Phantasm (1979)

Phantasm (1979) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Phantasm (1979), directed by Don Coscarelli, is a cult classic in the horror genre that blends supernatural elements with eerie, dream-like storytelling. Known for its haunting imagery and innovative special effects, the film has earned a dedicated following over the decades. With a unique storyline involving a malevolent undertaker and a mysterious dimension, Phantasm stands out as a seminal work in horror cinema.

In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, characters, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent Phantasm online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

Phantasm follows the story of Mike Pearson (A. Michael Baldwin), a young boy who becomes increasingly disturbed by a series of strange and frightening events occurring in his small town. After the death of his parents, Mike and his older brother, Jody (Bill Thornbury), are left to deal with their grief and the unsettling occurrences around them.

The brothers discover that the local mortuary is not what it seems. The enigmatic and sinister undertaker, known as the Tall Man (Angus Scrimm), is revealed to be an otherworldly entity who uses his mortuary as a gateway to another dimension. The Tall Man is involved in a series of bizarre and horrifying activities, including transforming corpses into malevolent creatures and collecting the living for unknown purposes.

As Mike and Jody delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover the Tall Man’s terrifying plans and must find a way to stop him before it’s too late. The film combines elements of supernatural horror, sci-fi, and psychological thriller, creating a unique and unsettling experience.

Key Characters and Performances

• Angus Scrimm as The Tall Man
  Angus Scrimm delivers an iconic performance as the Tall Man, the film’s central antagonist. Scrimm’s portrayal of the Tall Man is both chilling and memorable, contributing significantly to the film’s eerie atmosphere.
• A. Michael Baldwin as Mike Pearson
  A. Michael Baldwin plays Mike Pearson, the young protagonist who becomes entangled in the horror unfolding in his town. Baldwin’s performance captures the fear and determination of a boy thrust into a nightmarish situation.
• Bill Thornbury as Jody Pearson
  Bill Thornbury portrays Jody Pearson, Mike’s older brother who tries to protect him while uncovering the truth behind the mortuary’s horrors. Thornbury’s performance adds depth to the film’s familial relationships.
• Cathy Lee Crosby as Liz
  Cathy Lee Crosby plays Liz, Jody’s love interest who becomes involved in the fight against the Tall Man. Crosby’s role provides additional emotional and narrative depth to the story.

What to Expect from Phantasm

Strengths

1. Unique and Original Storyline: Phantasm offers a distinctive and imaginative take on horror, blending supernatural elements with sci-fi and psychological thrills. Its originality sets it apart from other films in the genre.
2. Iconic Performance by Angus Scrimm: Angus Scrimm’s portrayal of the Tall Man is a standout feature of the film. His menacing presence and distinctive voice contribute to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
3. Innovative Special Effects: For its time, Phantasm featured groundbreaking special effects, including the infamous flying silver spheres. The film’s creativity in visual effects adds to its lasting impact.
4. Atmospheric and Eerie Tone: Don Coscarelli’s direction creates a dream-like and atmospheric tone that enhances the film’s horror elements. The film’s eerie visuals and unsettling soundtrack contribute to its overall sense of dread.

Weaknesses

1. Slow Pacing: Some viewers may find the film’s pacing slow, particularly in the early scenes. The film’s build-up may feel gradual compared to more modern horror films.
2. Ambiguous Plot Elements: The film’s narrative can be ambiguous and open to interpretation, which may leave some viewers confused. The dream-like quality of the story can sometimes detract from its coherence.
3. Low Budget Aesthetics: As a low-budget film, Phantasm features some dated and uneven production values. While the special effects were innovative for their time, they may appear less impressive by today’s standards.

Direction and Cinematography

Don Coscarelli’s direction is a key factor in the film’s success, creating a distinctive and unsettling atmosphere. His use of visual and auditory elements contributes to the film’s dream-like and eerie quality.

The cinematography, by Geoffrey C. H. (Jeff) Bickford, enhances the film’s horror elements with its use of shadows, unusual angles, and surreal imagery. The visual style complements the film’s supernatural themes and contributes to its lasting impact.

Where to Watch Phantasm Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

Phantasm is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing ranges from $9.99 to $12.99.
2. Apple iTunes
   • You can rent or purchase Phantasm on Apple iTunes, with rentals priced around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
3. Google Play Movies
   • The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies, with similar pricing: rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
4. Vudu
   • Phantasm can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with rentals typically costing around $2.99 to $4.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
5. Shudder
   • The film is available to stream on Shudder, a streaming service dedicated to horror films. A subscription to Shudder is required to access the film.

Rental and Purchase Options

For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:

• YouTube Movies
• Microsoft Store

Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $12.99.

Physical Media

Phantasm is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Physical copies often include special features like director’s commentary, behind-the-scenes content, and interviews with the cast and crew.

Conclusion

Phantasm (1979) is a seminal work in the horror genre, known for its unique blend of supernatural, sci-fi, and psychological elements. With an iconic performance by Angus Scrimm and innovative special effects, the film remains a standout example of inventive horror cinema. Available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Shudder, and for digital rental and purchase, Phantasm is a must-watch for fans of classic horror and those interested in the genre’s evolution.