Having previously been impressed with the performance of Melantha Blackthorne in the film She Demons of the Black Sunwhich, which also starred Suzi Lorraine, I was interested to see how she fared playing a different type of role in Fable: Teeth of Beasts. On this occasion, she performs the role of Lilith Noir, female enforcer and protector who is engaged in fighting the forces of evil that lurk in a surreal and dismal location called Fable.
This is an ambitious film made by an independent company on a limited budget and they certainly make the most of the available resources. The complex and interesting story line crosses over various film categories including, SciFi, Action, Fantasy, Horror and even elements of Voodoo magic sprinkled with Goth undertones. The film deftly blends computer imagery with real action in the creation of a dark and nightmarish atmosphere as the story switches between different worlds. Slow movement and flickering lights plus an abundance of CGI effects combine to present the surreal backcloth to the action. The scenes are often claustrophobic and apocalyptic in a compelling story. I must admit that I was a little confused regarding the storyline and characters for about the first 15 minutes but after going back to the start I began to grasp the situation. This understanding was further enhanced by the introduction of a voice-over describing the background in the early part of the film - very neatly done.
My only minor criticism is that I felt the special/visual effects were slightly overcooked on some occasions, ie over utilised, and that actual locations could have been more effective, if used, instead of constructed studio sets. But I certainly appreciate that locations such as Ancient monuments similar to Stonehenge and old castle/abbey ruins would not be readily available especially if the budget was limited. But overall, this film ticked more positive boxes than negative.
The presence of Lilith Noir is the dominating one throughout the film. She is hard fighting and straight talking but one senses that beneath the surface there is a person who is vulnerable. Melantha Blackthorne performs this role with the perfect degree of gusto and enthusiasm. It is clear that she has ablly utilised her previous acting, stunt and modelling experience and ability in making the fullest visual impact on every scene that she strides into. She reminded me of Kathy Long's appearances in The Stranger and the current generation of Japanese action heroines who can now be seen in such films as Machine Girl, Azumi and Ninja Girl. I certainly look forward to future films featuring this versatile young actress.
