Review of Pumpkinhead (1988) by Aj G — 29 Sep 2010

Pumpkinhead is a brilliantly atmospheric creature feature and was also the directorial debut of special effects wizard (the late) Stan Winston. It tells the story of a deep-south living farmer named Ed Harley (Lance Henriksen) who's young son is accidentally killed by a careless, trail-bike riding "city-slicker". Grief stricken and totally enraged, Harley enlists the services of an old bayou-dwelling witch who uses her black magic to awaken a 'vengeance demon' called Pumpkinhead. What follows is a hellish nightmare as the gruesome creature stalks and eliminates the one responsible for the boy's death (and those around him one by one)...but, as Ed Harley will soon discover, when it's all over...a heavy price must be paid.

Pumpkinhead is exceptionally well made and highly recommended. If you love monster movies with a decent script, atmosphere, minimal gore and good characterization then seek this one out, folks...you won't regret it. Sublime!