*Available for free viewing at Hulu.com
Being of my generation, I first saw Michael York as Austin Powers' boss. Seems in the 70s he was quite the adventure/scifi hunk, as Logan's Run is still fresh in my mind. Here in this movie, he is touch and go with his acting, and the critical transformation scene(s) were noticeably underwhelming and amateurish.
I can't compare this to the book or the 1996 film as I haven't read/seen them in a while, and I can't contrast it to Island of Lost Souls as I haven't seen that version yet. I love the Dr. Moreau story, and it would seem a simple translation to film in terms of choosing story elements, but the plotting of this feels very forced and as unnatural as the doctor's animal-people. The story is one that addresses many philosophical issues in an astute manner, but this movie's dialogue and plot elements do not reflect these issues, as the movie is devoid of subtext.
The most wasted role is that of Maria, as her character's interesting development (which is a plot whopper in other tellings) is completely left out. It is hinted at by her constant animal companion, but only those who know the story will pick up on that.
The makeup is amazing with the exception of the halfish job done on York. I think the creatures' eyes could have been somehow modified to be better, as I've found some of the most terrifying images in my subconscious are that of frenzied animalistic eyes with a distinctly human awareness in it, and it's the only reason I've been scared by the occasional werewolf or vampire costume design. There is pretty minimal blood in this, but a lot of questionable animal handling practices and loud growls.
Many peg this movie as horror, but it is distinctly adventure scifi, and if it scares, that is because the underlying premise of the Dr. Moreau story is a looking glass.