Howard the Duck
Howard the Duck was released in 1986. The American science fiction comedy was directed by Willard Huyck.
The film is based on the Marvel Comics character and is starring Leah Thompson and Tim Robbins. Box office revenue was $38 million on a budget of $30-37 million.
The Movie
The plot revolves around Howard, from Duck world. An Earth-like planet inhabited by humanoid ducks.
While sitting and reading he is suddenly propelled into space and lands on Earth. He sets out on a journey to prevent unwanted dark overlords to make their way to earth.
The Cast
- Ed Gale as Howard (suit performer)
- Jordan Prentice as Howard (additional suit performer)
- Tim Rose, Steve Sleap, Peter Baird, Mary Wells and Lisa Sturz as Howard (puppeteers)
- Chip Zien as Howard’s voice
- Lea Thompson as Beverly Switzler
- Tim Robbins as Phil Blumburtt
- Jeffrey Jones as Dr. Walter Jenning
- David Paymer as Larry
- Paul Guilfoyle as Lieutenant Welker
- Liz Sagal as Ronette
- Dominique Davalos as Cal
- Holly Robinson as K.C.
- Tommy Swerdlow as Ginger Moss
- Richard Edson as Ritchie
- Miles Chapin as Carter
- Paul Comi as Dr. Chapin
- Richard McGonagle as First Cop
- Virginia Capers as Cora Mae
- Miguel Sandoval as Bar Entertainment Supervisor
- William Hall as Officer Hanson
- Richard Kiley as The Cosmos (voice)
- John Fleck as Pimples
- Brian Steele as the voice of Dark Overlords of the Universe
Video Game
A video game based on the film was released for ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Apple II, which was a failure.
Conclusion
Critical reception of the film was poor. in 1986 the film won the Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Picture, Worst Screenplay, Worst New Star, and Worst Visual Effects. The film’s failure had a negative effect on the actors and their careers onwards.