Wishmaster – Film Review

Crafting a deft narrative from age-old cautionary tales of temptation and desire, director Robert Kurtzman‘s Wishmaster breathes new life into the realm of horror films. Disturbingly entertaining with its unique narrative device of an ancient entity wreaking havoc in the modern world, Wishmaster navigates a dark, supernatural journey punctuated with inventive gruesomeness.

Wishmaster narrates the eerie tale of a Djinn, an evil genie from Arabian mythology. When an unsuspecting woman unwittingly releases him from an ancient gemstone, chaos unfolds as the Djinn gleefully bends and twists people’s deepest desires into horrifying outcomes. What adds to the nerve-wracking experience is the Djinn’s underlying motive – granting three wishes to his liberator so he can unleash his fellow evil entities, threatening to engulf the world in eternal darkness.

What makes Wishmaster stand out is its clever spin on the be careful what you wish for trope, that typically resolves in unintentional comedy rather than horror. This film uses it to unsettling and graphic effect, using ingenious effects by KNB FX, a special effects team helmed by Kurtzman himself. From grotesque transformations to macabre creatures, the creative brutality pulls the audience into the cruelly twisted wishes the Djinn is fond of granting.

Robert Englund, popularly known for his role as Freddy Krueger, deserves applause for his brilliant performance as Raymond Beaumont, while Andrew Divoff steals the show with his masterful portrayal of the cunning and manipulative Djinn. Divoff flawlessly blends malevolence with suave charm, lending an enchanting charisma to his nefarious character that leaves viewers alternately repulsed and intrigued.

Tammy Lauren also deserves mention for her convincing performance as Alexandra Amberson, the film’s leading lady. She imbues Alexandra with a certain relatability and genuine human fear, coupled with an innate strength that effectively resonates with audiences. Their on-screen chemistry, the sinister Djinn versus the unassuming heroine, heightens the dramatic tension.

Visually, the film serves up an eye-catching spectacle of stunning imagery, from a vibrantly bedecked Persian court to the mystifying confines of the gem. The picturesque locales heighten the macabre sequences, balancing gore with cinematic elegance.

Despite its enthralling narrative, stellar performances, and gripping special effects, Wishmaster has some chinks in its armor. For instance, while the gruesomeness can be shocking, some might feel it teeters too much towards gore for gore’s sake. This can overshadow the story, transforming what could be an intellectually engaging psychological horror into something of a bloodbath.

Furthermore, certain character decisions in the film might seem frustratingly obtuse, especially Alexandra’s curious hesitation before wishing away the Djinn in the climactic sequence. Such instances disrupt the plot’s flow, prompting unnecessary distractions and even potentially diminishing audience engagement.

While horror films are often criticized for their lack of depth, Wishmaster arguably offers some exploration of moral dilemmas through its cautionary tale of the seductive danger of one’s deepest desires. The storyline cleverly serves as an allegory, illustrating the darker side of humanity’s incessant yearning for power and gratification, without ramming its philosophy down viewers’ throats. It smartly walks a fine line between thoughtful subtext and entertaining narrative.

Wishmaster remains a distinguished and noteworthy film in the horror genre, fearlessly pushing the boundaries of traditional storylines. Despite minor plot and pacing issues, its thrilling mix of a refreshing concept, macabre special effects, and strong performances makes it a delight for horror fans. Whether for the thrills, the philosophical underpinnings, or simply for the spectacle of its spectacle, Wishmaster deserves attention.

It manages to grant the audience’s wish for a truly haunting and terrifying film experience, much like its antagonist. In essence, it sends an explicit message to viewers, but in the most terrifying and captivating way – Be careful what you wish for.