Link (1986) Review ​

 An American student takes a summer job at a doctor's cliffside seaside house where he keeps apes; however, she finds herself trapped and in danger when one of the apes, due for destruction, turns bad.

A young Elisabeth Shue, as Jane Chase, effectively carries the film along with the lead chimp Imp (Jed) and antagonist killer ape Link, played by Locke, an Orangutan (dyed black). Terence Stamp's screen time is limited; however, he leaves a lasting impression as the cavalier Dr. Steven Phillip.

The cliffside house setting and locations give the film a distinctive atmosphere. Director Richard Franklin delivers plenty of ape action, capturing both their intelligence and strength. There's a nice touch with an early intuitive computer that allows further communication between the apes and their human counterparts. This comes into play, injecting anxiety into the closing act. The blood is limited, and the body count is low. There’s some brief nudity and Franklin's focus is on Link as a thriller rather than a horror.

Also to Franklin's credit, the apes do their own performances; there doesn't appear to be any people in suits, and made in 1986, it thankfully predates CGI. Lapses in continuity (possibly due to cut scenes or editing) tarnish some of Shue's reactions. The soundtrack is fitting, but surprisingly, Jerry Goldsmith's Gremlin-like score mars some of the atmosphere, on occasion dampening the tension and suspense. Kevin Lloyd's Bailey is memorable, even if his appearance is fleeting. The final act where David, Jane's boyfriend (played by Steven Pinner) and two friends arrive makes for a few shocks. In addition, the ending has a satisfying subtle eerie visual twist that can be easily missed.

What's impressive, unintentionally or not, is the ambiguity of writers Lee David Zlotoff, Tom Ackermann, and Everett De Roche's offering, as it raises some questions around Link's history; the demise of Phillip and Imp's role throughout.

Overall, underrated Link is an effective enough thriller, recommended certainly for the apes and Shue's performance.