During the heyday of made-for-TV horror films, there were two big names: Dan Curtis and Curtis Harrington. Both were prolific, their productions making up the bulk of the best 1970's tele-horror sub-genre.
DEVIL DOG: THE HOUND OF HELL is one of Mr. Harrington's better occult offerings.
A Satanic cult, led by a mysterious woman (the magnificent Martine Beswick), sets out to manifest a demon into a German Shepherd dog. Their quest for global dominion ensues.
After losing their family dog, Mike and Betty Barry (Richard Crenna and Yvette Mimieux) "coincidentally" acquire a new pup. Named "Lucky" by their overjoyed daughter (Kim Richards), all seems hunky dory. That is, until the odd occurrences and deadly "accidents" begin.
Harrington does a great job of not only making the titular pooch seem menacing, but also young Ms. Richards' character and her brother (Ike Eisenmann). Ms. Mimieux is quite alluring when she takes her walk on the dark side as well! Crenna stands tall throughout, as the everyman caught up in these devilish circumstances.
Loaded with demonic shenanigans and mystical goings-on, this movie should thrill all lovers of such fiendish fare, especially the big, final conflict...
