I will say without apology that most 80's movies that are period, fantasy, horror, sci-fi, or anything similar are pure garbage. This film is anything but! Let's break it down by details:
First, the acting. I won't say it was remarkable, but it certainly was above par for the time and subject matter. Julian Sands is always good as a villain, and Richard Grant always does a good job. Lori Singer was a bit weak at times, but not enough to really detract from the movie-- also quite nice to look at, and the lack of a weak romance storyline was kind of refreshing.
Next, the effects. The 80's did produce movies with better effects than this one, but they certainly weren't bad--especially for the period. I've seen things made in the new millennium that are worse.
Finally, the plot. I won't say it's scary, but the plot was certainly compelling. There were a few interesting twists here and there (especially Renferne's end), and the overall flow was well-paced and anything but dull. If you believe in magic or in God and Satan, then the kick will be even stronger.
So, you definitely want to see this at least once. It's a solid 7.5-8. Not going to win any awards, but still quite good. Praise be to God that there actually is an 80's supernatural thriller worth watching!
First, the acting. I won't say it was remarkable, but it certainly was above par for the time and subject matter. Julian Sands is always good as a villain, and Richard Grant always does a good job. Lori Singer was a bit weak at times, but not enough to really detract from the movie-- also quite nice to look at, and the lack of a weak romance storyline was kind of refreshing.
Next, the effects. The 80's did produce movies with better effects than this one, but they certainly weren't bad--especially for the period. I've seen things made in the new millennium that are worse.
Finally, the plot. I won't say it's scary, but the plot was certainly compelling. There were a few interesting twists here and there (especially Renferne's end), and the overall flow was well-paced and anything but dull. If you believe in magic or in God and Satan, then the kick will be even stronger.
So, you definitely want to see this at least once. It's a solid 7.5-8. Not going to win any awards, but still quite good. Praise be to God that there actually is an 80's supernatural thriller worth watching!