Proof that anything is possible in the world of filmmaking is never more apparent than with David Fussell’s 2017 Welsh-set low budget horror offering Mystic Demon Killer.
The making of this film is an extraordinary journey, and on that basis, the director should be commended for what he has conceived here, amidst some admittedly challenging circumstances, but aspiring filmmakers, be they horror or otherwise, should look to Fussell as genuinely inspirational when it comes to taking action and pursuing your creative dream.
The plot sees a female MI6 agent sent to Wales to investigate an incident involving the slaughter of a crack team of soldiers from her unit, plus a couple of other alleged disappearances. Thanks to a local doctor’s information, she starts looking into why the incident happened and heads into the local woods, where dark elements await in the shadows.
It’s a cheap and cheerful affair at times, but as a low budget film it does have a lot to offer, reminiscent of some of Charles Band’s offerings mixed with more recent British cult favourites like Neil Marshall’s The Descent and Dog Soldiers. Add a ninja into the mix, and you have a reasonably diverting horror movie with the potential to reach cult status with the underground crowd.
One also hopes Fussell will be able to expand on his effort here; perhaps even reworking his film on a bigger budget and landscape.
MYSTIC DEMON KILLER / CERT: TBC / DIRECTOR & SCREENPLAY: DAVID FUSSELL / RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW