When a secret agency find that corpses are being reanimated, they must take on two factions of Martians, Mummies, and even Werewolves in Damon Foster’s bonkers Of Mummies and Martians.
Before delving into our review of the DVD release of “Of Mummies and Martians,” our encounter with Damon Foster’s work was a delightful revelation. Foster, a seasoned filmmaker with a repertoire spanning back to the early 1980s, resurfaced in 2020 with a renewed vigor, spurred by a resurgence in the popularity of his earlier productions like “Martyr X,” “Androidman,” “Shaolin vs. Terminator,” and “Ultra Cyborg.”
Upon receiving the DVD, adorned with captivating lobby card-style posters, our expectations were set adrift in anticipation of what was to unfold. Yet, nothing could prepare us for the whirlwind that ensued within the film’s 90-minute runtime.
“Of Mummies and Martians” defies conventional narrative bounds, weaving a tapestry of laughter, nods of recognition, incredulous head-shakes, and utter bewilderment. From the initial outbreak of zombies in a scientific enclave to the intervention of the enigmatic Purple Lin Kui agents, led by the flamboyantly villainous Senator Orville Orangeman, portrayed with eccentric flair by Rob Heman, the narrative embarks on a riotous odyssey.
Foster, donning multiple roles, including the pint-sized Pinhead, alongside the irreverent Bruce Liar, leads the eclectic ensemble through a kaleidoscope of absurdity, culminating in a cosmic showdown aboard a Martian spaceship. Yes, you read that right—the enigmatic Senator Orangeman reveals himself to be of Martian descent, catapulting the narrative into uncharted realms of extraterrestrial intrigue.
Amidst clashes between Martian factions and the resurgence of Nosferatu, now with an insatiable penchant for unconventional sustenance, “Of Mummies & Martians” unfurls a tale of ancient Egyptian secrets, mummified malevolence, and intergalactic upheaval.
Admittedly, the film’s frenetic pace and myriad subplots may prove daunting to some viewers, yet therein lies its peculiar charm. “Of Mummies & Martians” is a cinematic roller-coaster, defying convention and daring audiences to embrace its unapologetic eccentricity.
From the onset, “Of Mummies and Martians” immerses viewers in a nostalgic aesthetic reminiscent of classic 1950s B-movies, evoking the spirit of renowned directors like William Grefe or Ed Wood. Yet, its utilization of visual effects, albeit often rudimentary and at times seemingly gratuitous, introduces a distinct flavor of whimsy and eccentricity. From the pervasive use of green screens in mundane settings to the whimsical inclusion of stop-motion sequences reminiscent of Ray Harryhausen’s iconic works, the film embraces a deliberate campiness that blurs the line between homage and irreverent parody.
Throughout our viewing experience, the question lingered: is “Of Mummies and Martians” a tongue-in-cheek homage to cult classics such as “Plan 9 From Outer Space” or a deliberate exercise in kitsch reminiscent of more contemporary offerings like “Birdemic”? The inclusion of references, such as the playful nod to Ed Wood’s “Plan 9” with the mention of “Plan 8 from Outer Space,” further complicates this pondering. Compounded by performances oscillating between exaggerated theatrics and wooden delivery, the film teeters on the precipice of self-aware satire and genuine ineptitude.
However, a deeper exploration, facilitated by the accompanying “Making of” featurette, offers insights into director Damon Foster’s deliberate choices and motivations. Foster’s candid acknowledgment of the evolving landscape of filmmaking, juxtaposed with his return after a two-decade hiatus, invites speculation on the film’s intent. Is it a meticulously crafted farce or a genuine attempt at cinematic expression?
In conceding to the former interpretation, one cannot overlook the sheer magnitude of effort invested in the production. Foster’s multifaceted involvement across various facets of filmmaking, as evidenced by his myriad roles in the cast and crew, underscores a passionate commitment to realizing his vision. Despite the inherent challenges posed by limited resources, Foster’s unwavering dedication commands admiration.
Ultimately, “Of Mummies and Martians” may find resonance among audiences seeking unapologetically trashy entertainment, particularly in the convivial settings of late-night gatherings or spirited house parties. Its intermittent humor, both intentional and inadvertent, offers sporadic moments of amusement. However, for discerning cinephiles craving refined cinematic experiences, the film may fall short of expectations. To them, I offer a gentle suggestion: reserve judgment, perhaps save it for a future occasion of jovial revelry, where its peculiar charms may find unexpected appreciation amidst the revelry of inebriated camaraderie.
You can buy a copy of the DVD right HERE.
Leave a Reply