Watch The Tattooist

The Tattooist, released in 2007, is a supernatural horror movie that stands out for its unique storyline, impressive cinematography, and engaging performances from its cast. Directed by Peter Burger and written by Matthew Grainger, the film stars Jason Behr as Jake, a celebrated tattoo artist who specializes in traditional Samoan tattoos. He travels to Samoa to learn more about the art and meets Sina (Mia Blake), a young woman who seeks his help to remove a tattoo that has cursed her and her family for generations.

Jake is initially skeptical about Sina's claim, but after witnessing strange occurrences and meeting his mentor's daughter, Alipa (Caroline Cheong), who shares a similar story, he starts to believe that there is something supernatural going on. He seeks help from Malu (David Fane), a local historian and cultural expert, to learn more about the mysterious tattoos and their connection to the island's folklore.

As Jake delves deeper into the world of Samoan mythology and the tattooing process, he discovers that the tattoos are more than just ink on skin. They are a gateway to the realm of the dead, where restless spirits reside, waiting to be released into the world of the living. The tattoos he has inked have become vessels for these malevolent spirits, and Sina's tattoo is the key to their release.

The story of The Tattooist is intriguing and keeps you engrossed from beginning to end. The movie does an excellent job of blending horror and mystery, making the audience feel a sense of dread and anticipation throughout the film. It also explores themes of tradition and cultural identity, adding depth to the plot.

The director, Peter Burger, creates a visually stunning movie that captures the beauty of Samoa's landscape and culture. The use of traditional Samoan music and language adds to the authenticity of the setting and helps immerse the viewers in the local culture. The cinematography is also impressive, with vibrant colors and excellent use of light and shadow, creating a haunting and eerie atmosphere.

The actors' performances are commendable, with Jason Behr delivering a convincing portrayal of Jake's growth and transformation throughout the movie. Mia Blake's portrayal of Sina is both vulnerable and fierce, making her a relatable and sympathetic character. David Fane's Malu provides comic relief while also being a source of information and guidance.

Overall, The Tattooist is a well-crafted horror movie that successfully blends Samoan folklore and culture into a thrilling and suspenseful story. It is a visually stunning movie that is bound to leave an impression on its viewers.

The Tattooist is a 2007 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.