I can’t say I’m a huge fan of most Western’s but I am a huge fan of Western Horror films. That being said, if you dig them as well… you will love The Pale Door!
This film was directed by Aaron B. Koontz (Scare Package) who also co-wrote the script with Cameron Burns (Camera Obscura) and Keith Lansdale (“Creepshow”). It stars Devin Druid (“13 Reasons Why”), Zachary Knighton (“Happy Endings”), Noah Segan (Knives Out), Stan Shaw (The Monster Squad), Pat Healy (Cheap Thrills), Bill Sage (We Are What We Are), Melora Walters (“PEN15”, Magnolia) and Natasha Bassett (Hail, Caesar!).
Synopsis for The Pale Door
The Dalton gang find shelter in a seemingly uninhabited ghost town after a train robbery goes south. Seeking help for their wounded leader, they are surprised to stumble upon a welcoming brothel in the town’s square. But the beautiful women who greet them are actually a coven of witches with very sinister plans for the unsuspecting outlaws – and the battle between good and evil is just beginning.
I loved everything about this film. It has great performances, awesome special effects, and a unique story. A western horror combined with witches was brilliant. It delivered an aesthetic that I’ve never seen before.
All of the performances are phenomenal but there are a few shining stars. Zachary Knighton always delivers a killer performance but I loved his character in The Pale Door. Duncan just oozes with charisma, confidence, and leadership. Stan Shaw also brought his A-game and I loved the chemistry he had with the Dalton gang and his willingness to protect them at all costs especially Devin Druid’s character, Jake. For me, this was one of Devin’s best performances and I think he showed his full acting range and abilities with this role.
The Pale Door has a chilling soundtrack that pairs well with the spooky, dreadful atmosphere that lingers throughout the film. The special effects and transformations are unique, well done, and wickedly cool. This film has some cool special features as well including the making of the film, filmmaker commentary, and the editing process. Just another reason you may want to own the DVD or Blu-ray.
Final Thoughts
RLJE Films, a business unit of AMC Networks, along with Shudder, AMC Networks’ premium service for horror, thriller, and the supernatural, will release the horror/western film The Pale Door starting today on October 6, 2020, on DVD and Blu-ray. Just in time for Halloween! What a treat!