"Suitable Flesh": A Delightfully Grisly Trip to Lovecraft Country

Directed by: Joe Lynch  

Starring: Heather Graham, Barbara Crampton, Judah Lewis, Bruce Davison

**Rating:** ★★★☆☆

While it might not be a groundbreaking horror masterpiece, "Suitable Flesh" delivers a solid dose of gruesome fun. It's a film deeply rooted in the tradition of 1980s Lovecraft adaptations, complete with a nod to the legendary Stuart Gordon and the ever-game Barbara Crampton. Fans of the genre will appreciate its blend of psychosexual horror and bloody mayhem, set against the eerie backdrop of Lovecraft Country.

Plot Summary:

The story kicks off in the familiar, unsettling world of Miskatonic, a name that sends a chill down the spine of any Lovecraft enthusiast. Dr. Daniella Upton (Barbara Crampton) is trying to make sense of her colleague Elizabeth Derby’s (Heather Graham) horrific actions. Elizabeth, now confined to a padded cell, recounts her tale of terror—a journey that began with a seemingly perfect life, now shattered by the arrival of a mysterious young man named Asa (Judah Lewis).

Elizabeth's initial concern for Asa’s mental health quickly turns into something more sinister as she becomes entangled in a web of ancient evil. Asa’s father, Ephraim (Bruce Davison), is the keeper of a dark and powerful tome, hinting at soul-hopping sorcery that might be behind the bizarre events unfolding around Elizabeth. As the supernatural threat grows, Elizabeth finds herself the next target of this malevolent force.

Performances:

Heather Graham shines as Elizabeth, delivering a performance that captures both vulnerability and a chilling transformation. Her ability to convey multiple personalities, particularly when possessed by a malevolent spirit, adds depth to the character. Barbara Crampton, a veteran of Lovecraftian horror, brings her usual excellence to the role of Daniella, grounding the film with her presence. Judah Lewis and Bruce Davison effectively portray the creepy and sinister Asa and Ephraim, adding layers of menace to the story.

Narrative and Structure:

Joe Lynch, the writer-director, skillfully navigates the film's complex narrative, balancing horror and psychological thrills with a touch of dark humor. The plot’s twists and turns keep viewers on their toes, especially as the lines between reality and supernatural blur. Lynch’s direction, combined with a screenplay that embraces Lovecraftian themes, ensures that "Suitable Flesh" remains engaging throughout.

Themes and Execution:

"Suitable Flesh" delves into themes of possession, identity, and the loss of control. The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the more perverse aspects of these themes, offering a visceral experience that goes beyond typical body-swapping stories. The psychosexual elements are handled with a mix of shock and dark humor, reminiscent of the Gordon/Crampton classic "From Beyond."

The film’s production values reflect its B-movie budget, with certain scenes highlighting the set-bound nature through clever lighting and staging. However, Lynch turns these limitations into strengths, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that enhances the horror.

Conclusion:

"Suitable Flesh" is a wild ride through Lovecraftian horror, offering a blend of psychological thrills, body horror, and dark humor. While it might not appeal to everyone, fans of 1980s horror and Lovecraft adaptations will find much to enjoy. Heather Graham and Barbara Crampton deliver standout performances, and Joe Lynch’s inventive direction keeps the film engaging despite its budget constraints.

Now streaming on Netflix, "Suitable Flesh" is perfect for those looking for a grisly, entertaining horror flick with a touch of Lovecraftian madness. Just go with the flow and enjoy the dark, twisted journey.