Blame it on the Ouija (Witchboard (DVD))

Member Name: Beggar James

Product:	Witchboard (DVD)
Date:	15/01/02 (413 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Better than most 80s genre films

Disadvantages: A few flaws

'Witchboard' is quite a rarity amongst 80s horror films in that it relies upon atmosphere and suspense rather than gore or nudity. Although not a classic, this is an entertaining, interesting genre film, which deserves more recognition.

'Witchboard' is certainly one of the better films to have made use of that creepy device, the ouija board. Strangely, the Ouija has never been all that popular with horror filmmakers and it has only appeared intermittently in the genre. In the past, it has been utilised as a plot device mainly in occult or suspense thrillers, such as 'The Exorcist'. In the 1980s in particular, supernatural themes were generally played down in favour of masked maniacs on a slashing spree. 'Witchboard' goes some way to reconciling the two approaches, attempting to draw the best elements from both sub-genres. As a result, it gives us a central villain who knocks off victims one by one, yet tries to keep a sense of mystery to the proceedings.

The plot follows Linda (played by the excellently named Tawny Kitaen) who becomes obsessed with the ouija board. During an apparently harmless game at a party, the spirit of a young boy named 'David' is contacted. After the party, Linda keeps on using the Ouija to talk to David, despite warnings from a friend that the young boy is actually an evil spirit in disguise. Soon it becomes obvious that a malevolent force has taken hold of Linda, and sure enough, people start to die....

'Witchboard' is both written and directed by Kevin Tenney, who was also responsible for the superb 'Night of the Demons' (1987). His approach in the latter film could not have been more different, where he piled on gore and nudity, completing eschewing chills in favour of visceral thrills. However, with 'Witchboard', it is with his restraint that he impresses. Although there is blood and skin on show, Tenney makes a real effort to generate suspense.
The film has some impressive camera work, which gives a real sense that the characters are indeed being watched by an otherworldly force. From this there are a few genuinely tense moments, and the film builds nicely towards its climax. It has to be said that the last reel of the film does veer towards the ridiculous, and as a result, it does lose some of its momentum. Despite this, and a few issues with pacing, the film remains entertaining throughout and is at least more original than most other films of the time.

The acting in 'Witchboard' is above average for the genre, and there are no particularly grating performances. It may sound strange citing this as a positive aspect of the film, though it should be recognised that horror films during the 80s were known to contain some of the most terrible acting ever committed to celluloid. Former rock video girl Tawny Kitaen, who younger viewers may recognise from the 'Hercules' TV series, is respectable enough in the central role. She turned up a fair few times in the 80s, most memorably in the early Tom Hank's comedy, 'Bachelor Party' (1984). The rest of the cast are pretty much forgettable, though fans of the director's work may spot a few familiar faces.

This is not really a film for gore hounds, and those seeking slaughter. Although there are a few bloody moments, especially towards the climax, this is a film, which is unlikely to churn the stomach of all but the meekest viewer.

Overall, I would definitely recommend seeking out 'Witchboard'. It stands well above most 80s horror films, and offers something slightly different to the standard of the time. Fans of the occult will especially enjoy this, one of the few modern films to make good use of the ouija board.

Note: This film has a couple of sequels, both of which are absolutely dire, and should be avoided.

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