Fantasy Island (2020)

My Review

The enigmatic Mr. Roarke somehow makes the dreams of his guests come true at his remote tropical resort in “Fantasy Island.” However, when their dreams turn into nightmares, the guests must solve the mystery in order to survive. Director Jeff Wadlow (“Non-Stop” 2014) put together an overly heavy drama version of the lighter television series (1978-1984 on ABC) with bad production values, terrible writing, and mediocre performances. Wadlow co-wrote the screenplay with Chris Roach and Jillian Jacobs.

Michael Pena turned in a simply awful performance in the lead character of Mr. Roarke. It’s back to the drawing boards for Pena to find a top role in pictures. Co-stars include Maggie Q, Lucy Hale, Austin Stowell, Jimmy O. Yang, Ryan Hanson, Portia Doubleday, Michael Rooker, Robbie Jones, Kim Coates, and Ian Roberts as Dr. Torture. The unwatchable “Fantasy Island” did have some success at the box office for Columbia Pictures, Blumhouse Productions, Tower of Babel Productions, and Sony Pictures Releasing.

“Fantasy Island” was filmed in the Republic of Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean. It was nominated for five Golden Raspberry Awards – Worst Picture, Worst Supporting Actress (Hale and Q), Worst Screenplay, and Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-Off, or Sequel.