This movie's a mixed bag of horror goodies. On the one hand you have a great premise, a phenomenal ensemble cast with two strong leads (in the form of Byrne and Prochnow) of two distinct and contrasting personalities. The script also does not shirk from displaying the worst of humanity, personified by the SS.
None of which saves this film from a below-standard review. The crux of the problem is not the fact that it hasn't aged well - though the 2005 viewer will have to work hard to see past the rope effects, discordant music (supplied by Tangerine Dream - nice) and distinctly non-erotic sex scene - but rather the fact that the whole film feels unfinished. We do not find out where the monster comes from, nor where his nemesis fits into the picture, while the female lead's character is simply baffling in her stoicism. Several poorly edited shots also jar the viewer out of the experience, making the entire affair seem amateurish and sloppy.
The acting is patchy, with the cast straight-jacketed by an awkward script which offers some of the stronger players a few chances to shine (except Glenn, who is made to struggle along in an appalling whisper) but despite the opportunities the situation affords, this never rises above the mediocre.
All in all, this film is hard work, but worthwhile if you look at what was achieved with an obviously limited budget. Just don't expect a horror film in keeping with Mann's later abilities.
None of which saves this film from a below-standard review. The crux of the problem is not the fact that it hasn't aged well - though the 2005 viewer will have to work hard to see past the rope effects, discordant music (supplied by Tangerine Dream - nice) and distinctly non-erotic sex scene - but rather the fact that the whole film feels unfinished. We do not find out where the monster comes from, nor where his nemesis fits into the picture, while the female lead's character is simply baffling in her stoicism. Several poorly edited shots also jar the viewer out of the experience, making the entire affair seem amateurish and sloppy.
The acting is patchy, with the cast straight-jacketed by an awkward script which offers some of the stronger players a few chances to shine (except Glenn, who is made to struggle along in an appalling whisper) but despite the opportunities the situation affords, this never rises above the mediocre.
All in all, this film is hard work, but worthwhile if you look at what was achieved with an obviously limited budget. Just don't expect a horror film in keeping with Mann's later abilities.