The Devil's Muse

Any film that reaches a point of distribution has to be given a five...but I can't give it anymore than that...it lacks the single thing that makes a film watchable, a story about someone that needs to do something...this film has several stories in it, but it never makes it as an ensemble piece because of that very reason....who is it about, what do they need to do, what do they desire? Who's story am I watching...? Yes, I know a movie that doesn't follow that doesn't mean it's a bad film but it's a niche film, a film you watch not for the story but for another reason, the actors, the director, the locations...but the story has to be paramount...until you are David lynch, you can't make a David lynch film...

Understand, this is not your typical Hollywood fare.

There is no formulaic storyline or punchy tidy ending with a tacked on denouement. This is film-making at its finest level. A stunning and gorgeous take on the Elizabeth Short story that is more like a visual poem than the usual derivative narratives. The story is one of the most unique and original I've seen in quite some time.

The cast is peppered with cameos from all manner of celebrities including musicians, models, artists and directors.

The cast is lovely, the atmosphere writhes and the soundtrack is an integral part of the tale rather than a distraction.

Did I mention the performance by the stunning Abby Travis?

Ramzi Abed makes the world a happier place.

Please do not confuse this movie with the two other Black Dahlia's out there, or you will be really missing out.... This movie is packed full of surprising and unconventional stars...starting with the Black Dahlia herself...Kristen Kerr...Gidget Gein, who does an unbelievable job playing a detective, and Masuimi Max, who is so beautiful and who knew she was so convincing as an actress...and Julie Strain. I am not going to give away any details... all i am going to do is tell you to go see it... or you will be sorry you missed it. Ramzi Abed is a very creative director and i can not wait to see what he has coming next. I hope we do not have to wait too long for his next feature film.

Not to be confused with Ulli Lommel's unwatchable mess or the incomprehensible De Palma film, this is a decently shot and produced meditation on the price of fame and fortune in Lotus Land. The film uses the Black Dahlia as a springboard for a series of vignettes and haunted images of Hollywood's past. The cinematography is excellent and the cast is up for the challenge. You do not learn about the Black Dahlia crime from this film. The viewer is thrust into the shoes of a number of actresses searching for success with the Black Dahlia character as a backdrop. This stream of ideas is not for all tastes, but if you are in the mood, you will find this film rewarding.

I just watched this movie over the weekend and I must say that it was more than I expected. Exspecially after watching the two other "really bad" Black Dahlia movies. But I have to tell you Mr. Abed restored my faith. From the unconventional actors and actress' in the film to the way he shared the story of the Black Dahlia, he really pushed the envelope of violence, sex, and of course the infamous and murderous mystery of Elizabeth Short. This is a tale that carefully unravels surprisingly in the end. This it is not your typical 'scary film'. So be prepared to really think about violence..sex...and murder. Be prepared to be slightly turned on by this tale of Rhamzi Abed's Black Dahlia. It will leave you wanting more...and maybe a cigarette or two:)