Hellraiser (1987)

User Review

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  Hellraiser is obscure, imaginative and completely horrific. I've seen some weird films, particularly of the horror genre, but this is definitely up there. A couple move into rundown house but unbeknown to them there is an evil presence beneath the floor boards that seeks human flesh. But why? How? That's where the lovingly kind (don't forget fashionable) Pinhead comes on screen with his fellow Cenobites. Ohhh what a sight they are, can only imagine its what I look like after a night out and crawling through a bush. The plot is pretty much Sweeney Todd but with chains, leather and plenty of blood. Much like a sex dungeon right? (...just mine then). The inclusion of the puzzle cube and the Cenobites are what makes the story interesting and ominous. I'm sure there is thick lore behind this puzzle cube which I can only presume is explored further in the sequels. I admired the ambiguity and imagination that the plot conveys. The pace was inconsistent, I found the second act to be too slow and the constant flashbacks of the first act did confuse me at times. Typically there's an indication that we're watching a flashback, but in this it kept switching back and forth instantly with no transitions. Slightly jarring. The main star is the make up. Absolutely authentic and the real use of prosthetics and effects just heightens the originality. Clive Barker doesn't dream, he just conceives nightmarish visions and graciously puts his ideas on screen. Skin being pulled by chains or a pool of blood suddenly growing into a raw fleshy human thing (totally trademark that), it's strangely beautiful to watch and the technical aspects are admirable. The acting is as you would expect, nothing fantastic but gets the job done. The final scene with the homeless man was somewhat unexpectedly weird, wasn't too sure what to think about it. Also, I wanted more Cenobite action! Not nearly enough screen time! However, as 80's horror films go this is a strong addition to the genre and completely memorable. Particularly Pinhead...who will tear your soul aparrrrrrt!

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