Review of Hellraiser (1987) by Tom P — 31 Dec 2011
Along with the original 'Dawn of the Dead', this ranks as one of the most overrated horror classics of all time. Suspect acting from everyone involved, a half-baked plot that is never really explored or makes much sense, a dated score and effects, and it moves at a snails pace.
I was not scared in the least, and as far as I'm concerned, that's the litmus test of any horror film and especially a supposed classic. A number of cliche plot devices (ex; the evil stepmother) have you immediately second guessing the legitimacy of the film.
What is sad is that the potential for a great horror movie is here. Unfortunately the elements which work are downplayed dramatically. The Cenobites are a little unsettling, and they are in the film for a combined 7 or so minutes. The ending is haphazardly thrown in, and makes little to no sense.
Maybe I'm just really missing some deep context oriented subtext, but I don't think I am.
This review of Hellraiser (1987) was written by Tom P on 31 Dec 2011.
Hellraiser has generally received positive reviews.
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