EP 1: EXORCIST III (1990) vs. SHARK EXORCIST (2015)
“Sharks, Demons, and Ketchup-blood--Oh My!”
This week, the theme is exorcism as we tackle literary legend William Peter Blatty's EXORCIST III: LEGION and schlock-master Donald Farmer's SHARK EXORCIST. Tune in for clips and discussion of these two conceptually linked and insanely different beasts!
Host: Nate Wyckoff
Panelists: Tad Mastroianni & Jeffrey Tucker
About THE EXORCIST III (1990):
The Exorcist III is a chilling horror film that acts as a sequel to the iconic 1973 classic, "The Exorcist." Directed by William Peter Blatty, the same author who penned the original novel, this cinematic offering effectively blends psychological terror and supernatural elements. It is based on Blatty’s novel titled “Legion,” and was released in the original director’s cut version decades after the movie’s initial release, which features a very different, “kinder” ending. The studio demanded a violent exorcism instead, citing audiences expected it.
The story takes place many years after the events of the first film, primarily focusing on Lieutenant Kinderman, played by George C. Scott. Kinderman, a seasoned police detective, finds himself perplexed by a series of gruesome murders that bear a striking resemblance to the Modus Operandi of a killer executed years ago, a serial murderer known as the Gemini Killer.
As the investigation progresses, Kinderman finds himself tangled in a web of intrigue when he discovers that the Gemini Killer has somehow returned, seemingly possessing the body of a psychiatric patient named James Venamun, played by Brad Dourif. The presence of evil forces makes Kinberman question his own beliefs and wrestle with the very nature of good and evil.
Throughout the film, the audience is subjected to intense scenes of horror, as the paranormal occurrences heighten. Kinderman engages in unsettling conversations and confrontations with James, who is possessed by the Gemini Killer. The interplay between George C. Scott and Brad Dourif injects a palpable sense of unease into every scene, as they delve into profound discussions about the nature of evil and the potential for redemption.
With chilling imagery, the film builds tension and fear, crafting memorable moments that serve as a stark contrast between the contrasting themes of faith and nihilism. It delves into the depths of the human psyche and explores the lengths to which evil can manipulate the vulnerable.
"The Exorcist III" is not only a compelling horror film, but it also serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the eternal battle between good and evil. Blatty's directorial vision immerses the audience in a world filled with dark twists, unexpected revelations, and gripping performances, culminating in a finale that leaves viewers questioning the very nature of reality.
Despite its release a decade and a half later, the film retains the essence that made the original "Exorcist" such a revered classic. It successfully contributes to the legacy of the franchise by delivering an eerie and unsettling cinematic experience that stays with audiences long after the credits roll.
About SHARK EXORCIST (2015):
In "Shark Exorcist," director Donald Farmer takes the horror genre to new depths by blending elements of possession and aquatic terror. Of course, the plot is SUPPOSED to be present, but we’re pressed to see it clearly. With unequal audio, characters wearing multiple outfits under their visible ones to toss outer layers away and film the next scenes, this is on of the weirdest and most impervious to logic films we’ve ever seen (and we’ve seen some wild ones!)
Set in a quaint lakeside town, the movie revolves around a demonic shark creature that becomes possessed by an evil spirit, wreaking havoc on the unsuspecting townsfolk. The film opens with a terrifying ritual performed by a mysterious woman at a cursed water source. Unbeknownst to the people swimming nearby, this wicked act sets the stage for a malevolent force to inhabit a great white shark lurking in the waters.
As the demonic shark begins its reign of terror, strange occurrences plague the town. People disappear, and bizarre incidents befall anyone who dares to venture too close to the water's edge. As fear and panic spread, the town's priest becomes convinced that the creature is possessed by a demonic entity and seeks to exorcise it.
Meanwhile, a small group of courageous individuals, including a tenacious journalist and a skeptical detective, teams up to uncover the truth behind the shark's supernatural origins. Their investigation leads them to the dark rituals and hidden truths of the lakeside community, where they discover the connection between the possessed shark and a vengeful spirit from the past.
The battle against the fearsome shark and the demonic possession takes its toll on the residents as they confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets. The possessed shark relentlessly stalks its prey, leaving a trail of blood and terror in its wake.
"Shark Exorcist" offers a unique blend of horror genres, combining the suspenseful and chilling elements of possession films with the primal fears evoked by a man-eating shark. Director Donald Farmer defies convention by merging these unlikely forces, weaving a tale that is as weird and campy as it is captivating and terrifying.
Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as "Shark Exorcist" takes you on a blood-soaked journey through the terror-filled depths of possession and aquatic horror.