During a chance encounter with an evil witch, Blair Jensen, a beautiful young woman, becomes cursed with the mark of evil. Like a magnet, every evil creature in existence is drawn to her, intent on destroying her life and those around her. Desperate to break the curse, Blair must survive encounters with vampires, ghosts, ghouls, and zombies, all the while trying to find a way to reverse the witch’s spell. Can she break the curse before true evil consumes her, her estranged daughter, and everyone she cares for? Or will she fall to the darkness that surrounds her?
Obsidian curse has the production value of an 80's porno with a score and acting talent to boot. I was honestly half expecting people to start whipping dicks out or taking their tops off for a good twenty minutes into the film (and was genuinely a little disappointed it didn't happen). This is absolutely one of those so bad it's good B-grade films. I would definitely not consider it an indie film; it's more in the vein of a cheaper production that is trying to knock off a bigger upcoming feature — like when you accidentally rented Atlantic Rim instead of Pacific Rim...except I can't think of what bigger film this is meant to be riding the slipstream of.
The plot, specifically the cursed mark afflicting the protagonist — attracting all the evil entities in existence — is very much borrowed from the popular manga/anime Berserk. That said, Berserk itself borrows heavily from Hellraiser lore, so this could just be horror coming full circle. General plot aside, Obsidian Curse is a bird of a different feather entirely, with unique, creepy monsters, decent special effects & makeup, and great, otherworldly entities. The creatures and effort put into their realisation are honestly the best part of the film. Some are a little cheesy, but most have that definitive creep-factor that make for a decent horror film.
While the general feel of the film is unmistakably cheap, it's not without its charms. The protagonist, Blair Jensen (Karin Brauns), quickly grows on you; her personal struggles and drive to reunite with her daughter is both admirable and entertaining. The backstory is decent and the plot actually progresses with a good pace — something uncommon in B-grade films. Sure, there are plot-holes aplenty and numerous film faux pas, but as a whole, it is an endearing and enjoyable experience.
I enjoyed it. It was a good B-movie and an entertaining watch. There are plenty of things most would consider laughable, but we aren't most. The film takes many liberties with its plot and backstory, especially in the last act, but it holds true to its own character. A mash of too many tropes to count, Obsidian Curse is campy fun that is meant to be nothing more than enjoyable to its intended audience. It's a metaphorical cheese platter, but one that sates a number of tastes. If you want some good, B-movie fun, give it a chance. I'm doubtful it's going to take any awards, but it's a rewarding experience nonetheless. Thanks for reading and as always, stay sordid. Catch the trailer below and the release dates and links if you feel so inclined.
Starting October 2, OBSIDIAN CURSE will be available to buy/rent on DVD and the following platforms: iTunes, Amazon Instant, Google Play, PlayStation, Xbox, Vudu, FandangoNow, and On Demand through your local cable provider.
