Movie Review: The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988)
Synopsis:
"The Serpent and the Rainbow," directed by Wes Craven, is a riveting horror film that delves into the dark and mystifying world of Haitian Vodou. The story follows Dr. Dennis Alan (played by Bill Pullman), an ethnobotanist who has devoted his career to understanding the secrets of indigenous plants and their medicinal properties. His journey leads him to Haiti during the late 1980s, a country rife with political upheaval and deeply rooted in mysticism.
Alan is sent to Haiti by a pharmaceutical company after hearing reports of a powder that can render a person in a state resembling death, hence granting the purported ability to bury someone while they are still alive, only to later revive them. This powder, he learns, is an integral part of Vodou and has profound implications for the local culture. He arrives in Haiti during a time of unrest and finds himself embroiled in a world filled with unsettling rituals, malevolent spirits, and the omnipresent threat of the powerful, yet sinister, Bokor (sorcerer).
As Alan’s search for knowledge intensifies, he becomes entangled with the local Vodou practitioners, including a priestess named Marielle (played by Cathy Tyson). His pursuit leads him to face countless dangers, as the Bokor believes that Alan’s presence poses a threat to his practice. The tension increases as Alan frequently experiences nightmarish visions and encounters with the supernatural, often blurring the lines between reality and nightmare.
The film’s atmosphere is rich with eerie imagery and psychological horror, drawing heavily on the fears associated with both the unknown and the loss of control. As Alan dives deeper into his quest, he must confront not only the horrific realities of Vodou magic but also the harsh political situation in Haiti that underpins the local superstitions and fears. The climax culminates in a potent mix of horror and revelation as Alan’s beliefs are tested and he confronts the darker elements of this world.
Actors and Their Characters:
- Bill Pullman as Dr. Dennis Alan
- Cathy Tyson as Marielle
- Zakes Mokae as the Bokor (Damballah)
- Paul Winfield as the Medical Examiner
- Michael Gough as the Pharmaceutical Executive
- Anna Deavere Smith as Nurse
- Uwe Ochsenknecht as the Zombie
Conclusion:
"The Serpent and the Rainbow" stands as a notable entry in the horror genre, blending elements of ethnographic study with eerie supernatural horror. Wes Craven, known for his ability to unsettle audiences, masterfully crafts a narrative that is both thought-provoking and deeply chilling. Pullman’s performance as Dr. Alan captures the essence of a man driven by scientific curiosity, yet is relentlessly pitted against the inexplicable terrors of a culture that is vastly foreign to him.
The cinematography by John Seale beautifully captures the haunting landscapes of Haiti, while the soundtrack by Brad Fiedel heightens the atmosphere of unease. The film’s cultural commentary, while not overly preachy, invites viewers to reflect on the intersections of science and belief, colonialism, and the genuine horrors that can arise when different worlds collide.
However, it is worth noting that while the film is grounded in some elements of reality—drawing from Wade Davis’s non-fiction work of the same name—certain artistic liberties are taken, which may lead to criticisms regarding oversimplification and sensationalism of Vodou practices.
Overall, “The Serpent and the Rainbow” effectively taps into universal fears of the unknown, while also serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ignorance and the dangers of exploitation. It is a film that resonates deeply even decades after its release, serving both as entertainment and a thought-provoking exploration of different cultural beliefs.
For its intriguing narrative, strong performances, and striking visual style, I would rate "The Serpent and the Rainbow" an 8 out of 10.
