“LIFE! DO YOU HEAR ME? GIVE MY CREATION… LIFE!”
Dr. Frederick Frankenstein- Young Frankenstein
When it comes to the horror genre, some of the best films are low budget indie films, and this was especially the case in the 80s when many great filmmakers like Sam Rami, Peter Jackson, and Wes Craven got their start. Stuart Gordan never got that big break after Re-Animator, but he’s undoubtedly one of the best horror directors ever.
Re-Animator is a little bit zombie movie mixed with the classic Frankenstein. Even though it draws on these, it’s about as original of a film you will ever see. I should note that the movie is based on an H.P. Lovecraft story. Even though it’s based on Lovecraft, the filmmaking feels fresh and different.
Jeffery Combs stars as the maniacal Herbert West. West is a unique character because he’s intelligent, sociopathic, obsessive, and focused. The film doesn’t mince the fact that West is unsympathetic. He’s our protagonist, and he’s flawed as hell. Combs was a brilliant choice for the role because he’s a little bit Bruce Campbell and a little bit Egon Spengler.
What makes Re-Animator good is that Gordon doesn’t pull punches. Just when you think the film can’t go any further, it does. The gore is turned up to the max, and the amount of blood spilled in this film is unbelievable. The practical effects are slick. I can’t believe this film was made for less than a million dollars.
If you are looking for something a little more fun than your average horror film, look no further than Re-Animator. But also be warned this film isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s been said this film used more fake blood than any other movie in history.
