My quick rating - 3,3/10. Never seen a clear backhand slap that knocked someone unconscious like that before LOL. A big problem with this movie is they are playing it far too seriously and took way too long to even get to anything supernatural or considered horror. In the shadowy corridors of crime and the occult, this flick attempts to weave a tale of redemption and demonic intrigue. Unfortunately, this film falls victim to its own ambitions, resulting in a lackluster narrative that struggles to find its footing. Despite a few fervent defenders, this movie does little to justify its inflated ratings, standing at a questionable 5.8 (at the time of writing) that is bound to plummet further. The premise, following a retired hitman forced back into the game to combat a Satanic cult, holds promise. Yet, the execution falters under the weight of uninspired directing (Randy Kent), lackluster design choices, and a script that often feels more like a checklist of genre tropes than a genuinely engaging story. It's just barely passable as entertainment, hovering frustratingly close to the realm of stupidity without ever managing to escape its gravitational pull. Passion clearly fueled this project; you can sense the dedication of the cast and crew to deliver something unique. Regrettably, the film's potential is squandered by its inability to break free from a lack of ideas and a non-existent budget. This is one of those times I don't think the budget was the problem though. While it's evident that everyone involved cared deeply about the project, passion alone cannot elevate a film to greatness. Technical aspects, notably the special effects, and makeup, are where this film stumbles the most. The reliance on plugin-based effects results in visuals that lack the necessary punch to evoke genuine fear or awe. The makeup, although interesting in concept, fails to achieve the level of artistry required to make you react in any other way but laugh. Calling this film a "masterpiece" would be an exaggeration of epic proportions. Instead, it's a lukewarm addition to the genre, a movie that you can safely skip without missing out on anything substantial. In the vast landscape of horror cinema, this is a forgettable apparition, haunting the peripheries of the genre without ever truly becoming a noteworthy presence. If you're seeking a gripping, well-executed tale of supernatural terror, you'd be wise to look elsewhere. This film, despite its best intentions, simply doesn't offer enough to warrant your time or attention.
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