The Resonator: Miskatonic U

"The Resonator: Miskatonic U" is a film based on the story "From Beyond" by H. P. Lovecraft, previously made into a movie by Stuart Gordon. This new version lacks the incredible special effects of the original version, which were realistic and gory, achieved by means of latex prostheses, the effects of this new film are digital and of very poor quality, highlighting only the makeup effects for the villain. The script is too poor perhaps because of the short duration of the film. The performances are decent bordering on almost bad, it should be noted that a big mistake was wasting the participation of the legendary horror film actress Amanda Wyss. The direction of William Butler (vaguely involved in the original version) is barely passable. Stuart Gordon would not be happy with this graceless remake, nor would H. P. Lovecraft be pleased with the result. The movie has the allure of Full Moon productions, but it might have worked better in the 80's, 90's or even the early 2000's. A bad movie but entertaining in some scenes.

The really bad reviews must be written by people completely unfamiliar with Full Moon. If you know Full Moon & have appropriate expectations, this is certainly one of their more enjoyable features in recent years IMO. Its not a bunch of silly nonsense played as a big joke like the bulk of Full Moon's current catalogue. The story is told straight, with effects that stay in line with the original film and also includes some direct tie ins. The main problem with this movie is the overly attractive fashion model style cast. The movie could gain a few more levels of credibility & seriousness if it would have just cast real looking people, instead of eye candy. I'm sure plenty of the Full Moon fanbase won't take any issue with the hot girls in schoolgirl uniforms though.

If you are a Lovecraft fan, you will like it for what is is, and not be shocked at what it is... But, why in the hell is Miskatonic University in California?!

I'm fascinated with Full Moon Features from a low budget movie production standpoint but I'll admit that their production choices are about as antithetical to what I prefer, as they can get. Flatly lit, uninspired camera work, bad acting, and basic After Effects level VFX. When I turned on The Resonator I fully expected to turn it off after five minutes, like I do with pretty much every post 90s production from Full Moon but instead, I was hooked. If you can get past all of the above mentioned flaws (and believe me, I don't blame anyone for not wanting to) there's actually a good story here with a lot of heart. An unofficial (and I'm sure unauthorised but what ya gonna do? It's in the public domain.) sequel to From Beyond, the cast give it their all and the creature work is actually pretty on point, probably by newcomers who have a lot of passion and something to prove. Unfortunately, they don't stick the ending but the effort was enough to make me take note. Is it a recomend? Only for the most diehard cheesy horror movie fans or filmmakers looking for some low budget inspiration. Anyone else will probably throw tomatoes at the screen, as well as at me if I told them to go watch it.

The positive. They resurrected a great film by Gordon. Got the basics correct. The negative. Horrid effects in places. I mean just awful. The practical effects are decent. Overuse of cgi and the effects aren't very good. Truly some poor cgi work. Costumes are passable at least. Story is kind of meh. Better than nothing I guess. I have a feeling this show will get very opposing opinions.