Above average entry in this series is a prequel, set in WWII Berlin as puppet master Andre Toulon (Guy Rolfe) is sought out by the Nazis. They're trying in vain to reanimate dead soldiers, and are intrigued by his ability to create puppets that move without strings. The sinister Major Kraus (Richard Lynch) murders Andres' wife Elsa (Sarah Douglas), and Andre escapes Nazi captivity to hide out and plan his revenge. Carrying out Andres' dirty work will be his family of puppets: Tunneller, Pinhead, and new creations such as Six Shooter (a six armed cowboy), Ms. Leech, and Blade.
"Toulon's Revenge" benefits from better than usual production values; it looks like a reasonable chunk of money was spent on this prequel. At the core is an entertaining, involving, if familiar story, with Andre the kind of guy for whom you do feel sorry. David DeCoteaus' direction actually isn't bad, and he gets good performances out of this well chosen cast. David Allens' effects are still very impressive, and the puppet characters are quite memorable, especially Six Shooter. (You don't see much of Blade in this entry.)
Lynch is at his villainous best - you can't WAIT for this guy to get what he deserves. Ian Abercrombie is fine as the basically well meaning Dr. Hess, as is Walter Gotell as a top Nazi official. Matthew Faison and Aron Eisenberg are a fugitive father and son, and Michelle Bauer has a small role. Rolfe of "Mr. Sardonicus" fame is wonderful as Andre.
A good, fun outing from the folks at Full Moon.
Seven out of 10.
"Toulon's Revenge" benefits from better than usual production values; it looks like a reasonable chunk of money was spent on this prequel. At the core is an entertaining, involving, if familiar story, with Andre the kind of guy for whom you do feel sorry. David DeCoteaus' direction actually isn't bad, and he gets good performances out of this well chosen cast. David Allens' effects are still very impressive, and the puppet characters are quite memorable, especially Six Shooter. (You don't see much of Blade in this entry.)
Lynch is at his villainous best - you can't WAIT for this guy to get what he deserves. Ian Abercrombie is fine as the basically well meaning Dr. Hess, as is Walter Gotell as a top Nazi official. Matthew Faison and Aron Eisenberg are a fugitive father and son, and Michelle Bauer has a small role. Rolfe of "Mr. Sardonicus" fame is wonderful as Andre.
A good, fun outing from the folks at Full Moon.
Seven out of 10.