Movie Review: Tales from the Darkside: The Movie (1990)
Synopsis
"Tales from the Darkside: The Movie" is a horror anthology film that serves as a cinematic extension of the cult television series "Tales from the Darkside," which originally aired from 1983 to 1988. Directed by John Harrison, the film comprises three distinct stories framed by an overarching narrative.
The film opens with a young boy, Timmy (Matthew Lawrence), who finds himself at the mercy of a sinister witch (Debbie Harry), intent on devouring him. However, Timmy’s quick thinking saves him from this fate, as he starts telling her his stories to delay her plans. Each story unfolds in the classic anthology style and explores themes of fear, the macabre, and the supernatural.
The first tale, "Lot 249," follows a college student, Edward (Steve Buscemi), who becomes embroiled in a plot involving an ancient Egyptian mummy that he has resurrected. Driven by vengeful desires, Edward’s machinations lead to dark and unforeseen consequences.
The second story, "The Cat from Hell," revolves around an assassin (William Hickey) who is hired to eliminate a seemingly supernatural feline that has a long history of causing death and despair. As the man attempts to carry out this task, he finds himself facing a terror he could never have anticipated.
Finally, in "Lovecraft’s The Rats in the Walls," a man inherits an old house and discovers an unspeakable horror lurking within its walls. As he delves deeper into the home’s grim history, he becomes increasingly entangled in the legacy of madness and horror that haunts it.
While Timmy narrates these stories in a desperate effort to save his life, the overarching horror of his own situation looms ever greater, adding tension and urgency to the anthology. The film blends humour and horror, showcasing classic tricks of the genre while providing its own unique twists.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- Debbie Harry as the Witch
- Matthew Lawrence as Timmy
- Steve Buscemi as Edward
- William Hickey as the Assassin
- David Johansen as the Cat Owner
- Julianne Moore as the Girl in Lot 249
- Robert Picardo as the Male Nurse
- James Remar as a Mummy
Review
"Tales from the Darkside: The Movie" is a mingling of horror and wit, showcasing postmodern sensibilities while tipping its hat to classic horror traditions. The film unfolds in a series of cleverly crafted vignettes, each distinct yet tied together by a sense of dark humour and a nod to the anthology format that defines its source material. John Harrison expertly directs these segments, encapsulating the essence of horror that leaves viewers both entertained and, at times, terrified.
The striking element of this film is its ability to maintain a light-hearted tone within the horror domain. Each story, while encapsulating fear, offers its own twist, creating moments that will elicit both chills and chuckles. The dialogue in "Lot 249," for instance, pulsates with irony, contrasting the horror of the living mummy with witty banter amongst the college students.
Steve Buscemi delivers a standout performance as Edward in "Lot 249." His portrayal of the socially awkward and vengeful student is both nuanced and engaging, perfectly establishing the tension that makes his revenge schemes troubling yet compelling. The ancient Egyptian mythology that underpins this tale adds an intriguing layer, with the iconography of the mummy serving as a classic horror trope that remains effective in this modern retelling.
On the other hand, "The Cat from Hell" provides an alternative thrill. William Hickey’s role as the assassin is deeply engrossing, filled with a peculiar blend of charm and unhinged desperation. The storyline effectively plays with the idea of the known versus the unknown; what initially seems like a ludicrous premise spirals into a scenario that is distinctly unsettling. The film’s practical effects — particularly in those climactic moments — are reminiscent of an era where horror relied less on digital manipulation and more on visceral emotion.
The final tale, "Rats in the Walls," channels the fuzz and terror of H.P. Lovecraft. Although not wholly original, Harrison’s interpretation manages to weave a rich texture of dread through sound and imagery. The portrayal of a man succumbing to madness within a decaying estate prompts psychological as much as supernatural terror. The transformative nature of the character is sufficient to keep audiences on the edge, as the lines blur between reality and the malignance of the old house.
Connecting these narratives, the story of Timmy and his plight further informs the audience’s engagement. As he spins his tales, one becomes conscious of the duality of storytelling — narratives can save and ensnare. The dynamic between the innocent boy and the intimidating witch serves as the crux of the film. It reflects a poignant commentary on the nature of fear and the storytelling tradition itself — a fitting frame that aligns with anthology storytelling conventions.
Technically, "Tales from the Darkside: The Movie" showcases its era’s charm through set design, costume, and cinematography. Each segment possesses its own aesthetic, with lighting and sound design intricately choreographed to enhance the feel of dread. The authentic special effects contribute significantly to the film’s mystique, creating moments that spring from horror rather than gore.
However, the film is not without its flaws. Due to its anthology format, certain segments may leave viewers feeling slightly disjointed; some stories resonate more strongly than others. Importantly, the pacing occasionally stutters, making certain sections feel rushed. While the overarching narrative connecting the stories is both amusing and tense, the conclusion, while fitting for an anthology, may leave a bit to be desired for some audiences who seek resolution rather than ambiguity.
In conclusion, "Tales from the Darkside: The Movie" encapsulates the intertwining of horror and humour, with solid performances and engaging narratives that will resonate with fans of the genre. Its ability to blend creepy storytelling with a touch of the absurd is commendable, making it a noteworthy entry in the horror anthology canon. While it may not appeal to everyone, the film successfully captures the essence of the "Tales from the Darkside" television series, potentially delighting both long-time fans and new viewers.
Score: 7.5/10
