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World Fantastic Cinema

Masters of Horror - Season 2 : Family

John LANDIS

USA200658min Digi-Beta color Korean Premiere

Synopsis

A funny movie about a psychopath who commits serial killings to make his special family. Family stands out in Masters of Horror  Season 2 as it reveals the unique style of John LANDIS who always mixes bloody violence with a sense of humor. Harold seems to be a nice, caring person. However, he has a secret. Under the illusion of a perfect family, Harold enjoys talking with his family members who are nothing but dead bodies of the people who he killed. One day, a young and attractive couple has moved to next door and Harold who fell for the beautiful wife plans another murder. A serial killer living next door is a highly effective means of creating suspense in a movie. The irony that viewers know the real Harold but the young couple on the verge of falling prey to the serial killer find him a good neighbor is strikingly appealing. In addition, sudden incidents and reversals make the movie far more engrossing. Family proves that a solid storyline with a little bit of gore effects can make a good horror film. Most of all, the film features brilliant characters. 3 main characters leading the movie all do their own share wonderfully and George Werntz who played the psychopath Harold demonstrated the most outstanding performance among the 13 episodes of Season 2. In addition, KNB Group who did the special effects showed brilliant visuals that almost deserved the title of main character in a different sense. They described with utmost realism how Harold melted skin off the dead bodies with chemicals until the bodies became just bare bones. Thanks to their contribution, the gore scenes which are not many in numbers leave strong impression on viewers. Family captivates LANDIS‘ fans with perfect balance between fascinating storyline and attractive characters, gore effects and sense of humor. It truly reveals the genius and maturity of a real maestro. (KIM Jong Chul)

Diretor

John LANDIS

Borin in 1950 in Chicago, John Randis' low budget movie Blue Brothers recorded an astronomical profit in 1980, making him one of the most successful comedy directors of the 1980s. An American Werewolf in Paris (1981), which he wrote and driected, is considered one of most outstanding films on werewolves.