‘Dagon’
Lions Gate Films, 2001

starring: Ezra Godden, Raquel Merono and Francisco Rabal
directed by: Stuart Gordon

the plot: Paul (Godden) and Barbara (Merono) are vacationing with friends when a freak accident traps the friends on a swiftly-sinking boat. Paul and Barbara take an emergency raft to the tiny coastal hamlet of Imboca in search of assistance. Once ashore, Paul enlists the help of some pallid fishermen to rescue his friends, while a mysterious priest leads Barbara to the nearest telephone. But Paul’s rescue attempts fail, and by the time he makes it back to town, Barbara is missing. Once night falls, Paul witnesses the  horrifying sight of half-human, half-fish creatures that populate the town, swarming the streets in search of a human sacrifice. As Paul scrambles across Imboca searching for a place to hide, he discovers the townspeople secretly worship Dagon, a hideous sea creature that has been haunting Paul's dreams.

why it’s good: “Dagon” is a prime Stuart Gordon flick, combining the goofy slapstick, atmospheric horror and excessive gore that made his “Re-Animator” such a classic. Based on a pair of short stories by H.P. Lovecraft (upon whose work Gordon frequently draws), “Dagon” is simple, suspenseful and fun. There’s very little plot to get in the way of all the action—by the 20-minute mark, Paul and Barbara are already trapped and fighting for their lives. What follows is some decent physical comedy by Godden and a heavy dose of creeping dread, supplied by Gordon’s frantic camerawork and the legions of fish-people. Those worried about Gordon skimping on the bloodshed needn’t worry; “Dagon” is filled with plenty of gross moments, including a ghastly skin-removal scene. The climax is very Lovecraftian, complete with a chanting cult performing a monstrous sacrifice. However, the final plot twist, involving Paul and Imboca’s monstrous rulers, is a little contrived (but it does have a clever “Star Wars” reference).

why you should own it: If you loved “Re-Animator,” chances are you'll like “Dagon.” Lovecraft devotees and Gordon fans should have this one in their collection, but don’t expect more than the standard extras on Lions Gate's DVD. There are commentary tracks by Gordon, Godden and screenwriter Dennis Paoli, as well as a gallery of production artwork and storyboards.