The Relic (1997) – Movie Review
Synopsis
Released in 1997, "The Relic" is a horror-thriller directed by Peter Hyams, based on the novel by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. The narrative unfolds in Chicago, where a series of gruesome murders coincides with an exhibition at the local museum. The film opens with a prelude set in the Amazon rainforest, where an archaeological expedition uncovers a mysterious artifact – the titular relic. This artefact, an ancient idol said to possess supernatural powers, acts as a harbinger of doom.
After a disconcerting prologue, we are introduced to Dr. Edward "Eddie" Malone (played by Tom Sizemore), a knowledgeable but somewhat dishevelled police detective. Malone is dispatched to investigate the horrifying murders at the museum, where he encounters Dr. Anna Cha (Penelope Ann Miller), a determined museum curator with a fascinating background in anthropology.
As the story unfolds, Malone, Cha, and a cast of supporting characters become increasingly entangled in a web of terror. The relic they discovered in the Amazon appears to be linked to a creature stalking the museum, and as the murderous mayhem escalates, the duo must race against time to solve the mystery of the relic and stop the creature from taking more lives. The film combines elements of slasher horror with science fiction, as it delves into themes of ancient lore versus modernity and the consequences of mankind’s relentless pursuit of knowledge.
List of Actors and Characters
- Tom Sizemore as Detective Edward "Eddie" Malone
- Penelope Ann Miller as Dr. Anna Cha
- Linda Hunt as Margo Green
- James Whitmore as the Museum’s Curator
- Clayton Rohner as Dr. Nick Akyroyd
- John McMartin as the Museum’s Director
- Richard Zeppieri as Detective Zamora
Review
"The Relic" attempts to weave horror and mystery through the lens of anthropological intrigue, but the execution leaves much to be desired. What could have been an exciting exploration of ancient curses and modern scientific hubris falters in its pacing and character development. The premise offers rich potential; however, the adaptation fails to deliver a coherent narrative that keeps the audience fully engaged.
Tom Sizemore as Detective Malone carries a gritty charm, embodying a troubled cop type that feels both familiar and comfortably archetypal. He treads the fine line between credible hero and haunted investigator well enough, though the character often finds himself lost amid the film’s convoluted plot. Penelope Ann Miller brings a touch of depth to Dr. Cha, showcasing her abilities as someone fiercely ambitious and knowledgeable in her field. Yet, despite her best efforts, her character often falls victim to the stereotypical tropes of the genre, serving more as a damsel in need of rescue than as a fully realised character in her own right.
The supporting cast, including the seasoned Linda Hunt as Margo Green and James Whitmore as the museum curator, does provide some much-needed nuance. Hunt’s performance is particularly engaging, serving as a well-grounded contrast to the film’s more chaotic elements. However, even these seasoned actors struggle with the script, which at times seems to prioritise expository dialogue over character development.
The film’s greatest strength lies in its production design and special effects. The creature design, reminiscent of a menacing ancient deity, is a bona fide highlight. It exudes an unsettling, otherworldly quality that contributes to the film’s eerie atmosphere. The practical effects serve the story well, effectively combining horror with the nightmarish unknown. However, some viewers may find that the creature itself, while impressive in design, lends a sense of absurdity to the film that detracts from its more serious narrative ambitions.
One of the film’s notable weaknesses is its pacing. The first half of "The Relic" is marked by significant exposition, which can feel laboured and drawn-out. This results in a lack of palpable tension during crucial moments in the film, diminishing the urgency with which Malone and Cha approach the mounting threats. While the film eventually picks up its pace in the second half, the initial sluggishness may deter viewers expecting a tight, thrilling narrative arc.
Moreover, the film’s reliance on cliché horror tropes casts a pall over the unique aspects of the story. There are moments when the plot becomes predictable, leaning into common horror conventions that feel stale, such as the isolated museum setting and an assortment of jump scares. While these elements provide a certain comfort for fans of the genre, they do feel somewhat out of place in a film that teases the notion of ancient, mystical forces at play.
On a technical level, Peter Hyams’ direction is competent, often highlighting shadowy corridors and tension-building cinematography that accentuates the molecule of fear permeating the museum. The soundtrack, featuring a blend of traditional orchestration and modern horror scores, effectively mirrors the unfolding drama, heightening mood when needed. Yet, despite these competent technical elements, the film does not fully capitalise on its own potential.
In addition to thematic and pacing issues, "The Relic" raises some intriguing questions about the ethical implications of cultural exploration and the consequences of human greed. The interplay between science and ancient lore offers fertile ground for intellectual exploration, yet these themes remain underdeveloped throughout the film. Rather than engaging meaningfully with the complexity of its subject matter, the movie occasionally settles for sensationalism and spectacle over substance.
Ultimately, "The Relic" emerges as a film torn between its ambition and execution. While it possesses moments of genuine horror and a solid concept, it struggles with character development, pacing, and an overreliance on genre tropes. While it may provide entertainment for enthusiasts of ’90s creature features, it likely won’t remain a lasting entry in the annals of horror cinema.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "The Relic" (1997) serves as an intriguing yet flawed entry into the horror genre. Its impressive creature design and atmosphere are countered by pacing issues, pedestrian characterisation, and a script burdened by clichés. Tom Sizemore and Penelope Ann Miller’s performances offer some redeeming qualities, yet even they cannot fully elevate the film above its underwhelming execution. For those with a hankering for ’90s horror, "The Relic" may provide some casual scares, but for discerning viewers seeking deeper engagement, this film may fall short of expectations.
Score: 5/10
Though it has its merits, "The Relic" ultimately fails to merge its ambitious premise with the engaging storytelling that could have made it a notable entry in the horror genre.
