Cinema Feed #2: Rigor Mortis (2013)

For most of the Chinese who grew up in the late 80s, Mr. Vampire, the Chinese Ghostbusters movie series is definitely a joyful memory that had accompanied during their youth. Unfortunately, the fever did not last for long and Chinese Vampire(殭屍, pronounce as Jiangshi) has then disappeared as a horror movie subject for almost a decade till the recent released of Rigor Mortis. 
Trailer: 

Directed by Hong Kong ex-pop singer, Juno Mak. Rigor Mortis has not only marked Juno’s directorial debut but is also a tribute to the Mr. Vampire series. It kicks off with the protagonist, Chin, Siu-Ho, a middle-aged actor, who had moved into an obsolete building after the failures in both his family and acting career. Since then, Chin is caught up in a series of supernatural encounters.

To distinguish itself as a remake, the movie is surrounded with dark and depressing elements, yet there are also the delicate connections with Mr. Vampire. Below is a list of summarised factors that explains why I believe the movie is worthwhile of my time:  

1) Life Story Portrayal

Having Chin portray himself by alluding to his experience of his career downfall after the Mr Vampire series is absolutely remarkable. It does sure aids in connecting with the audience, especially the vampire series’ fans who could empathized with his psychological struggle much genuinely.

2) The Evil Aspect of Human Nature

Each of the haunting spirits in this movie is created by human obsessions and selfishness. Regardless of the twin sisters who were being raped, or the zombie that was created together by the devastated wife, and the priest who was struggling to enhance his life.

The message that the movie is trying to pass on is the root of evil, a complex topic that will incur discussion among people. However, the storyline is not well planned enough to illustrate the notion deeply to impact the audience.

3) Visual Effects

With Takashi Shimizu as the co-producer, Rigor Mortis has inherited the obscure and spooky visual features from classic Japanese horror movies such as Ju-on & the ring. Thus, it was successful in establishing the creepy and sad atmosphere throughout the entire film. Additionally, each of the scenes are visually well thought of and certainly creates a stunning cinematography for the movie.

All in all, It’s been awhile that this type of topic and production has been released in the Chinese movie world. I can absolutely sense Juno’s effort in this production. Regardless of whether you are a Mr. Vampire Fans or not, Rigor Mortis, is a combination of nostalgia and refreshing elements, and it is definitely a horror movie that is worth the watch.