Rated R / Color / 99 minutes
Directed by Colin Eggleston
Also Known As: Voyeur
Purchase it: Umbrella Entertainment (DVD)
WARNING: THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS!
Following my review of KADAICHA, it felt fitting to delve into INNOCENT PREY, the second feature on Umbrella Entertainment’s double bill. Shot in 1983 and released in the US in 1991 on VHS after a lengthy delay, this thriller from director Colin Eggleston (LONG WEEKEND) languished in obscurity for decades. Yet, INNOCENT PREY proves to be a hidden gem, delivering a thrilling and darkly humorous ride.
The film introduces Cathy Wills (P.J. Soles), whose life takes a horrifying turn when she discovers her husband Joseph (Kit Taylor) committing a brutal murder. Shocked and fearing for her life, Cathy flees to Australia at the invitation of her friend Gwen (Susan Stenmark), hoping to find safety and solace. However, her respite is short-lived as Joseph escapes confinement and tracks her down, setting the stage for a chilling confrontation amidst the idyllic Australian backdrop.
P.J. Soles delivers a compelling performance as Cathy, portraying her as a resilient yet vulnerable woman caught in a nightmarish spiral. Soles adeptly captures Cathy’s fear and determination, anchoring the film’s emotional core amidst the escalating tension.
Kit Taylor shines as Joseph Wills, transforming from a seemingly ordinary husband into a menacing and relentless pursuer. Taylor’s portrayal adds depth to Joseph’s character, showcasing his descent into murderous obsession with chilling intensity.
Supporting the narrative is John Warnock’s portrayal of Philip, Gwen’s eccentric landlord with a dark secret. Warnock brings a sinister charm to Philip, whose voyeuristic tendencies and lethal traps add a layer of suspense and unpredictability to the film’s narrative.
Eggleston’s direction keeps the audience on edge, blending suspenseful sequences with dark humor that punctuates the escalating drama. Brian May’s evocative soundtrack complements the film’s atmosphere, enhancing its suspenseful moments and emotional undertones.
Despite its delayed recognition, INNOCENT PREY stands out as a gripping thriller that deftly combines psychological tension with slasher elements. The film’s ability to surprise and entertain, coupled with strong performances and atmospheric direction, makes it a noteworthy entry in the thriller genre.
While it may have been overlooked upon its initial release, INNOCENT PREY deserves recognition for its engaging storyline, memorable performances, and effective blend of suspense and dark humor. For fans of psychological thrillers with a twist, INNOCENT PREY earns:
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
