Watch The Serpent and the Rainbow

The Serpent and the Rainbow is a horror movie released in 1988 that tells the story of an anthropologist named Dennis Alan, played by Bill Pullman, who travels to Haiti to research the local voodoo culture. He is hired by a pharmaceutical company to find a mysterious drug that can reanimate a person who has been declared dead. Dennis' enthusiasm for the project is initially met with skepticism from the locals, including Marielle, played by Cathy Tyson, who is a doctor and the daughter of the president of the secret society that controls the voodoo in Haiti. However, Dennis eventually gets Marielle to help him with his research.

As Dennis delves deeper into the voodoo culture, he encounters severe resistance from the authorities in Haiti, including Captain Dargent Peytraud, played by Zakes Mokae. Peytraud is a vicious enforcer of the Tonton Macoute, Haiti's dictatorship-led secret police. Peytraud warns Dennis to leave the country, but Dennis continues his research.

Dennis is eventually captured by the Tonton Macoute and subjected to horrific torture. However, he is released due to the intervention of Marielle, who is in love with him. As the drug dealer prepares to execute Dennis, Peytraud arrives and orders the drug dealer to inject Dennis with the zombie-making drug. Peytraud then buries Dennis alive.

The rest of the movie follows Dennis' attempts to escape from his grave and return to the United States. He has terrifying hallucinations and sees zombies everywhere he turns. He also faces danger from the Tonton Macoute, who see him as a threat to their existence.

The Serpent and the Rainbow is a gripping horror movie that also delves into the rich culture of Haiti. It is a film that is not afraid to explore the darker side of human nature, as well as the supernatural. The film's director, Wes Craven, creates a sense of dread throughout the movie using unique camera angles and sound effects.

One of the movie's strengths is its acting. Bill Pullman delivers a nuanced performance as Dennis, who is both intelligent and brave in the face of tremendous danger. Cathy Tyson is also excellent as Marielle, who is torn between her love for Dennis and her duty to the secret society.

Zakes Mokae is particularly impressive as Captain Peytraud. He brings a sense of malice to the character that makes him a worthy antagonist. The portrayal of the Tonton Macoute is also intriguing, as they are shown as both ruthless and self-serving, yet ultimately weak.

The Serpent and the Rainbow is a unique horror movie that combines the best of both worlds. It is both a suspenseful thriller and a thoughtful exploration of Haitian culture. The movie keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat, while also providing insight into the human soul.

In summary, The Serpent and the Rainbow is a horror movie that explores the rich culture of Haiti. It is a film that is thrilling and thought-provoking. The movie is elevated by excellent performances from its cast, especially Bill Pullman, Cathy Tyson, and Zakes Mokae. The director, Wes Craven, uses innovative camera angles and sound effects to create an atmosphere of dread throughout the movie. Overall, The Serpent and the Rainbow is a must-see for horror fans who are looking for something different.

The Serpent and the Rainbow is a 1987 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 64.