NIGHTBREED Review On "Violent Maniac's Cage"

NIGHTBREED

(1989, USA, Canada)

DIRECTED BY: Clive Barker.

This is without a doubt one of Barkers most enjoyable efforts. The make-up and special effects are amazing and the fiery conclusion is one for the record books. It has Craig Sheffer as a young man confused by his strange dreams of monsters. Sheffers shrink played by Canadian director great David Cronenberg in a deliciously sinister role has Sheffer convinced that the reason why he is having these dreams is because he is a murderer.

Cronenberg's character even goes so far as to show Sheffer pictures of his victims which are actually Cronenberg's since he is the real killer and not Sheffer, Cronenberg just wants Sheffer all messed up so he (Cronenberg) will have someone to blame for his murders.

After Sheffer disappears out into the Canadian wilderness his girlfriend goes to get him and Sheffers shrink (Cronenberg) tags along. After being wrongly executed Sheffer joins the monsters he was having dreams about in a mystical underground world called Midian.

Everything comes together and results in a big explosion as the wild assortment of creatures in Midian square off against detestable police and Cronenberg in an unforgettable showdown. The film speaks very poorly of police and really makes you despise them. A superb slasher/psychological/monster movie all rolled into one.

The conclusion is very interesting as well almost like a sequel was intended. what else can you say about a film which has David Cronenberg playing a psycho psychiatrist murderer who wears a cool mask. Get it for a good watch, it's a film worth your time. If you like quality horror fare you won't be disappointed. Based on Barkers book Cabal.

Rating: 4 Skulls

Review by: Richard J. Taylor

Email: rtaylor@roadrunner.nf.net

This site is created and maintained by Violent Maniac < CMAYO@THEZONE.NET >