Where The Devil Roams, the latest collaborative project from the Adams Family (my favorite homegrown indie creatives) is arguably their most daring venture into the realm of carnage.
Family members John Adams, Toby Poser, and their daughter Zelda take on the roles of directors, writers, and actors in this captivating horror film. Set during the Great Depression era, the story follows Maggie (Poser) and Seven (John Adams) as they travel with their daughter Eve (Zelda Adams) who is a beautiful singer, but otherwise cannot speak. They travel with a troupe of carnival performers across rural America. In their wake, they leave behind a trail of bodies, victims of their ruthless acts of violence and plunder.
Seven, a returned soldier, suffers from nightmares of past experiences. He is blindfolded during the family’s gruesome performances. Meanwhile, Eve, a quiet and enigmatic character, captures photographs of their victims. Inspired by a carnival performer named Mr. Tibbs (Sam Rodd), Eve learns about his deal with the devil that enables him to reattach severed body parts. However, as they seek to gain power over forces beyond human control, the story takes an even darker turn. Eve, who dons an angelic costume when on stage, offers a fascinating experience with this dichotomy of good and evil, angel and devil.
A Mystical Great Depression
The film skillfully intertwines the family’s struggles during the Great Depression with a mystical dark magic that exacts a heavy toll. They are headed toward their dream, to perform at the Buffalo Horror Show, which sets the stage for the final climax.
Zelda Adams delivers a fantastic performance once again, captivating us with her understated yet mesmerizing talent. Toby Poser also shines, portraying her character with brutal intensity. There’s an electricity and cohesion in this family unit that always makes them a delight to watch.
Where The Devil Roams is a visually poetic work of bloody artistry. The combination of black and white and color cinematography, along with meticulous production design, brings the period setting to life. The film exudes a gritty and punk rock aesthetic that complements its tonal qualities and adds to its raw appeal.
Undoubtedly, this is the Adams Family’s most audacious film to date, and it stands as a commendable and unforgettable piece of dark delights. Like a cherished vinyl record, it carries a sense of well-worn familiarity while introducing a fresh tune to the mix. Their undeniable talent shines through once again, evident in the confident production of this film.
There is a big supporting cast (including Lulu Adams) with a rich environment of the carnival world. It’s large in scope yet still feels intimately balanced with their family at the center.
With its striking visuals and captivating storytelling that delves deep into lore and temptation, Where The Devil Roams feels like a blend of Freaks and a Rob Zombie creation, all with the distinctive Adams Family vibe. The sideshow aesthetic, which seems tailor-made for the family’s creative hands, exudes a certain charm amidst its madness. The attention to detail, particularly in the exceptional cinematography, is commendable. Their soundtrack, another distinctive Adam’s element, rocks.
This unsettling and bleak tale possesses a chilling dissonance that works, although at times it may feel somewhat emotionless. If Where The Devil Roams has any shortcomings, it is in the occasional disconnect that arises from this aspect.
The script, which features some colorful dialogue and monologues, dips mid-way through as the action slows and the film feels unsure of itself. It’s a resonably simple premise with the film resting on its stylistic flourishes. As it comes back around, Where the Devil Roams secures its hold on the audience.
Something that always stands out is their clear love for the art form. It comes through in their dedication and passion. This is a carnie tale with substantial flair and delicate precision. Sometimes the script may falter, but the performances and technique do not. Their previous project, Hellbender, which I absolutely adored, may have been stronger at times and perhaps more universally alluring, but this is admirably daring.
Conclusion
This grim and gothic narrative serves as further evidence that the Adams Family is one of the most impressive forces in the indie filmmaking community. The film incorporates unique elements of dark comedy and features plenty of their signature music. Where The Devil Roams is a beautiful and grotesque rock and roll anthem that slays.
Have you seen Where the Devil Roams? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Where The Devil Roams will be available on digital on November 7th.
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