Dark and Gritty Tribute to Splatter Origins

Read Time:4 Minute, 33 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Blood Feast
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Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2016, 2024 Synapse 4K
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Marcel Walz
Writer(s): Philip Lilienschwarz, Marcel Walz
Cast: Robert Rusler, Sophie Monk, Herschell Gordon Lewis, Caroline Williams, Sadie Katz
Where To Watch: available January 16, 2024; pre-order here www.synapsefilms.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Just a fun fact before diving into the review; the original Herschell Gordon Lewis film was released July 6, 1963, at the Bellevue Drive-In in Bellevue (now Peoria), Illinois. This is only about 20 minutes from my hometown, so when it popped up that Synapse was releasing the original uncut version of the remake for the first time in the US, I had to jump on the chance to check it out! Then, I discovered that one of my favorite indie film directors, Marcel Walz, directed the remake. It's incredible how small of a world it is sometimes! And now, onto the review!

Walz’s BLOOD FEAST takes us on a journey through various locations, each adding a distinct flair to the film, crafting a narrative culminating in an incredibly powerful climax. As mentioned above, this is a remake of a '60s film by the same name; this version takes the classic terror story and blends in cinematic techniques, including some fantastic practical effects (something that I continue to appreciate in Walz’s work) with its predecessor's raw, edgy feel. It’s a daring attempt that hits some high notes, but some genre fans may not appreciate the more drama-centric world-building.

In BLOOD FEAST, the story focuses on Fuad Ramses, a character brought to life by Robert Rusler’s intense and gritty performance. When he starts working at a museum for Egyptian culture, he unintentionally stumbles upon a different world; here, he encounters the captivating statue of Ishtar, setting him on a horrifying path of murder, cannibalism, deceit, and more. Rusler's portrayal is the film's backbone, adding a grounded layer of realism to this dark, twisted tale.

The visual artistry of BLOOD FEAST is where it truly stands out. Walz's direction creates a mesmerizing blend of ancient myth and modern filmmaking, imposing in its 4K Dolby Vision format. The film’s commitment to practical effects over CGI pays homage to the original's style, adding a much-needed authenticity to the horror genre. Lewis’s original was one of the first films I ever watched of his, and while some have said it's dated, I still think it has a unique charm. This remake captures just the right amount of that with its darker yet brutal take on the film.

If I had to pick something, the film needs more character development. Rusler's character needed more room to grow, to explore the depths of his transformation from a devoted family man to a monstrous figure. However, I don’t think that takes away from the overall experience, and Walz has grown so much in that department as a filmmaker.

The film's dark cinematography and unsettling soundtrack effectively heighten the sense of horror, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. BLOOD FEAST also nods to its genre's history, acknowledging the impact of H.G. Lewis' original work. This gesture of respect, combined with the film's reflection on its place in the evolution of horror cinema, underscores the understanding (and continued additions) of his contribution to the genre.

BLOOD FEAST is an homage to the enduring appeal of the horror genre. It showcases a way of honoring the legacy of horror pioneers while carving out its own identity. Emerging as a curious piece in the horror genre, BLOOD FEAST is a visually striking tribute to a genre classic and one that I’m happy to have in my collection. It's a film that will interest those fascinated by horror history and gore, serving as a modern interpretation of a trailblazing film and reminding viewers of the genre's evolution and diversification.

Bonus Materials
Indiegogo promotional trailer
Theatrical trailer
'Making of' featurette
Chilli Con Curtis 'Tonite' – Music Video
BLOOD FEAST – Red Carpet Premiere 2018
BLOOD FEAST – Scare Cam
English SDH Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing

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[photo courtesy of SYNAPSE, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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