"Demonia" of 1990 is one of the last films by Italian Horror/Gore deity Lucio Fulci, and while it certainly ranges among the man's lesser achievements it is still a stylish little film that should be enjoyed by his fans. The film's main problem is that it is a bit of a mess, and that it truly pales in comparison to most of Fulci's other achievements, even becoming a bit boring in some parts (which is a very rare fault in a Fulci film). Yet the film is interesting in its Fulci-typical style and atmosphere and features several truly creepy moments as well as some spectacular gore-scenes. What also makes the film worth checking out is the fact that the master himself has a role - Fulci plays a police Inspector. The storyline is actually very promising Horror-material: In 15th century Sicily, a Covent of nuns who are suspected of conspiring with the devil are lynched by angry villagers. Five centuries later, Canadian archaeologists come to the area and are met with hostility by the superstitious locals. The locals fear that the strangers and their archaeological work might raise the demons of the past; and their worries are not entirely unfounded... Overall, the film has a promising premise but the execution is too messy. Yet it is recommendable to Fulci fans, as it does include many moments of pure creepiness. The master does show his talent for haunting atmosphere, and once again proves that his moniker "The Godfather of Gore" is justified. While "Demonia" should entertain many of my fellow Italian Horror buffs, it might make others roll their eyes. My advice to fellow Fulci-fans: check it out! Others, never mind.
