Review of Witchboard (1986) by Alex R — 22 Apr 2012

Witchboard is a delightfully creepy Horror film, with moments of tense suspense. Directed by the man who brought us Night of the Demons, Witchboard is a neglected low-budget gem of late 80's Horror.

Kevin Tenney is a fine director and he once again proves it with this film. Witchboard is a great film, if you don't take it seriously. People are quick to judge on this film, without really trying to grasp the concept.

The premise of the film is quite interesting, using the Ouija Board as a plot device is an idea not seen since The Exorcist, and instead of conjuring up a Demon, the evil spirit this time around is that of a mass murderer.

In way this can branch into slasher film territory just for that aspect of the film, but it still retains a lot of its supernatural elements. Witchboard is a film that is a lot of fun; just don't take it seriously or anything.

This is the type of film where you just need to unwind and enjoy something that's different. The pacing of the film is well done, and it permits the director to build up the tension and scares on screen to fairly good results, I know I did.

The first entry of the series is a classic of 80's low budget Horror fare. But what really lacks is the terrible third entry that followed. I will always enjoy Tenney's original film, and he is one great talent in the Horror game.

Night of The Demons and this film proves it. Witchboard does have a semi decent cast, but you don't care for anyone really because they're not likeable, and in the end you're kind of happy that a few get wacked off.

These are not a perfect film, but if you're the type to enjoy cheesy, fun horror films, then give this one a look. Witchboard is a worthy piece of Horror from the second half of the 80's and in the hands of director Kevin Tenney, it's a terrific little gem often dismissed and it shouldn't be.