Frightmare (1983) is a film that tends to be overlooked, or at the very least, confused with the 1974 film of the same name. There have been multiple versions of the film released, including the newly released edition from Vinegar Syndrome. Why Troma needs to reissue it on a standard Blu-ray is a mystery to me; I’m under the assumption that it’s a more cost-effective option for those who can’t always afford a premium release. Either way, the Troma edition is perfect for casual viewers, and I was really excited to finally sit down with this one.
Once a revered horror icon, Conrad Radzoff (Ferdy Mayne) has slipped into indignity, reduced to spoofing his famous vampire role in a tacky dentures commercial. After his death, well-meaning but misguided members of the Horror Film Society break into his lavish, neon-marked tomb and steal his body, planning a macabre farewell party in his honor.
Their devotion, however, unleashes a far greater horror. Unbeknownst to his fans, Radzoff dabbled in black magic during his lifetime, granting him the power to rise from the grave. Reawakened and enraged, the resurrected star seeks bloody revenge on those who disturbed his eternal rest.
As far as storytelling and character development go, Frightmare comes up a little short. The characters can be annoying and unlikable most of the time. The acting is good, but I just wasn’t really feeling much for them. Ferdy Mayne ‘s performance as Radzoff is incredible, though. He’s having a blast here, adding his own flair to a role that feels like equal parts Vincent Price and Christopher Lee. It should also be noted that just two years before his career-defining role as Herbert West in Re-Animator, Jeffrey Combs appears in a small role as one of the society members.
The movie starts with a campy sense of humor, but eventually shifts into an obvious homage to Gothic horror. It’s definitely atmospheric in a way that feels like a reminder of old Hammer horror films. The death scenes are dramatic without being graphic, so some might be disappointed in that respect, but it’s not a deal breaker.
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The Troma release of Frightmare includes most of the same special features as the special edition from Vinegar Syndrome. Their version contains a reversible sleeve that contains the original title of The Horror Star. The hardcore Troma fans will enjoy the bonus features as well. Overall, Frightmare is an extremely fun horror flick with a central performance that really defines the film.
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