Jim Van Bebber's short film My Sweet Satan (1994) is supposedly based on real life character, who committed a horrible murder, was then sentenced to prison, where he finally killed himself by hanging. Director Van Bebber plays Ricky Kasslin, the main character, who is young fellow who listens to heavy metal, has one of the ugliest hair cuts ever, and acts like some animal, and believes that Satan is his Master and he loves Satan the most.
This film really makes me wonder why this kind of things happen. Those Satan worshippers are depicted miserable, but dedicated lost persons and souls, who find a meaning to their lives by worshipping and praising the Satan, the most evil thing imaginable. I think this film definitely doesn't promote Satanism, since the final phrase Ricky's friend says in prison is so underlining, and tells the opinion of writer/director.
This shortie has some very interesting cinematic elements, most notably the soundtrack which consists of different metal bands, but also very menacing sounds and moans which are played also backwards and create very ominous atmosphere and a feeling of evil and pure wickedness. Also, different kinds of camera techniques add to the atmosphere and the film is very great in its elements and visual power.
The infamous ending is very disturbing and graphic, and the whole short film is full of violent and off putting imagery like actual body piercing, blood and terror, but the last murder is the worst, and that murder finally led the main character to prison and suicide. The suicide is also very relentlessly and realistically depicted, so this film is definitely not nice to watch. The film is important since this madness really exists in the world and this film just shows some facts and asks couple of questions without moralizing. I liked this very much and appreciate the cinematic talent of Van Bebber and give this 9/10. This little film is not likely to be easily forgotten once experienced.
