Synopsis: An old Gothic cathedral built over a mass grave develops strange powers that trap a number of people inside with the ghosts from a 12th Century massacre seeking to resurrect an ancient demon from the bowels of the Earth.
Continuing with the exploration of Michele Soavi’s work, we jump into The Church. Even though Soavi had been working in the genre for years, acting and Assistant Directing under such legendary names as Joe D’Amato, Lamberto Bava and Dario Argento, this was only his second attempt at directing a feature length film. Although being written and produced by Dario Argento, this Gothic horror has Soavi’s signature visual style all over it.
A thousand years ago, Templar Knights brutally slayed an entire town suspected of being devil worshiping witches. After the bodies were buried in a mass grave, a Cathedral was resurrected atop to seal the unholy evil away and prevent it from escaping and infecting the world. In the present day, renovations are underway which accidentally triggers a failsafe trapping numerous innocent souls in the building. At the same time, an unwitting church librarian breaks the seal, releasing the supernatural entity that infects everyone it comes in contact with.
I love me a good possession story and this one didn’t disappoint. My only complaint would be how it rushes itself in the third act. Damn near everything about this ticked the boxes of what I would consider a solid film though. You have an absolutely beautiful Gothic Church, that is pretty much a character in itself setting the vibe for this wild ride. The practical effects and gore were exactly what I’ve come to expect from Italian horror cinema. The overacting and spotty dubbing just lends a certain charm that only 1970/80’s flicks can get away with. Soavi’s camera work is experimental at times but used to a degree that adds to the atmosphere of an already creepy location. The highlight for me was seeing a young Asia Argento in what was one of her first few roles. Even though her on-screen time was limited, she played a key role in this film and it was interesting to see the start of an actor who grew up to be a favorite character of mine, Yelena in XXX (2002).
I definitely want to see more of Soavi’s work because I’m thoroughly enjoying the ride so far. Unfortunately there are only two more genre movies he directed before shifting to television but I’m pretty sure I’ll be tracking those down before the end of the month.
So, if possession horror is your thing, this wonderful little film can be found streaming on Tubi as of this writing. This one is absolutely worth the time.
Join me again tomorrow as we continue this strange little trip down the horror rabbit hole.
