Satanic Hispanics has received a lukewarm response from critics and audiences, but a film like this has to be seen to be properly judged. You can’t always rely on the words of others, and you’re doing yourself a disservice by not giving it a shot. I’ve been looking forward to it for quite some time, though I skipped the VOD release, holding out for the physical release from Epic Pictures and Dread. It was worth the wait, and I wasn’t disappointed.
After the police raid a home in El Paso, Texas, they discover it to be full of dead Latinos. Upon further inspection, they discover one survivor, known only as ‘The Traveler’ (Efren Ramirez). He’s taken in for questioning, but the two detectives (Sonya Eddy and Greg Grunberg) aren’t sure how they should proceed when he warns them that San La Muerte is on the way to kill him and anyone who crosses its path.
In order to get his point across, ‘The Traveler’ begins to tell them tales of the macabre rooted in Hispanic mythology. Hopefully, they believe his tales before it’s too late, and Saint Death lays waste to them all.
What’s great about Satanic Hispanics is that it’s a complete roller coaster ride from start to finish. The four tales within the narrative run the gamut from frightening to funny. Mike Mendez (The Convent) handles the wraparound story, “The Traveler,” which showcases a terrific performance from Efren Ramirez, who is often criminally underused. “También Lo Vi” is a wicked ghost story from Demian Rugna (Terrified), leaving me with goose bumps.
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The Blair Witch Project co-director Eduardo Sanchez delivers the hysterical “El Vampiro” that follows a vampire (Hemky Madera) scrambling to get home because he forgot about Daylight Savings Time. Gigi Saul Guerrero (Bingo Hell) directs “Nahuales,” which features terrific make-up effects and a story that delves deep into Hispanic folklore with a group of Nahual.
Finally, there’s “The Hammer of Zanzibar” by Alejandro Brugues (Juan of the Dead). It stars Jonah Rey Rodriguez in a wacky tale about a guy facing down a demon that can shape-shift. This one felt like it was paying homage to Sam Raimi in a sense. Each short has something to appreciate and enjoy, making Satanic Hispanics a success in my book.

Film fans will notice a few cameos like Chaton Anderson (The Convent) and Jessica Cameron (Song of Solomon). The effects work is predominantly practical and very impressive. I love the creature designs, and I can see this film growing into a possible franchise.
There’s a wealth of Hispanic folklore that can be mined by the ever-growing Hispanic genre filmmakers who are changing the horror landscape one film at a time.
The disc includes a poster gallery, directors’ commentary, and a Dread Talk with four of the five directors. Despite its minor flaws, Satanic Hispanics checks all the boxes while showcasing all the talent involved in what’s sure to become a modern cult classic.
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