SEATTLE WEEKLY
12/07/05

Forget the David Lynch comparisons. Forget the scenes shot in black-and-white, then in color, to depict the double life of a murder victim, or the big, glaring Oedipus-appreciation sign that positions Karen Black as the deceased's mother and his secret carnival-show lover. Forget the fact that this is based on a shudderingly creepy true story (embellished with folklore), set in Wamego, Kansas, and that every single image in this film is disturbing, whether implicitly or explicitly. Just appreciate Black's performance as a crucifix-clutching, Mary-prayin' loony one minute, and a snuffing, crazed sideshow seductress the next. (Mike Patton from Faith No More is also cast in a double role.) And try not to think about the rest, because your multiple interpretations may drive you mad. Although the psychosis behind the story is unsettling, the temptation to pick director Steve Balderson's brain is unavoidable. Can't wait for the DVD commentary.

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CHRISTINA TWU
Seattle Weekly

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