Product: Ring of Darkness (2004)
Rating: 4.0
Campy Fun!
David DeCouteau has a devoted cult following and this film is an excellent example of his work. I believe this film started out as one of the BROTHERHOOD series but for some reason has been released without that affiliation. It certainly follows the winning BROTHERHOOD formula (except there is no lightening in this film - come to think of it, there has been none of his trademark lightening effects in any of his films since LEECHES). At any rate, RING OF DARKNESS has a great cast, headed by Adrienne Barbeau. Jeff Peterson (from DeCouteaus's ANCIENT EVIL and PRISON OF THE DEAD) turns up as Jonah, first victim of the evil boy band Take10. Josh Hammond (from BROTHERHOOD) also puts in an appearance as a not so talented boy band wannabe. Also watch for cameos from Mink Stole. The only disapointment in the film comes from Ryan Star who mumbles her lines and has surprisingly little screen presence. The film has all the visual flare that fans have come to expect from a DeCouteau film, beautiful cinematography, locations shots, fast editing and beautiful people. I am always amazed at what he is able to accomplish on such tight budgets. This is perhaps his best work since THE FRIGHTENING. I really enjoyed it for what it is - a fun, low-budjet, goofy little horror film.