Movie Review: Messiah of Evil (1973)
Synopsis:
Messiah of Evil, a 1973 horror film, unfolds through the eyes of a young woman named Arletty (played by Marianna Hill), who embarks on a haunting journey to find her missing father. The search leads her to the eerie, coastal town of Point Dune, seemingly deserted, with only a handful of locals remaining. From the moment Arletty arrives, the film immerses the audience in a surreal atmosphere characterised by bizarre happenings and unsettling events.
Arletty discovers that her father had been investigating a sinister cult that worships a malevolent force dubbed "the blood of Christ". This cult is not only intent on sacrificing innocents but also seems to have transformed many of the town’s inhabitants into grotesque creatures. As she delves deeper into the town’s secrets, she encounters a group of outsiders, including the handsome but enigmatic Jeff (played by Michael Greene) and his friends, who become intrigued by Arletty’s plight.
The narrative is punctuated by dreamlike sequences and striking visual compositions, crafting a sense of impending doom that pervades the film. Suspense escalates as the sinister nature of the townsfolk and the cult’s ideology become increasingly apparent. The darker undertones of the film are amplified by its social commentary, hinting at the isolation and existential despair that consumes those who dwell in this purgatorial setting.
As Arletty’s search continues, she uncovers unsettling truths about the cult and the fate of her father. The expectations of traditional horror are subverted, invoking feelings of dread and disorientation rather than relying solely on jump scares. Each character’s descent into madness serves as a poignant metaphor for the loss of individuality and the omnipresence of evil.
Messiah of Evil culminates in a series of suitably disturbing revelations and a hauntingly surreal climax, leaving audiences questioning the nature of reality and the inescapable presence of malevolence in a world that appears ordinary on the surface.
List of Actors:
- Marianna Hill as Arletty
- Michael Greene as Jeff
- Annabelle Weenick as Laura
- Elisha Cook Jr. as the Town Father
- Royal Dano as the Grocer
- Joyce Van Patten as the Woman in the Tavern
- Murray MacLeod as the Man with a Hook
- Diana Sands as the Voice of nightmarish figures
- Angus Scrimm as an uncredited role
Conclusion:
Messiah of Evil stands as a distinctive entry in the horror genre, marked by its avant-garde approach and philosophical undercurrents. The film is a striking blend of visual storytelling and psychological tension, revealing the insidious layers of madness that lie beneath the veneer of normalcy. With its compelling narrative and evocatively unsettling atmosphere, it challenges viewers to confront the darkness that resides within both the town of Point Dune and, metaphorically, within themselves.
While the pacing may feel sluggish to some, the effective use of atmosphere and art direction enhances its cult film status, drawing viewers into an experience that resonates long after the credits roll. To those who appreciate horror that escapably intertwines with existential dread and possess a taste for the surreal, Messiah of Evil is a must-watch.
Score: 8/10
