Witchtrap is an almost forgotten little gem of a supernatural horror film. Hailing from the late 80s/early 90s straight to video boom, Witchtrap is low budget, low brow, and high camp. And yes, it’s a gem. Read on to find out why, Fiends…
Synopsis:
Taken from the US Vinegar Syndrome release:
For years, the Lauder House has been plagued by strange and violent occurrences. Unexplained deaths and seemingly supernatural activities have scared away all prospective tenants and buyers, but now its owners have decided to turn the old mansion into a bed and breakfast. Follow a team of paranormal experts as they attempt to remove the demonic forces and cleanse the property of all evil, through the use of a special device designed to lure in and trap evil spirits. But as soon as they arrive the violence begins again, as members of the team begin to meet increasingly bloody fates…
So, we have a fairly standard set up for a supernatural horror film. An isolated mansion, a terrible, mysterious history. And the requisite “evil spirit”. What more could you want?
Analysis:
Witchtrap is a pretty typical example of the straight to video market of the time. Reliant on the “star power” of it’s lead scream queen, Linnea Quigley, and goodwill from the directors previous films (Witchboard and Night of The demons), it does a pretty good job of luring you in. Right from the off, it is clear that there wasn’t a whole load of money available to the films makers. Sets are cheap, dressed in a perfunctory manner. The lighting is flat and television like. The camerawork is pretty basic, but does feature a few fancy shots to add value.
Acting wise, most of the cast seem to be either truly terrible actors, or realised that the film needed a stagey, hokey tone. The divine Ms. Quigley is comfortably the best actor in the film, even if she is the first to be killed off (albeit after a very gratuitous nude scene). everyone else is at “just above Troma” level. But this just adds to the films charms. The campy tone helps with the budgetary limitations, as it serves to entertain. Had the film been entirely straight, it would have been a slog to get through.
The films effects are brief, but pretty well handled. Sure, they look cheap and fake, but so did the effects in literally hundreds of similar straight to video titles of the time. The audience knew what they wanted, and Witchtrap delivered: Blood, boobs, and camp.
The Disc:
The disc I have is region 2 blu ray, issued in Germany by Digidreams Studios, under their “Classic Cult Collection” banner.
The extras are as follows:
- German, Spanish, & English Trailers.
- Artwork Galleries.
- An Interview With Linnea Quigley (dubbed in German).
Picture wise, the film looks pretty much as good as can be expected. The flat lighting gives the film a slightly dull apperance, and it can be a bit grainy at times. The 1:1.85 ratio looks pretty good. There is still some evidence of print damage, in the way of minor scratches, but nothing distracting. Audio tracks are both German & English 2.0 stereo.
Witchtrap: The Conclusion:
Witchtrap is a fun, throwaway little gem of 80s straight to video horror. It has just enough blood and boobs to keep it’s intended audience happy, yet offers campy treats for those wanting a little bit more. Overall, I’d reccomend it.
4/5 Fiends. Cheesy, campy fun.
Buy Witchtrap: Witchtrap Reg B on Ebay
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