Rigor Mortis
Rigor Mortis

Movie spotlight

Rigor Mortis

2013
Movie
105 min
Cantonese

When a former actor moves into an apartment building with the intention of commiting suicide, he is saved by a Taoist priest who used to specialize in hunting Chinese hopping vampires: or Jiāngshī. Elsewhere in the building, a woman turns to a specialist in black magic to bring her husband back to life.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes77%
Metacritic63/100
Google Users67%
Director: Juno MakGenres: Horror, Action, Fantasy, Supernatural

Plot Summary

A faded ghost-chasing movie star moves into a haunted public housing complex, only to discover that supernatural forces are at play. As he encounters other residents who are also dealing with their own spectral problems, he must confront his past and a malevolent entity that threatens to consume them all. The film blends elements of traditional Hong Kong horror with a modern, stylish aesthetic.

Critical Reception

Rigor Mortis received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its unique blend of supernatural horror, martial arts action, and poignant themes of regret and mortality. The film was noted for its striking visual style, strong performances from its veteran cast, and ambitious storytelling. While some found the narrative occasionally convoluted, it was largely celebrated as a fresh and atmospheric take on the genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stylish direction and atmospheric horror.

  • Appreciated for its unique fusion of Hong Kong ghost lore and action.

  • Commended for strong performances, particularly from the seasoned cast.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's distinctive visual style and its ability to blend classic ghost-story elements with modern filmmaking. Many found the performances compelling and the atmosphere genuinely unsettling. Some viewers noted that the plot could be dense at times, but the overall experience was considered a strong and inventive entry in the horror genre.

Awards & Accolades

The film received numerous nominations and wins at various film festivals, including Best New Director and Best Supporting Actress for Kara Wai at the Hong Kong Film Awards. It was also recognized for its technical achievements in cinematography and visual effects.

Fun Fact

The film pays homage to classic Hong Kong horror films from the 1980s, particularly those involving supernatural detectives and martial arts, featuring many actors who were prominent in that era.

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