Monday Movie Review - SEASON OF THE WITCH

I initially rented this movie not because I'm a Nic Cage fan, but because I'm also a Ron Perlman fan from way back in the days of "Beauty and the Beast". So it wasn't surprising how much I enjoyed this historical piece. It's basically a "buddy" movie, with both Nic and Ron getting equal opportunity to chew the scenery. But there's also a neat story.

In the time of the Crusades, two knights are selected to transport a supposed witch to a special monastery. The monks believe witchcraft is the cause behind the Black Plague, and they hope to coerce the witch into cancelling the spell or whatever it is that has brought about the infection.

The blood is sparse, but the gruesomeness of the disease is very prevalent (along with some fantastic makeup FX.) Cage and Perlman make very convincing knights who may be past their prime age-wise, but who still maintain a commanding presence, as well as superb expertise with the sword. 

The ending was my only gripe. It was a bit "meh" for me, but otherwise I can't quibble.

Which means my recommendation is that you:

Monday Movie Review - BLACK DEATH

I was lucky to see this on HDNet prior to it hitting theaters.  And I have to admit I was very impressed.

Back in the 14th century, when the Bubonic Plague hits Europe, people begin blaming witches as the cause.  At a monestary, some monks welcome a small group of soldiers who have arrived seeking help.  The leader, Ulric, informs the priests that they have heard of a village where there have been no outbreaks, and they want a monk to help provide guidance.  A young monk named Osmund, who was born near the area, offers to go with them.

Once they arrive at the village, at first it appears that the plague has bypassed them.  But then they realize that a more horrific evil has taken hold in the town.

The film's atmosphere is intense.  The plague and the terror it incites are brutally realistic.  Although the gore is not over the top, it still makes you cringe.  I have seen a few movies detailing the black plague, but in my opinion this is probably the best.

That's why my whole-hearted recommendation is that you