The Serpent And The Rainbow

Release Date: OUT NOW!

1988 | 18 | Blu- ray/ DVD

“The following is inspired by a true story,” declares a title card. By the time a corpse in a bridal gown vomits a snake from its mouth you’re either reconsidering your hold on reality or applauding shameless movie hucksterism.

Liberally adapting Wade Davis’s book about the power of voodoo, this is an unreconstructed ’ 30s zombie flick in ’ 80s drag. A hammy Bill Pullman, dressed for Miami Vice, heads to Haiti on behalf of a pharmaceutical company, keen to exploit the juju- wearing locals.

Nightmare On Elm Street helmer Wes Craven just about rescues this overcooked tale with a gift for atmosphere and some memorable images, even if a monstrous hand reaching from a bowl of soup is pure Cream of Freddy.

Extras: Trailer.