Cast
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Crew
Director
- Clive Barker
Writer
- Clive Barker
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Forbidden presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Clive Barker brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1978, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Forbidden took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 36 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 96 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 379 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Forbidden shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Call, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Forbidden subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ashes of Doom and Why Try to Escape from That Which You Know You Can't Escape From? Because You Are a Coward explore similar territory, The Forbidden stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 1, 1978
- Runtime: 36m
