The Keep Review - Off The Shelf Reviews 

Would love to see the 3 and a half hour version. Love Alberta Watson.

Michael Mann was asked a question about this film in an interview and was so annoyed that he ended up cutting the interview short. It's almost like he's completely embarrassed about making it nowadays... has almost disowned it and would prefer to wipe it off his directorial CV. Some good actors in this like McKellen and Byrne before they became internationally famous....its got flaws, but I think it's a decent watch if you like sci-fi horror.

My late father loved this movie, and I remember watching many dark fantasy, horror and science fiction with him, and after trying to watch The Keep I felt for the first time an uneasiness that it still with me today. There is just something about this film....

Glenn, McKellen, and Prochnow still kicking it in their 80s. Good stuff

Excellent movie. Tangerine Dreams soundtrack set it off to perfection.

I could see this as the fantasy alternative to Dune as far as a VERY ambitious 80s epic that was totally mishandled and NEEDS a remake as much as Dune

In the book, it is not a 'pipe' thing, but a sword blade. Glenn attaches it to the cross/hilt to activate it. And he only trapped the demon so he could stay immortal; killing the demon expends all the energy which was also keeping Glenn immortal. The book is quite good and well worth a read.

I always felt there was something quite awesome about this movie, despite it's many flaws. I think it was a combination of the cinematography - from those opening super-close up shots on burning cigarettes and the like to the foggy landscapes of the Keep itself - and the dialogue between the regular army and SS officers which you guys mentiond, that caught my attention mostly. Some great lines in there, such a pitty that even the sound mixing is so poor you can barely hear half the words they say. I remember there was a bit where the SS officer was going on about how they would just keep killing the villagers until whoever was murdering their soldiers stopped, and the army captain answered - "but what if IT doesn't care? What - if it is LIKE YOU?" Chilling stuff.

Jurgen Prochnow and Gabriel Byrne make this movie worth watching.

I wish the "magical talisman" in the movie looked more like an ancient artifact instead of just looking like a silver flashlight.

I remember renting this movie in the late 80's. I watched it and thought that even though it wasn't a great horror/suspense movie, it was ok. learning from you guys about it being a development nightmare I wish I could see the un-cut version!

What I remember from the book, ending the darkness also ends the light. Glaeken was the symbol of light. He could remove this evil from the world, but he would go too. He loved life and wanted to keep living, so he couldn't kill Molasar. He sealed Molasar into the Keep and kept on living his long life. When Molasar escapes, he realizes it's time to do what he always should've done

I watch this film at least once a year, more if I can. If I see Tangerine Dream as the soundtrack for any movie I watch it on the premise that the choice for them as soundtrack is an indication that the movie is going to be good.

I saw this in the theater as a kid, loved it and I'm still looking for a DVD copy all these years later.

Dad took me to the drive in on this one and as a kid it was a trip. Very memorable and people I’d end up seeing a lot in later films.

Made me a Scott Glenn fan for life. He rocked it!!

Here's the thing, what is in the movie (sfx aside) is fucking great, a director's cut would be awesome to fill in the gaps but Paramount did a real hatchet job on this movie, so just appreciate what we got.....but a blu-ray would be nice.

I loved the novel and I still have a copy. BTW The Keep is a first part of a series of books.

This was another video store box staple I was intrigued by as a kid but didn’t see until late teen years. I’ve revisited it since and really enjoy it in spite of the issues it faced. I still think the music, locations, cinematography and overall vibe is pretty damn memorable. Among so much other footage,that pan-out shot when those Nazi rascals first remove the block and peer into that immense chamber, and it just keeps panning out and down is seared into my memory. It’s an amputated mess but something about this film stays with me. I don’t know if the lost footage would have helped tremendously but it’s still a shame that circumstances happened the way they did. Now I gotta find a copy of this one. No way there’s not a fan-rip dvd somewhere out there. Anyway, cheers fellas! Always look forward to your videos. You guys rule!

Yeah,, they fkkked up by never releasing a "director's cut" of this movie!! I think I remember hearing (or reading) somewhere, that they didn't preserve (or even at all retain) any of the extra footage that was shot for it. So basically,, there's NO chance of them even trying to at this point.... What a damn SHAME!!😔 (Great review guys!!👍)

I remember this when it came out on VHS...CIC video I think ( yeah that's how long ago I saw it ), it was nothing spectacular and then I found the book. I preferred the book.

That moment you randomly come across a review channel (of an amazing film I randomly flicked onto one night after a few jd'n'cokes) and scroll through their content and realise I'll be spending alot more time here gentleman 😀 thank you

I loved this movie. My friends and I talked about what was really going on and what it meant. Then I found out it was a book, part of a series, and eagerly read it. I still think my friends and I had far more interesting concepts than the author, who wanted to go so deep it became shallow.

