Punk Rock Meets Evangelism in Cinematic Blend

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MOVIE REVIEW
Salvation! (Salvation!: Have You Said Your Prayers Today?)
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 1987, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 20m
Director(s): Beth B
Writer(s): Beth B, Tom Robinson
Cast: Stephen McHattie, Dominique Davalos, Exene Cervenka, Viggo Mortensen
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: SALVATION! is a vibrant journey back to the pulsating heart of the 1980s, a decade known for its exuberance and excesses. Under Beth B’s bold direction, the film emerges as a vivid satire that cleverly critiques the era while celebrating its unique style. With a backdrop of eclectic music and cultural motifs, it's like a dance through time with a critical eye. Satire connects with me at such a core level, especially when it's done with such a straight face like this. I don’t think I had ever seen a film by Beth B before this year, and I’ve now seen quite a few thanks to various restoration projects. These films, while almost all unique, all have such powerful messages.

Beth B's SALVATION! is a cinematic concoction blending the raw edge of indie filmmaking with the polished sheen of the MTV era. The narrative takes us through the morally ambiguous world of televangelism, a theme that resonates more profoundly considering the real-life scandals of the time and even the present day. In an early role, Viggo Mortensen delivers a raw and intense performance as Jerome Stample, a laid-off factory worker, providing a glimpse into his future potential as an actor. His journey intertwines with Stephen McHattie's portrayal of a dubious televangelist, Reverend Edward Randall, weaving a morally complex tale.

The film’s casting adds an intriguing dimension to its narrative. Punk musician Exene Cervenka, from the band X, plays Jerome's wife, Rhonda Stample, who is aspiring to spiritual TV stardom. Her inclusion bridges the gap between the anarchic energy of punk rock and the world of evangelism, adding a compelling layer to the film's thematic exploration.

The film occasionally needed to work on its pacing and narrative structure, and these minor hiccups led to some disjointed moments. Abrupt tonal shifts and over-the-top performances contributed to the film's cult status. Ultimately, I think Beth B was more concerned with telling these stories than what a critic almost 40 years later would think, and I’m in complete agreement!

One of the most striking features of SALVATION! is its unapologetically bold satirical lens. It fearlessly targets the opulence and hypocrisy of the televangelism community. McHattie's portrayal of Reverend Randall is a highlight, encapsulating the deceptive nature of confident spiritual leaders.

SALVATION! remains a captivating piece of cinema. Beth B's directorial flair is evident in integrating music into the storytelling. The scenes, resembling standalone music videos, echo the MTV culture of the time, adding an extra layer to the film's narrative.

In conclusion, SALVATION! is a dynamic, albeit slightly rough-around-the-edges portrayal of 1980s America. It uniquely combines satire, music, and innovative filmmaking to offer a distinct cinematic experience. While it may not be perfect, it stands out as a significant film that reflects the vibrancy and transformation of its era. For those looking for a film that entertains, provokes thought, and perhaps a bit of nostalgia, SALVATION! is a compelling choice.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]