DR. OTTO AND THE RIDDLE OF THE GLOOM BEAM (1986 USA)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 2.8|5.0 Starsìì

Dr. Otto and the Riddle of the Gloom Beam—highly creative—seems at first glance as a ‘drop in the bucket’ film, but as the movie progresses one sees that the script analyzes life in a humorous and especially observant manner that everyone can relate to. Jim Varney uses his typical low-budget tactics to create this film, but the Varney lovability is there in full measure.

Storyline

Dr. Otto desires to control the world.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director John R. Cherry III for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Jerry Carden and John R. Cherry III for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Dr. Otto/Rudd Hardtact/Laughin’ Jack/Guy Dandy/Auntie Nelda/Ernest P. Worrell (Jim Varney), Otto’s Head Hand (Glenn Petach), Lance (Myke R. Mueller), Doris (Jackie Welch), Slave Willie/Kegler (Daniel Butler), Tina (Esther Huston), Rhonda Sue (Tina Goetze), Monique (Jennifer Wood), Bank President Rutherford (David Landon), V.P. #1 (Mac Bennett), Lance’s Dad (Winslow Stillman), Lance’s Mom (Mary Jane Harvill), Herr Vonschnick (Irv Kane), Mme. Vonschnick (Leslie Potter), Man at Autoteller (Bill Middleton), Woman at Autoteller (Nancy Alderson), and Checkout Girl (Bonnie Keen).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. The inspiration is there and the multiple personalities Jim Varney plays add to the interest of the film.

Ben Meyers