Movie Review: Nightbreed (1990)
Synopsis:
"Nightbreed," directed by Clive Barker and based on his own novella "Cabal," is a fascinating blend of horror, fantasy, and dark mythology. The film tells the story of Boone, portrayed by Craig Sheffer, a troubled young man plagued by disturbing visions of a mystical population residing in a place known as Midian. Unknown to him, these visions are not merely figments of his imagination; they are echoes of a hidden world inhabited by creatures long ostracised from society—the Nightbreed.
Boone, seeking to understand these dreams, finds himself drawn to Midian and uncovers a subterranean sanctuary where these outcasts live. Each member of this society is unique, often grotesque yet imbued with an air of tragedy. Conniving forces soon threaten their haven when a deranged serial killer, who Boone unknowingly shares a psychic link with, turns the police against him and the Nightbreed. The film intricately weaves Boone’s quest for identity and belonging with themes of acceptance, prejudice, and the struggle against inhumanity—a metaphor for how society treats those who are different.
As the police close in on Midian under the direction of the psychotically-driven Captain Eigerman (David Cronenberg), a battle for survival ensues. Boone, caught between the world of humans and the Nightbreed, must find his place and protect those who have welcomed him into their fold. The film’s visionary aesthetic, brought to life through Barker’s striking direction and the impressive creature design, ignites a sense of unease that is both compelling and thrilling.
List of Actors and Their Characters:
- Craig Sheffer as Boone
- Anne Bobby as Lori
- David Cronenberg as Decker
- Charles Haid as Captain Eigerman
- Doug Bradley as the Stickman
- Simon Bamford as Butterball
- Nicholas Vince as Kinski
- Hugh Ross as Pelagie
- Christie McNicol as the Nightbreed resident
- David Dukes as the psychiatrist
Conclusion:
"Nightbreed" is an audacious and visionary film that challenges the boundaries of the horror genre. Clive Barker’s unique storytelling and artistic flair elevate the film beyond the typical conventions of 90s horror. It serves as a poignant allegory about acceptance, emphasizing the importance of community, no matter how unconventional its members may seem.
While the film’s pacing can be erratic at times, leaving certain narrative threads unfulfilled, the sheer imagination on display, paired with an eclectic array of monstrous characters, makes "Nightbreed" a memorable cinematic experience. The underlying societal commentary regarding the treatment of the outcast resonates as powerfully today as it did upon its release.
The performances are solid across the board, particularly Sheffer and Cronenberg, whose roles propel the film into deeper emotional and psychological realms. The creature designs are spectacular and offer a haunting glimpse into Barker’s creative mind, blending horror with a sense of wonder that is seldom found in mainstream cinema.
Despite its initial mixed reception, "Nightbreed" has garnered a devoted cult following, and rightly so. It invites viewers to question their own prejudices and fosters empathy towards those society often views as ‘monstrous.’ For anyone seeking an unconventional horror story that melds fantasy with stark social commentary, "Nightbreed" stands out as a noteworthy gem.
I would score "Nightbreed" a 7.5 out of 10 for its creative vision and depth, despite its occasional narrative shortcomings.