Never watched this but I have heard of it, but while watching the review it reminded me of Deathwatch (2002)

I saw this in the late 80's on VHS and although I enjoyed it, it was obviously very disjointed. Thank God I read the book after seeing the movie, because the book is amazing! Let's hope the remake gets closer to the author's original version - especially all the vampiric overtones. They could even go all the way and turn it into a full-blown vampire movie, as in the novel the demon is basically Dracula on steroids! Fingers crossed.....

Finally saw this bout ten year back. All over the shop but kinda loved it. The talent involved n the off / weirdness of it bein cut to shreds. A wonderful n fascinating artifact. Good pick chaps. Top buzz as always. Cheers fellas

Years ago, I watched The Keep, having noticed it was directed by Michael Mann. I stopped after 10-15 minutes because I found the music and the pacing too off-putting. Now, after seeing this great review, I wish I had finished it. That creature looks badass.

Adding more comments. I recall the game commercials. I wanted it because I was (am) a nerd, but the 'rents were like, NO. Here's Monopoly instead (or some such popular game). I have no clue how the game ties in with the movie, but I'd love to see. The movie grabbed me with our seasoned Army officer just walking through the expanse of the Keep. You get a feeling of how large it is, but it was the tunnel sequence where they dollied back and back and back seemlessly it appeared to show the tiny light in the dark chasm. Made my back shiver at how epic this was going to be. Mann was a genius. I wish the 3 hour version was lurking around.

Great Review Guys of one of my favourite Films of all time, you have clearly done your homework. You can still see a version with the ending where Alberta Watson goes down into The Keep and finds Glenn. It is such a shame that we cant have a proper Blu Ray release with all the extra footage on it. However there is an unofficial Dvd release which is very good quality on Amazon by an Australian firm called Via Vision and its really good. Keep up the good work . Love your Reviews Ken

Was never a huge fan of ‘The Keep’ (though the visuals look nice) but the Tangerine Dream soundtrack is sweet even if it can overwhelm the dialogue occasionally.

I just saw a documentary on the making of this film and wondered if Gary and Iain had watched The Keep. I have never seen it. I am excited that the film is getting reviewed by OTSR. 😀

It's the weakest Michael Mann movie but it's not director fault. A few weeks ago F. Paul Wilson informed that it's gonna be a new adaptation of The Keep. Directed by Greg Nicotero.

This film has a lot in common with The Hungar. They're both kind of arty horror films.

Mann was forced to leave the best parts of the film on the cutting room floor, blame the studio. The story is also a prequel to F.P. Wilson's entire Repairman Jack saga, and noteworthy for that reason, unfortunately this edit doesn't tell much of that story about Glæken.

One of the best soundtracks of that era!

I first watched The Keep on pirated VHS in the early 90s, and now have to make do with the rough, low res Amazon version. Amazingly, my twelve year old is a huge fan of the movie, and loves the Tangerine Dream soundtrack.

The novel by F. Paul Wilson is amazing. One of my favorite books of all time. As a matter of fact, the Rasalom books (except The touch) are awesome.

This one somehow slipped by me in the 80s. It looks like it had a ton of potential. Thanks for another one, guys!

Saw this on VHS when it first released on video. Haven't seen it in decades.

Interesting to hear there's a remake on the cards.

G.B. : SCREAMS Me: AGAIN! AGAIN! G.B.: SCREAMS Me: AGAIN! AGAIN!

A curate's egg; mostly bad, but the good bits are excellent. I love it, and love the fact that your reviewed this classic movie. If only Mann would repent and allow a proper reissue, and if only we could see the longer version too. I can dream.

You should review “The Crimson Rivers” (2000) and its sequel (2004).

A very proud 1000th like guys. Always a pleasure.

Never watched this movie, it have a cool concept and not bad production, but the flaws are noticeable, im happy with the review even if look interesting im not sure if i would watch it myself

Man these are the reviews I come here for! Those obscure but worthwhile watches. Can't wait to watch this one!

It's such a terrible, terrible, TERRIBLE shame this never got a DVD release due to Michael Manns decision.

I read the book before they made the movie. It's pretty close although the 'darkness' is nothing like what the written words had me imagine. On another note: The beginning of Captain America - First Avenger seemed to be inspired by this during the acquisition of the Tesseract from the Church.

All the vehicles were spot on accurate for the time but sadly apart from the SS personnel carrier. Tangerine dream were notorious for being slow in music production on films like 'Risky Business' and 'Legend'.

