Severin Films has released a new 4K UHD/Blu-ray edition of the 1975 cult horror film, The Devil's Rain, offering a visually impressive transfer that highlights the movie's strengths, particularly its practical effects and unique atmosphere. While the film has garnered a following over the years, this release allows audiences to appreciate its ambitious elements, even as it falls short of true cinematic greatness.
The Devil's Rain centers on the Preston family, cursed by Satanist leader Corbis, portrayed by Ernest Borgnine. Corbis seeks to reclaim a registry of his followers, souls trapped within a receptacle known as the Devil's Rain, to fulfill an infernal pact. When matriarch Emma (Ida Lupino) and son Mark (William Shatner) disappear, younger brother Dr. Tom Preston (Tom Skerritt), his ESP-sensitive wife Julie (Joan Prather), and colleague Dr. Sam Richards (Eddie Albert) must confront Corbis.
Despite a strong cast, including Borgnine's menacing performance and Shatner's surprisingly restrained turn, the film struggles with narrative clarity and pacing. It opens with a bleak, disturbing atmosphere, reminiscent of Hieronymus Bosch paintings, and features striking cinematography with desolate vistas. However, the casting of a 44-year-old Shatner as the son of a 57-year-old Lupino strains credulity. The movie often demands viewers piece together crucial information, a stylistic choice that may alienate some while adding to the film's unique, bleak charm for others.
A Spectacle of Practical Effects
The true stars of The Devil's Rain are the practical effects crafted by Tom Burman and Ellis Jr. Borgnine's transformation into a horned, goat-like figure and the climactic melting sequences of the cultists are particularly memorable celebrations of the era's special effects capabilities. While the eyeless look of Corbis' disciples may show its age in high definition, with the eye coverings visible, the overall effect remains striking. The film also features an arresting image of black-robed, eyeless minions in a windswept ghost town, a visual that lingers long after the credits roll.
William Shatner's role, though limited to the first third and end of the film, has generated notable discussion. His performance includes a scream that predates his iconic "Khannnnnn" in Star Trek II, and a shirtless scene reminiscent of The Omega Man. Furthermore, a lifecast of Shatner's face created for this production is famously said to have been used by Don Post to create the Michael Myers mask from Halloween, with Shatner even appearing to originate the character's signature head tilt.
Missed Opportunities and Cult Appeal
While the film boasts impressive practical effects and a compelling antagonist in Borgnine, a significant missed opportunity lies in its protagonist. The narrative would have benefited from centering on Julie, the outsider character, allowing the audience to learn about the supernatural elements alongside her. Instead, the more conventional character of Tom Preston is given the lead, a choice that, combined with a less dynamic second act, prevents the film from reaching its full potential.
Despite its flaws, The Devil's Rain offers significant cult appeal and connections to other notable films in the horror and science fiction genres. The Severin Films 4K UHD/Blu-ray release includes numerous bonus features, such as interviews with makeup artist Tom Burman, who confirmed the film was financed by Mafia money, and commentary tracks from director Robert Fuest and film historian Stephen R. Bissette. These additions provide valuable insight into the production and enduring legacy of this unique piece of '70s paranormal kitsch.