The Gate (1987)
Last Watch Date - November 6, 2022
Total Times Watched - Tons
Comments
I'm not sure what made me watch this movie again. I've seen it so many times and it's not even on my list of favorites. Part of me probably wants to like it more than I do and part of me also probably thinks of it like a weird nostalgic trip. Enough of that, let's get on with it.
The Gate has a really stupid story with some goofy visual effects that you may or may not appreciate. The little monsters (and the big one) are kind of cool in that they're practical with green screens and overlays. They're also really silly at times and it takes away from the otherwise straight tone of the movie. It's yet another movie that plays up the heavy metal band gives you access to DEMONS! I'll never understand why they always give instructions on how to unleash them but also instructions on how to banish them again. Are you really pro-demon if you're also offering a way to bottle them up like some sort of weird genies? You're either FOR demons or you're not. Pick your side, metal bands.
The acting is surprisngly good considering the age of the cast. There are some funny moments with the kids looking at themselves in mirrors and otherwise doing weird things. You feel both the teasing and taunting of young siblings as well as the genuine concern and care for one another. A lesser cast wouldn't feel real, but this one does. The side characters outside of the main trio are nothing worth mentioning.
In terms of horror or scares, I always considered this movie a horror comedy, but watching it again, I don't think it is. Or at least, it's not SUPPOSED to be. It really does play it straight and the kids are genuinely scared the whole time. If I put myself in the shoes of a 12 year old boy, I could potentially be scared of some of these things (though I definitely was into horror at that age and this movie did not scare me). I'm confused about the mega monster demon that shows up - it's not really threatening at all. Sure, it shakes him around a bit, but ultimately it doesn't really DO anything. At least the little guys bite.
This is probably a good movie to introduce your kids to horror. It's not overly scary, nor is it raunchy or gross. There is an exploding bible for some reason and the demon seems to launch fireworks when it dies. That may lead your kids to attempt to attack demons? Or whatever. Who knows. Your kids are idiots anyway. Not just your kids. All kids. But especially yours.
Recommended?
It's ok. It's short enough that even if you don't really like it, you're not going to get bored with it.
