- Genre
- Horror
- Year
- 1978
- Runtime
- 1h44
0
The Manitou
Evil has a historyโฆ and it's about to return.
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Synopsis
In this supernatural thriller directed by William Girdler, Tony Curtis stars as Harry Erskine, a clairvoyant who is drawn into a world of ancient Native American mysticism when a woman seeks his help to remove a tumor, which is revealed to be a manifestation of a powerful, malevolent spirit. As Harry delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the spirit in question is none other than a vengeful shaman from the past, determined to reclaim his life and wreak havoc. As he grapples with the forces of the supernatural, Harry must enlist the help of a skeptical doctor and an elderly Native American shaman to confront the deadly power that threatens to consume them all. With a mix of horror and fantasy, The Manitou explores themes of spirituality, legacy, and the clash between modernity and ancient wisdom, while delivering a chilling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Cast
Reviews
Critics have had a mixed reception for 'The Manitou,' with many praising its ambitious concept but critiquing the execution. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.3/10, reflecting a split audience response. The review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes gives it a score of 45%, indicating a generally unfavorable reception. The site summarizes: 'While it boasts some intriguing themes regarding Native American culture and spirituality, The Manitou ultimately succumbs to its own contrived plot and uneven pacing.' Metacritic scores the film at 47/100, which suggests mixed or average reviews. 'The special effects are a highlight in their creativity, but they canโt quite elevate a narrative that tends to meander,' notes a reviewer from The New York Times. Overall, while The Manitou includes some interesting ideas and standout performances, especially from Curtis, it often fails to reach its full potential, leaving audiences craving a stronger narrative structure.
