| crabapple |
07-21-2006 11:33 AM |
A description I wrote for an Ebay ad:
"NIGHTMARE IN BLOOD" (1978)
A real product of the 1970's. This is the unbelievably weird obscure horror "drama" about a San Francisco horror convention in the mid-70's whose special guest, Malakai (basically a Christopher Lee-type horror star) is actually a real vampire. Malakai has more on his mind than simply drinking blood...he's using his career as a horror star to shape the public's opinion of vampires! It seems that Malakai wants respect, and he will ruthlessly destroy anyone who undermines his rather ill-defined plans. Can the directors of the Horror Convention stop Malakai and his cackling, murderous assistants, the original Burke and Hare? Directed by infamous horror host John Stanley, this film is an interesting fantasy about the entertainment world and the frightful realities that may lurk within the mythologies. Perhaps could be considered the predecessor of films like "Wes Craven's New Nightmare," "Shadow of the Vampire" and similar satires. This film is often awkward in its approach, and yet there is a certain intelligence that drives it and keeps it going.
Well, if the above description hasn't clued you in yet, this is NOT a horror film for the mainstream horror consumer's shelf. In many ways it is not scary at all--it is weirdly fascinating instead, with a gaggle of odd characters constantly spouting philosophical observations. Considering its small budget, it is very nicely photographed in widescreen (2.35:1). Director Stanley and co-writer/co-producer Kenn Davis appear on a commentary track during which they amusingly recount the whole sad, expensive tale of making and selling this wonderful oddball masterpiece. Unique and engrossing--a must for any film buff who loves the strange atmosphere of 70's movies.
|
