SERPENT AND THE RAINBOW REVIEWED
“The Serpent and the Rainbow” is an attempt to turn the classic zombie tale on his head by way of the based on a true story drama. Wes Craven was in a bad way during the late 80s, as he tried to distance himself from Elm Street. Coming on the coattails of Elm Street 3, “Serpent and the Rainbow” evoked films like “White Zombie” but with an 80s sensibility. Paul Winfield is stellar in a supporting role, as Bill Pullman fulfills the token stuffy lead. Still, the movie tries to force a greater meaning to voodoo.
Too many side characters and attempts to keep the American from learning about voodoo secrets gets boring. The only pay off comes from the scenes of real horror and deep Voodoo terror. For a movie that only comes in at 98 minutes, it feels like it takes hours to get the tense scenes. I first saw this flick as a kid and I remembered being floored by it. It’s weird how time changes your perception.
SPECIAL FEATURES
- Commentary
- Interviews
- Trailer
- Still Gallery
A/V QUALITY STATS
- DTS-HD 2.0 master audio track
- 1.85:1 1080p transfer