Puppet Master: Axis of Evil

Puppet Master: Axis of Evil is a captivating 2010 horror film directed by David DeCoteau, marking the ninth entry in the charismatic Puppet Master franchise. With a veteran cast including Levi Fiehler, Jenna Gallaher, Taylor M. Graham and Tom Sandoval, the movie combines elements of historical fiction, suspense and horror together to conjure a chilling narrative filled with thrills.

The movie is set against the backdrop of World War II, a historical context that adds extra depth and layers of intrigue. The film introduces viewers to a world where the supernatural coexists with reality, where puppets aren't just children’s toys, but living beings capable of evil, plunder, and havoc. Levi Fiehler breathes life into the character of Danny Coogan, a young man who aspires to be a ventriloquist. Fiehler shines in the role, showing a range of emotions, from hope to desperation and courage, making Danny a compelling and relatable protagonist.

As the narrative advances, Danny Coogan comes into possession of mysterious puppets crafted by the recently deceased Andre Toulon (portrayed in flashbacks by actor William Hickey, maintaining continuity with the original 1989 film). These are no ordinary dolls but bewitched puppets possessing a life of their own; fearsome warriors wielding their unique abilities. Whether it’s Blade with his sharp lethal arm-blades, Pinhead with his superhuman strength, or Tunnelzer with his impenetrable drill-head, each puppet boasts its own sinister allure and abilities.

Meanwhile, Jenna Gallaher plays the role of Danny's girlfriend, Beth, who quickly finds herself in the midst of this eerie chaos. Gallaher delivers a strong performance, communicating her character’s journey from ignorance to the grim awareness of the unearthly puppet power residing within her boyfriend's box.

Thrown against the ominous backdrop of World War II, the story unfolds in San Francisco's Chinatown. In these early days of U.S. involvement in the war, tension in the city is high. Axis spies lurk around every corner while American patriotism swells. The plot thickens when Danny and Beth find themselves tied up in a dangerous mission. The allure of the film lies in its seamless blend of historical events, horror, and the added sci-fi elements that make it unlike any other wartime drama, embodying an original fusion of genres.

Taylor M. Graham plays Max, the crafty brother of Danny who is both intrigued and alarmed by the strange events of his brother's life. Graham brings depth to an otherwise secondary character, adding another layer to the storyline. Unfolding in tandem with Danny's puppet dilemma, Max’s subplot involves his work at a bomb factory and his run-ins with villainous Axis spies.

Tom Sandoval, known for his performance in popular reality show “Vanderpump Rules,” meanwhile, plays Don Coogan, Danny's older brother. His militaristic manner and patriotism add an authentic touch to the movie’s wartime backdrop. Sandoval delivers a nuanced performance despite his limited screen time, transitioning from a rough military man to a subtly caring brother.

Director DeCoteau’s unique style plies within the Puppet Master: Axis of Evil. The horror, overshadowed by terror of a different kind—the war—is woven seamlessly into the story. The suspense never wanes as characters navigate espionage, horror, and lost innocence amid a period of global hostility. The film serves as a tantalizing prequel to the original Puppet Master, effectively dusting the cobwebs off the franchise and giving it a fresh shot of adrenaline.

Cinematographer Terrance Ryker's keen eye for crafting intricate and chilling scenes filled with dread and suspense sets the tone of Puppet Master: Axis of Evil, matching the tension of the narrative beat for beat. Paired with Jessica Morris’s engaging art direction, the visuals become a central element of the film, capturing the dingy corners of wartime San Francisco and the atmospheric eeriness surrounding the supernatural puppets.

Overall, Puppet Master: Axis of Evil stands as a worthy installment in the Puppet Master franchise, thrilling audiences with its unusual blend of supernatural horror and historical drama. The film boasts potent performances by the ensemble cast and admirably hooks audiences with its thrilling homage to its heritage while introducing fresh themes tinged with impending war terror. For fans of the franchise or for someone looking for a movie that combines unusual genres, this horror-filled World War II era film is a must-watch.