Blood Feast (1963) – Movie Review
Synopsis
"Blood Feast," directed by Herschell Gordon Lewis, is widely regarded as one of the first splatter films in cinematic history, and it certainly set the tone for the genre in the subsequent decades. The film follows the disturbing and macabre escapades of a delusional caterer named Fuad Ramses, portrayed by Mal Arnold. Set in an unassuming suburb, the narrative revolves around Fuad’s bizarre obsession with the ancient Egyptian goddess Ishtar and his sinister intentions to perform a ritualistic blood feast—a sacrificial banquet intended to resurrect this long-forgotten deity.
As Fuad sets his gruesome plan into motion, he embarks on a series of horrific murders, gathering body parts to prepare a grotesque offering. The local authorities, particularly two detectives, begin investigating the string of bizarre and bloody incidents that coincide with Fuad’s catering business. Meanwhile, the protagonist, a young girl planning her birthday party, becomes unwittingly entangled in Fuad’s nefarious plot. The tension builds as the detectives race against time to capture Fuad before his dark rituals culminate in tragedy.
The film is notorious for its extreme violence, nonsensical plot, and over-the-top performances, yet it holds a certain cult status for its pioneering role in the horror genre. "Blood Feast" is not just a film; it’s a curiosity of cinematic history that has influenced countless filmmakers and the evolution of gore in cinema.
Cast
- Mal Arnold as Fuad Ramses
- William Kerwin as Detective Lee
- Lynn Ruddy as Allie, the girl preparing for her birthday party
- Marilyn Eastman as the detective’s wife
- Scott H. Hall as the police chief
- Lynn Roth as the mother of Allie
- Harry Spaulding as a police officer
- Joni F. Walker as a party guest
Review
Herschell Gordon Lewis’s "Blood Feast" is an outlandish exercise in horror that delights in pushing boundaries, but it also sits precariously at the edge of tastefulness. Released during a time when censorship was beginning to lift, it not only entertained but shocked audiences with its explicit content, setting it apart from its contemporaries. As one delves into the film, it becomes evident that its primary objective is to elicit gasps and guffaws rather than nurture a compelling narrative.
The performances, particularly by Mal Arnold, are eccentric and exaggerated, adding an air of absurdity to the overall experience. Arnold’s portrayal of Fuad Ramses is a rich tapestry of melodrama and camp. His character oscillates between sinister and ridiculous, providing moments of unintentional comedy amidst the horrific unfolding of events. He embodies the archetypal madman with a flair that borders on the operatic. Arnold’s performance, paired with Lewis’s clumsy script, yields an amalgam that is both unsettling and amusing in equal measure.
The film itself is widely regarded for its lack of technical prowess. From its amateurish cinematography to its abysmal sound design, “Blood Feast” takes on a homespun quality that often comes off as charmingly inept. The special effects, although crude, were revolutionary for their time, marking a shift towards visual gore that would become a staple in the slasher films of the following decades. Yet, it’s undeniable that the execution is unrefined, with gory sequences that may leave audiences laughing rather than horrified.
In terms of narrative structure, "Blood Feast" is paper-thin. The story meanders through absurdities, taking drastic leaps that test the viewers’ suspension of disbelief. The depth of characters is virtually non-existent; they are mere vehicles for violence and chaos. While the detectives investigating the murders are a nod to classic crime films, they serve little purpose beyond advancing the plot towards its inevitable conclusion. Despite its shortcomings, one cannot accuse "Blood Feast" of lacking ambition. Lewis was undoubtedly aiming for shock value, and in that, he succeeded brilliantly.
The film’s pacing is problematic as well. It drags in parts, with long stretches of dialogue that feel tedious, often interspersed with moments of shocking violence. The disjointed editing creates an erratic rhythm that does neither the story nor the characters any favours. Additionally, the soundtrack is limited, relying on a repetitive score that grows tiresome over time. There’s a certain irony in how the music adds an unintentional comedic layer to the grim scenes unfolding on-screen.
Yet, despite its myriad flaws, "Blood Feast" deserves recognition as a pioneering work that emboldened an entire genre. While it’s easy to dismiss it as trash, its cultural significance cannot be overlooked. The film is a notable precursor to the gruesome horror films that would follow, paving the way for more extravagant visual spectacles in gore and violence.
Interestingly, "Blood Feast" resonates with audiences through its sheer audacity. It invites viewers to revel in the absurd while contemplating the darker aspects of human nature. The film pushes limits, challenging our notions of horror, and compelling future filmmakers to explore the grotesque in increasingly imaginative (and often extreme) ways.
The film’s legacy extends further into the realm of camp films. Its quotable lines, laughable performances, and ludicrous plot twists have earned it a place in the hearts of cult followers. Screenings of "Blood Feast" often elicit raucous laughter and audience interaction, highlighting its status as a beloved classic among those who appreciate the absurdity of genre cinema.
Conclusion
Ultimately, "Blood Feast" is a bizarre slice of cinema with a significant cultural impact. It serves as a testament to the evolution of horror, showcasing how far the genre has come and what it can become. While it may not satisfy the conventional criteria for good filmmaking, its audacity and pioneering spirit mark it as a landmark moment in horror history. For its historical importance and sheer entertainment value, "Blood Feast" is an experience that will not easily be forgotten.
Score: 5/10
Whether viewed as a historical artefact or a piece of entertainment, it is clear that "Blood Feast" remains an essential, if flawed, part of horror cinema. It is a film best enjoyed with friends, a sense of humour, and an appreciation for the bizarre. If you are seeking a traditional horror experience, you might want to look elsewhere; however, if you are inclined towards the outrageous and grotesque, "Blood Feast" offers a wild ride through the annals of horror filmmaking that deserves your attention.
