On P List of Movie Reviews

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Prince of Darkness (1987)

Rate: 10
Viewed: 11/03, 4/07, 9/12

PrinceofD
4/07: At the hands of the famous Martin Quatermass, Prince of Darkness is a horror masterpiece that's often scary than not.

The story is so good that it feels possible. I love the high level of intelligence that's supplied by the characters who are students in the physics graduate program run by a professor with an interest in the paranormal.

What makes John Carpenter's films special is how he sets up the atmosphere before letting the plot unfold. As a result, the tension climbs while I'm allowed to be part of the show by feeling for the characters and what they're experiencing.

The acting is across-the-board excellent although I'm annoyed by one Asian male's penchant for lame jokes. Donald Pleasence is effective by showing off his Loomis personality.

All in all, Prince of Darkness is among the best John Carpenter films.

9/12: John Carpenter was one of the best horror directors during the 80's, and Prince of Darkness is why.

Why I love it is the intelligence. It's rare to see a film that features smart characters who will analyze a problem through scientific methods before deciding on the best course of action. There are scary moments. Even it's my fourth or fifth viewing, their effect hasn't subsided. The best is when the host almost brought out Prince of Darkness through the mirror as if it's a portal.

All in all, Prince of Darkness is a John Carpenter classic.