The film leans heavily on its source material but struggles to translate ethnobotanical intrigue into emotional or narrative urgency. The pacing feels drawn out, diluting the tension.
Spoiler-free review.
The story revolves around a journalist investigating claims of real zombies in Haiti, following the non-fiction accounts of Wade Davis. This premise offers a unique angle but lacks the sharp focus needed to make it compelling or immersive. The film's approach to the subject feels more like an academic exercise than a gripping narrative.
Wes Craven's direction is respectful but cautious, avoiding deeper exploration of cultural or psychological themes. Bill Pullman plays his character well, but he stays emotionally distant from the material he's investigating. Cathy Tyson and Paul Winfield add depth to their roles, though the script doesn't give them much to work with.
The dialogue often feels academic or detached, making it hard to connect with the audience on a personal level. The central mystery unfolds too slowly, and the stakes don't feel urgent. The film's tone wavers between eerie and inert, never fully committing to either.
Its reliance on folklore without deeper exploration weakens its impact as a horror story. The slow pacing and infrequent scares make it more curious than frightening. Despite its intentions, The Serpent and the Rainbow feels like an intriguing idea that never quite reaches its full potential.
1988 · English. Film details · Poster source · Artwork © its respective rights holders.
The film leans heavily on its source material but struggles to translate ethnobotanical intrigue into emotional or narrative urgency. The pacing feels drawn out, diluting the tension.
— Desly