Phantasm (1979)
Directed by: Don Coscarelli
The fate of a small town rests on the shoulders of one brave young kid named Mike. When he suspects sinister powers in the mist. Can Mike save the town from the clutches of the Tall Man before it's too late?
Yet, another film that has slipped through the cracks of movies I haven't watched. I realized watching this that I sincerely have a love for late 70s horror. You have a strong story, good effects, an alluring plot, and solid settings. I have yet to notice myself say otherwise. I loved the ending although tragic it really leaves you wondering and man I want to know more. If you missed this classic 70s film give a shot because you're truly missing out!
More of an analysis:
Moments in you're reeled into one hell of a story. A young boy witnesses some strange occurrences in his town. Stemming from the strange yet cruel death in someone close to him. While others just simply mark this off and move on, young Mike doesn't. He is determined to figure out what is going on. He realizes something is going on and quite possibly the Tall Man that lingers around has something to do with it.
No matter how close Mike gets the Tall Man just appears to be one step ahead. Who is he? What does he want with Mike and his town?
There's a lot to take in and a lot to interpret. Yet again, another film that is simply best to suggest to just let all reserves set a side and experience it. It is an experience and really is open to your own personal interpretation. I found it interesting that in my research I found numerous probabilities. That way my own interpretation is a grain in the sea of fellow reviewers out there.
It was brilliant. You're lead to believe that everything is playing out but many points through out the film you get hints that the ending is just a shot away. That Mike in his own way is fighting the Tall Man who is the symbol of death and he's coping with the loss of his brother. He's left in the care of their friend. He still can't help but wonder what really happened and you realize you do. That his brother met his demise at the hands of the Tall Man. At least, that is what I got from it. It is tragic and it is poetic in a way.
The innocence a child experiences when death comes a little too close to comfort. It was tragic yet symbolic. Every stage he got closer he found some closer but we have that cliff hanger to really leave us wondering where Mike is now. At least, for those of us who haven't seen the following films. I eagerly await to have more of my questions answered and figure out what else is in store.
Give this film a try if you haven't. You won't regret it. In fact, you'll be wanting to know more information as the scenes follow.
10/10
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