It reminded me of how New York filmmaker Andy Milligan shot his no-budget exploitation films in England. The accents lent an air of sophistication that he couldn’t otherwise afford. The German dialogue also increases the foreboding atmosphere, adding to the already eerie Hansel and Gretel vibe. The cinematography and lighting are solid, with a professional look and some creative choices, particularly regarding the horned god. With a rubber mask that could potentially upend the gravity of the threat, the horned god is shot at angles with varying levels of focus to keep him ominous.
There is also a red laser eye effect that is sometimes added that is extremely effective. It is moves like this along with the tone dead serious that keep the film from decomposing into cheese. Demigod may sometimes flicker into camp, but overall maintains a very strong creep factor. Even for myself, who is already a big fan of indie horror, I was impressed by the high levels of production value achieved here.
“…a remarkable example of what small productions can pull off…”
Nichols does an excellent job of holding down the lead as well as the sense of normalcy that is under attack. The intensity she undergoes feels genuine. The witches are also amazing. Williams, as Hettica, is terrifying and also fooled me into believing this American actress was German. Sanchez is perfect as Latara, creating a fearsome beast behind her beauty. She gets some especially poignant moments at the end that could have come right out of a Jean Rollin classic. However, the superstar turn here is delivered by Fisher as Fell. Fell is a horror icon waiting to happen, the way she slithers around chewing up guts and caressing skulls. Fisher did her own stunts as well, and her command of movement keeps viewers hypnotized.
Demigod is an excellent addition to the folk horror sub-genre and a remarkable example of what small productions can pull off these days. It’s effectively creepy, well-acted, and thoroughly engaging. So let the pumpkin spice-flavored blood flow!
"…let the pumpkin spice-flavored blood flow!"
