When there are no more heroes left, you will be left with the "Devils Rejects". This is one insane movie. A gritty revenge/horror film that seems to come straight out of the 70's. This film represents a huge step forward in Rob Zombie's skill as a director. Not to say he is the greatest to ever step behind the camera, but he is showing much more control over the medium, an ability to tell a story and deliver interesting characters. Much more so than the ill-received House of 1000 Corpses, which, for the record, I enjoyed.
We pick up right shortly after the events of that earlier film. Tiny is taking care of some, uhhh, business, while the rest of the Firefly clan is still in their slumber. All the while, a parade of Ruggsville county police approach the home. They are being led by Sheriff Wydell, brother of Sheriff Wydell from the first film, and hellbent on exacting revenge. Then a full blown shootout ensues, which results in Otis and Baby hitting the road, getting ahold of patriarch Captain Spaulding, and going on the run the only way they can.
This is probably the most unsettling film to get a major release so far this year. The film has more than it's share of violence, torture and blood. There are no heroes in this film; it revels in the depraved nature of all involved. It also has a sense of humor, some campy dialog, but all is played straight, which just adds to the twisted nature of these people.
The performances are surprisingly good all around. The centerpiece would have to be the next entrant in the hall of creepy clowns, Captain Spaulding himself, played with a maniacal glee by Sid Haig. This guy is insane, he takes the role over the top, but is oddly grounded in the way he plays the role. I especially liked his carjacking sequence, plus his interactions with Ken Foree (from the original Night of the Living Dead), who plays Charles. Not to be outdone is the truly insane Otis Driftwood, played by Bill Mosely. This guy is unsettling, he pulls no punches and is rather ruthless when crossed. The final member of our Rejects is Baby, brought to screeching life by Rob's wife, Sheri Moon Zombie. She is sweet and funny and weird and can kill without remorse, plus Rob loves to show her behind, not that many are complaining.
Article comments
1 - Aaron, Duke De Mondo
hurrah! great stuff, Chris. i hope to see TDR this week. initially i disliked House Of 1'000 Corpses (indeed, i think my review of Haute Tension from around this time last year says something about how house is some sort of crudfest) then came to love it, on account of re-discovering my love of White Zombie. REALLY looking forward to this, and have every reason to believe it'll be demented glory from start till end.
i gotta say, i hope Rob stays away from the Last House remake. what in hell's name would possess anyone to remake that fucker anyhow???