Whilst much of the horror we see in our multiplexes comes from Hollywood, having a big budget or huge marketing campaign doesn’t necessarily make it any good. In fact, the opposite is often the case. Although harder to find, South America, as a continent, is beginning to produce some great genre cinema. The likes of Terrified, Cold Sweat, Good Manners and now Luz: The Flower of Evil show a much more thoughtful approach to the concept of evil.
In a farming community located far into the Columbian mountains lives a father (El Señor – Conrado Osorio) and his three adult daughters (Uma – Yuri Vargas, Zion – Sharon Guzman and Laila – Andrea Esquivel). After the death of their mother, Luz, the sisters have grappled with the concept of good and evil in the natural world around them, trying desperately to find a trace of her. When a young boy (Johan Camacho) appears, and is hailed as the Messiah by their father, strange things begin to happen.
Luz: The Flower of Evil is a stylish and vibrant ghost story which is mired in the corruption of the land. The beautiful visuals are colourful and rich, often flowing into elements of magical realism and fantasy. Juan Diego Escobar Alzate’s film has a lot to say and whilst the message sometimes becomes a little muddled it’s creepy and tense throughout. Drenched in symbolism and folklore, Luz: The Flower of Evil is an unsettling and mysterious Columbian horror.
Limited edition Blu-ray special features:
- Collector’s edition slipcase with new art by Christopher Shy
- Collector’s edition booklet
- OST by Brian Heater
- 6 Art Cards
- Audio commentary with director and film critic Kurt Halfyard
- Luz at Sitges (59 mins)
- Making of (56 mins)
- Trailer
- Music Video
Luz: The Flower of Evil is released on Digital on 26 July and on Blu-ray on 23 August.
