Doom Asylum

Doom Asylum, a cult classic from 1987, is a horror comedy that blends outrageous gore effects with rapid-fire comedic wit. A unique amalgamation of the horror and comedy genres, the film stands out, not just for its unique plot but also for the quirky characters that bring a distinctive flavor to its storyline. The film offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting the popular horror tropes of the late 80s. This late-night schlock fares well with fans of subversive and offbeat cinema.

The film features Patty Mullen who had primarily been known for her work in B-movies but is undoubtedly a reliable lead here. She plays her part with admirable aplomb, indicating her versatility as an actress. Ruth Collins, oozing charm and palpable fray, adds significant value to her role and delivers some genuinely unsettling moments. Kristin Davis, later famous for her role in "Sex and The City", in one of her earliest performances, is part of the victim-group and adds a touch of class to the film. Collectively, they offer a diverse and dynamic performance set that staunchly steers the storyline towards its macabre and comedic conclusion.

The plot of Doom Asylum revolves around an unethical attorney, Mitch Hansen, who after experiencing a brutal accident, turns into an undead monstrosity. Possessing superhuman strength and a never-dying desire for vengeance, post-transformation, Hansen takes up residence in an abandoned hospital — his gruesome lair, ominously named — the 'Doom Asylum'.

Ripe with the horror genre's staples – an eerie, old building, a disfigured, vengeful antagonist, and a group of teenagers – the story takes a turn for the unusual when the group decides to explore the Doom Asylum. Unaware of what lurks and waits for them, the teenagers unravel a story brimming with suspense and horror. The movie then takes on a wickedly dark comedic turn as it unfolds into a macabre dance of death, spiked with grotesque visuals and enough shock tactics to satisfy ardent fans of the gore-horror subset.

In terms of cinematography and visuals, Doom Asylum embraces its low-budget roots with pride. The on-location shooting in an actual, dilapidated asylum adds an unearthly and creepy air that is irreplaceable by studio setups. The extensive use of shadows and low lighting amplifies the fright factor, thereby maintaining the horror quotient.

The film's special effects deserve notable mention. The gore isn't treated as a token inclusion, but as an immersive part of the narrative. Talent and creativity are applied to make the gruesome and graphic action sequences as visually striking as possible. While some visual effects might seem dated by today's standards, they remain effective and possess a distinctive charm that makes them stand out.

One of the most alluring aspects of Doom Asylum is its tongue-in-cheek humor. The movie balances the horror with an undercurrent of humor that never dabbles with self-parody. From pun-laden dialogues to over-the-top performances, the film remains aware of its eccentric narrative, using it to concoct a potent cocktail of satire and terror that feels organic to the storyline.

The film's soundtrack, a quirky mix of atmospheric ambiance, and rock and roll music provides a unique audio backdrop to the narrative. The punk band featured in the movie adds a distinct layer of youthful energy which is both entertaining and palpable.

Beyond its gore and giggles, Doom Asylum comments subtly on themes such as greed, obsession, and the ethics of the medical profession. These underlying themes provide a depth to it that transcends the superficiality often associated with its genre.

In conclusion, Doom Asylum is a hidden gem from the late 80s, combining slasher horror, alarmingly offbeat humor, and outrageous gore. Its blend of comedy and horror creates a unique viewing experience that leaves an indelible mark on the viewer's psyche. It is worth watching to appreciate the distinctive flavor of late 80s horror-comedies and witness the early performances of some notable actors.