I thought this was a narratively sound movie, mainly because the tone was successfully established early on and maintained throughout consistently. It's a very engrossing experience if you're in the mood for it. The only real problems I had with it were that both the length of the movie, and the demons arms, were far too short. That Mann hates it so much makes me speculate how great his 3 hr cut must be.

I remember being so excited to learn that this film had been made. The book was grand. Sadly, what we got was a disappointment. There was so much potential. A great cast, an intriguing story. A renowned effects expert. This could have been an outstanding film. Instead we got a shadow of this. Fair Play to the fans who may give this film a second chance as a Cult Classic. Good for you guys. Instead of remaking Batman, for the umpteenth time, remake more films that failed first time.

1/19/2023 2:47am NYS USA time 👍👍

The book fills in the gaps that you point out. The story elements from the book mostly make it to the film. Glad to hear a remake is happening.

I'm only aware of this movie at all, because a guy we knew in the late 90s just would not stop telling us how amazing it was. We watched a lot of classic war movies with him, so we could not wait to see this thing. On paper it certainly has the elements of a great cult classic film as well as great actors, but we were underwhelmed to say the least and I had completely forgotten the plot and reveal of the demon etc. He told us couldn't find the movie for sale anywhere, so had rented and kept it and paid Blockbuster or whoever for the replacement cost. I think if the buildup had not been so over the top, we might have appreciated it on some level, but no it is not a great film. Nice review, gents.

I recalled this movie from my high school (grad in 86) days, but didn't recall the entire thing. I swear in my head Donald Sotherland (sp wrong prolly) played the Nazi soldier. I hunted down the book on the Ohio Digital Library, checked it out, and didn't finish it in time so when I got a "12 week hold time" I debated, went F-it, and bought the Amazon version (which is what the Library uses but not sure their policies at how they get the circulation copy). I've read up to chapter 15, but still the movie danced in my head and so I went hunting on Prime and found they had it for 12.99 purchase and 3.99ish rental. After thinking overnight, I rented it, and I do not regret it. But I watched and grew confused with the time jumps and the deviations from the book (like Madga to Eva, no books, more backstory between our two German commanders of disgust with each other over a previous event prior to the book setting...). I was reading the Trivia that Prime offers you and read that Mann was frustrated at not being able to have the special effects he wanted because of the studio so I gave forgiveness, but I am still a bit confused having watched it so I YT searched and the algorithm gave me you as a top vid. Thank you for helping me understand all the gaps and to know I am not crazy. I look forward to finishing the book, and if I want to go rewatch, Prime offers me 46 hours to---not sure if I want to or not. I think renting it was the best choice as I have more fantasies in my purchased list on Prime than horror (if Interview with the Vampire and Queen of the Damned can be counted as horror). I mean one of my movies is Flight of Dragons with James Earl Jones :D Thank you for reviewing this and helping a poor mom know her brain fog isn't that deep! D.

The book is good. The film gives some nice visuals and performances to the story if you know it before you watch the film

I read this book when I was about 12 and never knew there was a movie until I just found your video.

You lads are my favorite review channel by far. Criminally underrated too. Any chance you know where to find this film?

Loved the book, and must have seen the film on a rented VHS back in the early 80s. Although the film was a bit too cheap and clumsy to do the story justice, i can still remember scenes 40 years later!

I found this flick just last year! I love the Never Forget T-shirt, so much👍

I like this film, a lot. It helps if you've read the book. Probably a lot of Mann's cut-out plot can be found there. Actually, the novel, at times, over-explains a bit. I like the book, too, though... Scott Glenn's character had actually built the place, in fact. I'm not sure if that's explained in the film or not.

man , i remember when this film was almost IMPOSSIBLE to own. i have about 3 copies. VHS , 2nd , bootleg ,differnt version VHS version , & on disk. A copy from Cable , & a copy of the Japanese laserdisk print. Killer FX

I kind of want to see the Director's Cut now, doubt that even if Mann could, he'd ever want to release it though. The Last of the Mohicans, however, has in my eyes the most memorable soundtrack together with Vangelis' Blade Runner soundtrack ❤

A 3.5 hour cut is indulgent especially for a non proven director. We often blame the suits at the studio but sometimes the creatives are obstinately selfish and dumb too. 😂

Jurgen has one of the best names EVER.

Thanks guys.

Smoke joint demon was my favorite effect.

Oh yeah this is an undersung favorite of mine. It had problems and Mann isn't happy with it...but it coulda been GREAT instead of just odd and great. Would love to have a decent Director's Cut. The book is ok, won't be re-reading it though.

