For as big of a horror fan as I am I’ve never picked up an issue of Fangoria. I feel as though I can feel the judgment working its way through the internet to me writing this right now. For real, though, as a fan of the genre – it is one of my biggest regrets. Even now to hunt them down they can sometimes fetch a pretty penny. Though, I am fascinated about how big of a deal the magazine was and how big it grew to be. Growing as big to not just write about movies but even making them. Some people may have forgotten but Fangoria did get into the movie making industry circa 1992. That movie in question was a quirky, little science fiction fantasy film called Mindwarp.
Mindwarp depicts a post-apocalyptic society in which a young woman named Judy (Marta Martin) is exiled from her VR community, befriends Stover (Bruce Campbell) & the two struggle to make their way back to the main land. When you have a film that’s plot continuously unfolds, you need to get something to continuously grab the attention of the viewer. Not to say that the plot of this movie is bad, I do have issues but we’re not quite there yet. The production design of Mindwarp by Kim Hix, costume design by Ida Gearon, and make-up department of Felicia Linsky are the real stars of the film. Hix, Gearon and Linksky seriously lean into a beautifully grotesque world of monsters, mutation and even politics. Consistently delivering practical effects that rival some of Hollywood’s most iconic blockbusters. The trio create a visual presence that is as bizarre as it is beautiful.
As previously mentioned, the plot has its own issues. While the film continuously keeps viewers on the edge of their seat – the mythology of the world feels a bit misplaced. Creating a story that is visual without explanation until the big climatic ending. Not a bad way to tell the story but could potentially turn viewers off at the same time. With a plot like that, you need a strong premise, which Mindwarp strongly delivers. John Brancato & Michael Ferris, credited as Henry Dominick, do a marvelous job as the screenwriters of this movie. Creating an intense, sometimes political, and extraordinarily engaging story. When it is met with the directing of Steve Barnett – the perfect science fiction story is brewed. Let’s not forget about the amazing performances from Campbell & Martin. The two have incredible chemistry and continuously pour into the engaging world and mythos which Mindwarp is creating.
Overall, Mindwarp, is a slow burn sci-fi thriller worth waiting until the end. Marvelously led by Bruce Campbell and Marta Martin – Mindwarp is Mad Max meets Little Monsters. While the plot doesn’t explain itself until the near end, Campbell and Martin keep viewers engaged into this rich world and mythology. You may have paid for the whole seat but you’re only going to need the edge of it. The visual nature of Mindwarp is another level all its own. The make-up, costume and production departments craft an original world that breathes life into its unique identity. Mindwarp will warp your mind and senses – there is nothing else like it. Strong cast, strong writing, strong design – plug into this one!
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Credits: Mindwarp is property of Fangoria Films and Mill Creek Entertainment. We do not own nor claim any rights. To purchase your copy from Mill Creek Entertainment, click here.