Review of Dead Mine (2012) by George M — 17 Jun 2013

A group of researchers travel to a deserted Japanese bunker along with their armed guards in the hopes of uncovering Yamashita legendary gold. What they find, instead, is a twisted science experiment gone horribly wrong, which unleashes undead assassins against the unsuspecting trespassers. If all of this sounds familiar, that's because it is. Writer/Director Steven Sheil lifts the same basic plot and premise from OUTPOST and ships it overseas to post-WWII Japan in a far less appealing film entitled DEAD MINE, from 2012. DEAD MINE frequently quotes THE DESCENT and others, as well, although it does achieve some success in recreating many of the same scare tactics. Thankfully, the film moves along at a brisk pace, with plenty of action to distract from the stolen material. One cannot deny the impressive production designs, either. The mediocre cast does little to gain our sympathies or support, however, so the onset of bloody carnage is a welcomed relief. While it is leagues above other WWII-themed films featuring undead soldiers (we're looking at you, ZOMBIE LAKE), DEAD MINE puts far too much emphasis on action over suspense.

-Carl Manes.

I Like Horror Movies.