Deathdream 2004 Horror Movie Review

Don’t be put off by the cheesy cover or the PG rating, this is a spectacularly creepy little horror gem from the 70’s.


Bob Clark(BLACK CHRISTMAS) masterfully directs this unsettling story with the less is more technique.  A family is devastated when they receive the tragic news about their son Andy, who perished in the line of duty during the Vietnam War.  Before the grief even settles in, they are awoken that night by an even greater shock.  A late-night visitor…


“They sent us a telegram.  They said my son was dead”...


“I was”.


Andy then smiles to ease some of the awkward tension, but it soon becomes evident that something just isn’t right.  He doesn’t eat, sleep, or hardly speak.  He just stares blankly as he sways back and forth in the family rocking chair. 

We soon realize he must inject human blood into his veins in order to survive.  Or should I say, sustain his weary state of existence. 


This is an extremely powerful anti-war commentary.  Of course very relevant still today, nobody can escape the effects of battle unscathed.  Deathdream slowly builds toward the frightening climax with thick doses of tension.  Tom Savini shows his superb touches here with his brilliant early special effects work. 


4.5 Stars, a must-see for fans of the vampire/zombie genre.