DVD Corner

The Mask Of Satan Blu-ray Review

“The Mask Of Satan” starts strong but falls apart in the end. 

Based on the novel “Viy” by Nikolai Gogol and a story by Lamberto Bava, Massimo De Rita and Giorgio Stegani and written by Massimo De Rita and Giorgio Stegani, “The Mask Of Satan” is a 1989 Italian TV horror film that revolves around a group of 8 friends on a ski trip. While on the slopes, they fall through a large crack in the ice and this is when the real trouble begins. A mask on a dead body encased in ice is discovered. Naturally, the mask is removed which unleashes the spirit of a dead witch named Anibas. From there on out, all hell breaks loose. One of the skiers (Sergio) dies, a broken leg is magically healed, members of the group begin to act very strangely due to the witch’s corruption, and they all find themselves stuck in a nearly deserted village due to a snowstorm. The only resident is a Priest and his pet wolf living in a church who just might be the only one that can save them (or anyone).

Directed by Lamberto Bava, “The Mask Of Satan” is a relatively obscure Italian horror film. The film bears a resemblance to Mario Bava’s (Lamberto’s father) “Black Sunday” which itself is also based on “Viy.” The big difference here is that ‘Mask’ is a modern (well, 80’s) telling of the story. 

‘Mask’ starts off strong with a compelling set-up, a unique winter setting, a chilly atmosphere, and a creepy villain with the Satan praising Witch Anibas. Lamberto Bava also dazzles viewers with a lot of strange imagery with the moving walls, the witch forms, cobwebs, the use of color, and so forth. There’s even a dash of “Evil Dead” influence at times with the possessions.

As the story enters the final act, however, ‘Mask’ starts to lose its way. The end is drug out as the characters run around the church and village far too much. The film’s hero (Davide) is also continuously confused by what he is seeing (is it all real or is it an illusion?). Even the final showdown with the witch goes on too long and resolves too easily. The story simply runs out of gas which is a shame as the lead up to the final act is a fun slice of 80’s horror. It’s still worth a watch for 80’s horror and Italian horror fans, but it could and should have been a better film.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.66:1 1080p. How does it look? There are noticeable print defects throughout but the colors are certainly richer (especially the snowy exteriors).

Audio Track: Italian and Spanish Mono. How does it sound? The original language Italian track is effective. An English dub is not available for those wondering. 

Extras include 3 separate interviews with Lamberto Bava and actresses Mary Sellers and Debora Caprioglio.

March 6, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | 80's Horror, Lamberto Bava, The Mask Of Satan Blu-ray Review, Witch Movie