Watch Shocker

In the 1989 horror film Shocker, directed by Wes Craven, we are introduced to a new kind of villain that is unlike any other. The film tells the story of a serial killer named Horace Pinker, played by Mitch Pileggi, who is sentenced to death after being convicted of several brutal murders. However, before he is executed, Pinker makes a deal with the devil and becomes an unstoppable force that can enter people's dreams and manipulate electricity.

The film follows the journey of a college football star named Jonathan Parker, played by Peter Berg, who becomes Pinker's latest target after his family is brutally murdered. Jonathan begins to experience psychic visions that lead him to suspect that Pinker is still alive and on the loose, and he sets out to stop him once and for all.

Along the way, Jonathan teams up with a psychic named Lt. Don Parker, played by Michael Murphy, who also happens to be his father. Together, they use their abilities to track down Pinker and put an end to his reign of terror. But as they get closer to capturing the killer, they realize that Pinker has more powers than they ever imagined, and that they are in for an epic showdown that will test their strength and willpower.

What sets Shocker apart from other horror films of its era is its unique premise and creative execution. The film combines elements of the slasher genre, supernatural horror, and even sci-fi, to create something that is entirely its own. The idea of an evil entity being able to manipulate electricity and enter people's dreams was groundbreaking at the time, and it still holds up as a fascinating concept today.

The film features some intense scenes of violence and gore, which are not for the faint of heart. However, it also has a sense of humor that helps to balance out the darker elements. There are several moments of levity throughout the film, particularly in the interactions between Lt. Don Parker and his partner, Detective Pastori, played by John Tesh.

The performances in Shocker are solid across the board. Mitch Pileggi is truly terrifying as Pinker, exuding a menacing presence that is hard to shake. Peter Berg is also excellent as the protagonist, bringing a sense of vulnerability and determination to his role. But perhaps the standout performance in the film comes from Michael Murphy as Lt. Don Parker. He is a fascinating character, both because of his psychic powers and his complex relationship with his son. Murphy brings a level of gravitas to the role that elevates the film as a whole.

The story is engaging and well-paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience on their toes. There are several set pieces throughout the film that are particularly memorable, such as a sequence in a TV repair shop that showcases Pinker's ability to possess machines. The final showdown between Parker and Pinker is also a highlight, featuring some impressive special effects and a sense of grandeur befitting the film's supernatural themes.

Overall, Shocker is a unique and thrilling horror film that should not be overlooked. It is a testament to Wes Craven's skills as a filmmaker and a reminder of why he is considered one of the greats in the horror genre. The film's blend of horror, comedy, and sci-fi is a winning formula that still holds up after more than 30 years. Whether you are a fan of the genre or simply looking for a good scare, Shocker is a movie that should not be missed.

Shocker is a 1989 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5 and a MetaScore of 51.