Ambiguous and a Visual Treat

Rating: 8/10 (1 May 2006)

Beware!!! Here is another film where we never know exactly what is going, and yet that is part of the fun here. The film's story might not be its strongest point because there is not a lot of originality here, but there are new approaches to the old theme of good vs evil, or is it stupidity vs. evil, or might it be just "I don't know what I'm doing here vs. You have no idea of what's is going to happen to you here"... Whatever the case might be, the atmosphere, and yes, surprisingly the acting are very good, making sure you get your money's worth, pretty much the way, a roller-coaster ride gives you some thrills; you don't have to worry about anything deep or lasting.
First of all, I am amazed at how much computers can do. The design of the town and its inhabitants should be acknowledged as some of the best of the year. It's unconceivable that work of this quality never makes the list in those top 5 or top 3 awards shows. The idea is to recognize the best of the best in each category, and there are some amazing creations in here. We have seen spooky interiors and netherworld before, but the scope of this universe is something to admire. There are times when you literally feel that Dante's Inferno could have used some of these looks for inspiration, or maybe you wonder whether this director and his production theme should go ahead and tackle that type of material. The haunting quality feels like much more than just a set. It consistent and strong. It compensates for the gaps in the narrative's logic.
There are some powerful ideas here, and I like the concept of God/Mother as a symbol. I don't recall having seen it before, and its works very well here. As previously mentioned, the principals in the film are quite effective, especially the fanatic priestess who has a key role in the last half of the film.
The story of a child in distress has been done before, yet it is the ride that is much more fun this time. Starting with the typical beginning that takes the mother in search of what can save her child. It is not the most practical move, but we have to get to the that haunted town somehow, don't we? The ending is much more successful since we know that things might not be what they seem after all. What in the world is happening with that little girl? What about that other girl? What is her role here? Don't worry about it. Just have some fun and pretend like you really don't care. This is light entertainment (well it's a bit dark, too), and it's to be enjoyed!