Saw this movie on HBO as a teenager in the early 90's It was a good watch. after all these years its still interesting although saddening because you can see what it could have been.

didn't notice it is thursday, already...good, more of off the shelf :D i want a signed shirt with the phrase "the story follooowws!!..." 😛❤

Filmed in the Black Mountains in Wales

Lots of love my lads! 👊

A truly troubled shoot, however still a...."unique" movie, almost an interesting watch with patience. It's kind of all over the place. A stylish / 80s horror almost a music video from MTV. Agreed, it is much like "The Golem" type of spirit. "Tangerine Dream" Is a fantastic band.

There you are guys!

This movie needs a Blu-Ray, stat!

The movie was really cut to hell. The good thing that the movie did for me is it got me to read the book it is based on by F. Paul Wilson. The book is awesome. Also, the book kicks off a universe wherein several books by the author take place in (The Adversary Cycle). I am sad that none of the other books were made into movies, especially Nightworld. I highly recommend the series. The book "Reprisal" was disturbing to me.

I read the book and saw it in the theatre when I was a teenager.I love The Keep and bought the CD soundtrack.

I got this on DVD a few years ago.

Over 2k views in just over 12 hours 👏 👏 nice. Great review

My initial take was that the monster inside was the Jewish God "Jehovah" and the angel was "Lucifer." But the story wasn't that epic... The film initially really seemed intruiging, but the final product didn't sit well with me.

The studios recutting of the film was actually totally unnecessary as Mann always intended to release a final cut that would have been around 2+ hours. The version the studio saw 3+ hours was only a rough cut that all filmmakers make to give a rough idea. The suits who saw the rough cut where so stupid they thought it was what Mann wanted to release and panicked. No wonder Michael Mann was so p####d of.

I loved the film the visuals and soundtrack are outstanding shame the film company cut it to shreds

Fun fact - Scott Glenn is not getting past German but Romanian soldiers in the forest... and one of the is played by Bruce Payne 🙂

Thank you for reviewing this obscure childhood favorite of mine. I read the book and the reason Glaeken (sorry if i'm misspelling his name) didn't destroy Mollessar (sorry...) at first is because Glaeken wanted to be immortal at first. He was afraid that if Mollessar was killed then he would also die because the whole reason for his extended life was to be a counter to Mollessar's threat. What ended up happening was that Glaeken didn't die immediately but simply became mortal once Mollessar was killed. It really was a good backstory. They were both from the lost civilization of Atlantis and had been battling throughout the millennia. It was in the Dark Ages during the Black Death that Glaeken trapped Mollessar in the keep and the events of the book (and movie) pick up about 600 years later. The movie should have been better but i'll always be impressed by how awesome the villain monster looked. Many would disagree with me but that's the way i feel. (Edit) It has been years since i read the book so don't quote me about the 'Atlantis' thing, i just vaguely remember the book mentioning it.

24:40 When Gary talks about malasar looking at the cross like "What's that." 💀💀💀 Also *Turn up*

A remake yes thank you, I love this flaws and all.

Great soundtrack.

I watched this about 30 years ago and I'm sure I remember a huge fire fight between the evil thingy and the SS soldiers. Bullets everywhere, rockets, the whole shebang. Was there a less cut down version that made it onto TV in the past?

Holy moly this looks awesome, never heard of it. So many strange late 70s early 80s sci fi.

I taped this in the 90s. Fascinating, like a dream, no doubt losing half the runtime helped that. Book was better but didn’t have the dreamy atmosphere of the film. Would love to see the full cut but suspect it would still be massively compromised.

I don't care how crappy the effects are in this, it sure beats CGI. BTW I have always loved this movie.

Is my dude wearing a shirt emblazoned with his own nightmarish Warholien face x 4? That's the impression I left with shortly after a good chuckle and a lol shit post

Panos Cosmatos directing a remake of The keep, using the original three hour plus script, given the same budget and studio backing of the Dune remake!!!! Just picture it.

I was watching the 35mm 4k print and I would love to see the full uncut version of this movie. All we got is this awful cut version. The studio must release the full movie no matter how. Even on DVD if they have it.

There's a high quality upload on internet archive.

I'll check this one out and especially the remake! Hopefully the remake will be as good or better! When the remake is released, hope you guys review that one too!

Not only a great film (what we ended up with, thanks Paramount) but it also has Rik Mayall as a Nazi soldier!!!

Damn, I think this is the youngest I've seen Gandalf.

Thats really cool its getting remade,the basis of this movie i really enjoy and it definetly is my vibe.

Good review as usual. With that cast it could have been such a good movie. I'm just wondering how and why Iain keeps popping up in 80's movies where you totally don't expect him. Does he have a time-travel device?