Rating summary

Movie		2.5
Video		4.5
Audio		4.0
Extras		2.5
Overall		4.0

Prime Evil Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf November 5, 2017

The plot of “Prime Evil” would find a more suitable home as a short story, or possibly as part of a horror anthology film, but director Roberta Findlay isn’t about to give up on her moviemaking mission, laboring to stretch the 1988 effort without completely breaking it. It’s a Satanic Panic endeavor, and one that’s fairly light on thrills, often falling back on traditional exploitation moves to keep viewers interested in the feature. Findlay’s working hard to make something threatening out of very little, and while she comes up short, “Prime Evil” is not completely devoid of entertainment value.

Thomas (William Beckwith) is the grand leader of a Satanic cult, gifting those willing to make a blood sacrifice 13 years of delicious immortality. When Alexandra (Christine Moore) is marked for death by a family member, the stamina of evil of put to the test as cops, loved ones, and Alexandra’s own survival instinct rise up to defend innocence and destroy Thomas.

“Prime Evil” offers something of a pursuit plot, and there are numerous supporting characters contributing to the drama, which tangles up in family drama to bring additional complication to the hunt. However, this is a talky picture, finding Findlay working with very little money to help go hog wild with overt tension and demonic influence, while Satan himself is a hand puppet shot and edited carefully to maintain some sense of disturbance.

Prime Evil Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (1.85:1 aspect ratio) presentation offers a sharp look at the low-budget antics of "Prime Evil." Clarity is impressive, capturing facial particulars and costuming, with period clothes showcasing soft and sheer qualities. Set decoration is open for inspection, and dimensional distances are preserved. Colors are pleasantly managed, with bright primaries that emphasize blood reds, and greenery appears intact. Skintones are natural. Delineation is secure. Grain is fine and filmic. Source is in terrific shape, without significant damage.

Prime Evil Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 1.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix delivers the essentials of the "Prime Evil" listening event without pronounced disruptions. Dialogue exchanges are clear and purposeful, with the exception of one scene around the 43:00 mark, which contributes what seems to be inherent fuzziness. Performances are expressive, and hysteria isn't distortive. Scoring supports as intended, with satisfactory instrumentation. Sound effects offer some heft. Atmospherics register adequately.

Prime Evil Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Commentary features director Roberta Findlay.

• A Theatrical Trailer (2:11, HD) is included.

Prime Evil Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

"Prime Evil" is appealingly performed, finding Beckwith fully aware what kind of film he's in. Findlay certainly doesn't give up on the effort, but she doesn't have much to do besides manage lukewarm confrontation and dismal dialogue (one cop tries to silence Thomas by pointing out his "fart breath"), relying on violence and nudity to make up the difference. It's not terribly charming, but in the arena of B-movies, "Prime Evil" captures a certain appreciation for the macabre.