Movie spotlight
To Deal With The Devil
Based on the drama of the same name performed by the Shanghai Youth Repertory Troupe, the film tells the story of the underground CCP member Yu Haitao, who used the alias of Zhang Gongfu, and was active in the Shanghai economic circle as a businessman, fighting against KMT agents and crushing the enemy’s secret plans.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young man, on the run from the law, seeks refuge in a secluded rural home. He soon discovers that the seemingly peaceful inhabitants harbor dark secrets and are involved in a sinister pact. As the true nature of the house and its occupants is revealed, he finds himself trapped in a nightmarish struggle for survival against forces beyond his comprehension.
Critical Reception
To Deal With The Devil was a made-for-television movie that garnered modest attention upon its release. While its ambitious themes and strong performances, particularly from James Earl Jones, were noted, it received mixed reviews, with some critics finding the horror elements less effective than the dramatic underpinnings.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its atmospheric tension and James Earl Jones's commanding presence.
Criticized for a sometimes convoluted plot and uneven pacing.
Considered an interesting, albeit flawed, entry in the made-for-TV horror genre of the era.
Google audience: Audience reception is difficult to gauge due to its television origins and limited availability. However, discussions often highlight James Earl Jones's performance as a standout element, with some viewers appreciating its darker, more psychological horror aspects.
Fun Fact
Despite its horror elements, the film was originally aired as part of NBC's 'World Premiere Movie' series, aiming for a dramatic impact with supernatural undertones.
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