David Carradine and Richard Rowntree on the case of a murderer who ruthlessly decapitates his victims - usually whilst they are seemingly impregnable on a rooftop, or somewhere equally lofty. Meantime, "Quinn" (Michael Moriarty) is trying to stay one step ahead of some folks he owes money too, and whilst hiding atop the Empire State Building, happens upon something startling! As the killings intensify, and sightings of a strange creature are reported to the police, he does a deal with them to reveal what might just be it's nest. The story is fine - but there are just way few appearances from our mysterious beastie, and the plot is also cluttered up with some Inca ritualim too. When we do see "Q" - well Ray Harryhausen it isn't. It has a cheap version of the "Hammer" look to it, and the acting and dialogue are no better. It's rated 'X', but I suspect that is because there is some nudity, there is nothing at all remotely scary to see here.
Apr 4, 2022
Thematic Analysis
This Crime/Horror/Mystery film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Q presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Larry Cohen brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1982, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Q took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 172 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Q shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ms .45, which focuses more on action than character development, Q subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like 15 Minutes and The Curse of the Jade Scorpion explore similar territory, Q stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 8, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 33m
Where to Watch
