Cinema Crazed

2006

Rated: R for graphic violence, gore, torture, and strong sexual content.

Genre: Foreign Horror Thriller

Directed By: Fabian Forte

Running Time: 1:24

Review by: Felix Vasquez Jr.

Review Date: 1/18/07

Special Features:
Behind the Scenes
Trailers
Subtitles

CARNAL

Now being released online in 3-5 minute intervals, "Carnal" is a new take on the vampire lore, something I'm always for. Forte’s “Carnal” begins pretty much like any other vampire film. Two hapless inadvertent center characters come across two very good looking women on a street one night, and little do they know what’s in store for them. We’ve seen this set up in films like “Lost Boys,” and “Near Dark,” but what makes Forte’s vampire thriller entertaining, is the sense of dread peppered in the first fifteen minutes. The neighborhood our characters roam in is always painted in a red tint, and there’s always a weird smell present. “Carnal” completely sideswiped me, and relinquished any fears of its offering to the vampire genre. Because Forte doesn’t just give us a run of the mill vampire movie. His film is filled with atmosphere, suspense, slow build up, and—best of all—a unique take on the vampire.

“Carnal” is very much an interesting horror twist in the vein of Argento or Miike, with two female vampires who act more as beasts than seductive whiny Goths. The two characters approach them on the street one night in hopes of sleeping with them, and they get their wish, alright. But in the haze of sex, and raw love making, the two discover something very odd about the women. Then Forte brings us in at eye level exploring the way these two trap their victims, sap all the fluids they need for consumption, and the medical methods required for this.

Usually, this would come off as monotonous, but Forte directs it all in such a way that I was utterly compelled to continue watching the whole way through. The women never show their fangs at any point, which is a plus. Because they act like predators more than demons. They fight for dominance, are territorial, and even engage in vicious fights to obtain control over the victims. “Carneal” is rich in texture, and sheer dread, and has some of the best direction I’ve seen in a low budget vampire flick… ever. Forte takes an entirely different glimpse of the vampire underworld exploring a human meat market, and methods to keep the victims alive and vulnerable. “Carnal” was surprisingly very good, not something you can say about independent vampire films, very often.

I was skittish about this new take, but Forte posits an interesting and original take on the vampire genre, with all the juicy vampire tidbits and none of the typical clichés, and story trappings. "Carnal" has the advantage of great direction, a slowly burnt story, and very good acting. It's worth a watch on their website. Take a look.

For more information on "Carnal" and its podcasts, and shorts, visit the official site: http://www.carnalthemovie.com

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