Sunday, September 1, 2013

CLASSIC HORROR -- Nightbreed

Nightbreed, released in 1990, was directed and written by Clive Barker. The film centers around a troubled man named Aaron Boone, who is set up as the slasher murder that mutilates and kills families in all kinds of horrible ways. *SMALL SPOILER!!* These string of murders are actually being committed by Boone's therapist, Dr. Philip Decker. *END SPOILER!!* Fast forward, Boone heads out to Midian, a city underneath a cemetery. It's a place where all the creatures (aka Nightbreed) live peacefully away from society. But Boone's arrival brings puzzlement to the Nightbreed, and then death. I'm going to stop right there to avoid spoilers!




This film is an adaption to Clive Barker's short novel "Cabal" (1988). The plot and acting excelled in this film. The best parts of the film may be things everyone did not notice right away. There were different costumes and make up, even for the citizens of Midian. All the characters seemed very vibrant and memorable! It seems like creative juices were definitely flowing to think of the characters in this one! The second thing I liked about the film was the true meaning of this film. The plot itself was used to describe how it felt to be discriminated against in the early 90's. I suppose it's human nature to try to discriminate against those who are different. I could be wrong but then again...it's my opinion!




Surprisingly, I had never seen this movie before now. But after seeing it, I wish I would have read Cabal first. And I doubt that there will be a sequel, but there will definitely be an extended version coming out soon. The original time for this film was 145 minutes, but it was cut down to 101 minutes. Luckily, Clive Barker confirmed on July 19th, 2013 that The Cabal Cut will be released on DVD by Shout Factory, woo hoo!




I recommend this film because it's filled with gruesome horror scenes and elements. It shouldn't be confused with being gory because it's far from gory. Mr. Barker was clearly trying to achieve something visionary with this film. It has an amazing atmosphere, especially in the gothic cemetery. And although this film starts out with a stalker, slasher theme, it quickly transforms into something you wouldn't believe monsters could be in! Plus, this time, the monsters are not the villians!

So, I say give Nightbreed a try if you haven't seen it!


I give it 4 out of 5 queen skulls!

4 comments :

  1. Is that Capt. Hollister from Red Dwarf? Ha ha!

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  2. Those are some pretty badass monsters. I haven't seen this movie yet but I'll be sure to put it on my list of movies to watch. (It's a long list. ;) )

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  3. I remember this one. I think I saw it as a teen. Isn't that Craig Sheffer?

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  4. Love Nightbreed. One of my favorite horror movies.

    There is an anthology of stories about what happened after Nightbreed coming out next year. They are accepting submissions until September 30. http://josephnassise.com/call-for-submissions-midian-unmade-tales-of-clive-barkers-nightbreed

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