Syngenor

Syngenor, a 1990 science fiction horror film directed by George Elanjian Jr. and featuring an ensemble cast including Starr Andreeff, Mitchell Laurance, and David Gale, embodies the unsettling charm of creature features from the late 20th century. The plot hinges on an ambitious corporate conspiracy, a bio-engineered monster run amok, and a relentless struggle for survival.

The plot follows Norton Cyberdyne, a high-tech defense firm that has developed a groundbreaking weapon, not in the form of tangible artillery, but as a genetically engineered super-soldier. Dubbed the "SYNGENOR" (SYNthesized GENetic ORganism), this seemingly perfect soldier is devoid of fear, compassion, or the need for sustenance—barring a desire for water—that render even the most formidable human warriors vulnerable.

In the breathtaking performance by David Gale, we see the cunning and deceitful corporate executive, Carter Brown, who has masterminded this chilling operation. However, his grand vision goes awry when one of these horrifying creatures escapes the laboratory confines and embarks on a killing spree in the corporate building. Aware of the increasing body count and the potential havoc this could wreak if the creature were to make it outside the tower, Carter's nefarious plan starts to unravel.

Starr Andreeff portrays Susan, a software expert unwittingly thrown into the firm's deadly conspiracy. Her diligence and intellect are only rivaled by her courage and determination, as she navigates through dark secrets, labyrinthine corporate politics, and unimaginable horrors. Mitchell Laurance, playing the role of Ethan, the company's science officer, grapples with the moral complications of his role and his emerging feelings for Susan.

The unsuspecting building’s occupants, including a few meddling police officers, are gradually laid to waste by the rampaging SYNGENOR. Each encounter with the creature reveals more about its horrific capabilities and its frightening vulnerability to water.

Like many good creature features, Syngenor isn't just about gore and jump-scares. It offers a potent commentary on unchecked scientific exploration, manipulation of life forms, and the dehumanizing impact of corporate greed, dressing them up in the skin-tight suit of a hyper-agile, super-strength possessing mutant. There's also a critique of the military-industrial complex, the ethical implications of genetically engineered soldiers, and a broader inquiry into the horror trope of hubris, playing God, and the consequence of crossing boundaries that perhaps should not be crossed.

Syngenor leverages some impressive special effects of the time, coupled with a suspense-filled score that heightens the dread and terror of the lurking danger. At the same time, it doesn't shy away from showcasing its grotesque creation in full glory, laying the foundation for an array of grotesque, nightmarish scenes that are surely going to leave a deep impression on the viewers.

The portrayal of the SYNGENOR is arguably among the film’s biggest draws - a grotesque yet fascinating creation endowed with an alien aura. Its unrelenting violence and single-minded obsession with hunting down its targets create an ambiance of terror that pervades the film.

Despite its somewhat standard "monster on the loose" premise, Syngenor manages to rise above the usual fare with calculated suspense, a thought-provoking narrative, and a compellingly monstrous antagonist. Expect elaborate corporate conspiracy theories, dramatic turn of events, thrilling chases, and bloody encounters set in an isolated high-tech building that seems to harbor as many secrets as its dwellers.

Ultimately, Syngenor is an enjoyable tribute to the creature features from the past, with sufficient thrills and chills up its sleeve to engage the modern audience. Packed with science fiction and horror elements, the film succeeds in weaving a suspenseful narrative around a cutting-edge scientific project gone awry, making it a must-see for every genre enthusiast.