Kasten chooses to keep us guessing nearly right from the beginning as the film has a surreal quality to it that blurs the edges between reality and illusion. As Bigelow's mental state begins to unravel (signaled by the increasing frequency with which he breathes into a paper bag to calm himself), we are led to question his real relationship to the murders. He is increasingly tormented by nightmares that contain images reminiscent of the killings. Does Montag actually exist, or is the entire magic show a figment of Bigelow's imagination? Is he a clever serial killer, a dupe, or an insane man in the grip of tormenting visions? Along for the ride is Maggie, who isn't entirely the person we are led to believe she is, and Bigelow's friend Jinky (Joshua Miller), who conveniently happens to work in the coroner's office. Some expository help is handed out by Brad Dourif, who plays Dr. Chong, a mysterious ex-spook of a medicine man who helps Bigelow (and us) figure out some of the hows and whys along the way to the denouement.
While the gore effects are stellar throughout, much of Montag's stage work (and hence some of the film's more gruesome moments) takes place behind a glass screen which serves to both mask some of the grislier elements and heighten the illusion of... well, illusion. If you're inclined to close your eyes during some of the bloodier moments, be forewarned that the sounds effects folks have done a thorough job here, too. The acting is fine throughout, and the electric, off-balance cinematography serves to heighten one's disconnect from reality. You don't have to be a gore-hound to like this movie — you just need to have a sense of fun, a big bucket of popcorn, and someone to keep you company.
Jeremy Kasten was on hand after the screening for an audience Q & A. He mentioned that the film will be released directly to DVD, and if you're a fan of well-done horror with a psychedelic edge, this film is well worth your time. If you happen to come across a festival screening, take the opportunity to see it on the big screen. The Wizard of Gore won an honorable mention in the Best Feature category (Director's Choice Awards) at the Boston Underground Film Festival. For more information, visit the film's official website.
Watch the trailer:
.jpg?t=20120527181101)
Article comments
1 - Bill Sherman
It's been ages since I've seen the original HG Lewis gore flick - and this sounds like a major step up on the source material. You've got me intrigued . . .