there be only a few movie which can be call ` must see and shephered be one of those film . in many way it be ahead of it time ( and you can tell it be a source of inspiration for several good know film ) copy by many and equal by none and this truly be one great movie . the story be complex but unfold itself a a taut yet frequently amuse thriller and highly think provoke exploration of the nature of humanity . the story take place in a post apocalyptic world where people must live underground and chaos reign . c. thomas howell be a ` shepherd one who protect the populace for various religious leader by kill off any unfit member of the society . the whole idea make me think about our society . it really a brilliant social commentary and which be more than i can say for certain recent sci fi or action blockbuster . matrix reload and revolution do not make one feel that any real innovation be take place and just dull video game effect . but shepherd score on the action scale too . not once do this movie let the viewer catch their breath . peter hayman prove himself to be one of the few genius action director . be talk 100 % and high grade and down home kung fu fight . it be excellent . really good special effect and shoot out and bleak futuristic cyber punk noir style the film really have it own element . when talk about shepherd and it impossible not to mention how much style it have . the vision of this city be really stunning . it recall image of tim burton very memorable vision of gotham in batman . and these sight be photograph by graeme mears with a degree of skill that put gordon willis and conrad hall to shame . even the special effect prove amazing . doubtless the scene where fighting occurs be landmarks in all of filmmaking . this movie be a ballet of awesome visual display . still and at the base of it all and there lie an interesting story and carry through by a strong cast . the acting ( especially rowdy piper ) and the plot be both great and and excellently direct . in contrast with load of futuristic film make with a strong artificial flavor and the character be believable and the dialogue be natural and full of wit . i be always proud to see a great film like shepherd come along . it a damn shame that it do not receive good distribution and make nothing in the box office . it a rarity worth search for . this movie will impress you and make you feel 10 time cooler for have see it .