Las flores del miedo

I had the pleasure of viewing a visually-remastered version this film at a special showing, at which the director and writer of this film, José María Oliveira was present. I am not usually a fan of the horror genre, but Oliveira's film certainly checked all my boxes for a perfect movie. The story of Las flores del miedo, or Beware of Darkness as it was called for its American release, requires the viewer attention, but never becomes convoluted. The acting is well-done. This film features a minimal cast, but all do a good job. Oliveira utilizes blood and death, but his intent is to terrify, rather than to merely shock. Sex and sexual tension are a constant presence in this film, however this never becomes gratuitous. If you are not a religious person, then you will likely find the ending of the movie to be a bit hokey, but overall this is a grounded and cerebral film that treats its audience while also challenging it.