Imagine a time when epic battles with swords and sorcery ruled the big screen, captivating audiences with tales of heroes, wizards, and mythical creatures—only for that magic to fade into obscurity. But here's the thrilling twist: the sword and sorcery genre might just be staging a grand comeback! As a longtime fan of horror and fantasy flicks, I've got to tell you, this resurgence feels like a breath of fresh air in an era dominated by superheroes and dystopias. With the upcoming release of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe just around the corner, signaling a potential new wave of wonder, it's the perfect moment to dive into the latest revival effort: Deathstalker, a remake of the 1983 classic helmed by none other than Steven Kostanski, the brilliant mind behind Psycho Goreman. (And if you're eager to see what critics think, check out Cody Hamman's review right here: https://www.joblo.com/deathstalker-review.)
I recently had the incredible opportunity to chat with Kostanski and star Daniel Bernhardt about their exhilarating project, and let me say, their passion for this film was absolutely contagious. Tragically, a pesky technical snafu on their end wiped out my recorded interview, turning it into a digital ghost from the past. But fear not—I'm drawing from my notes and memories to share the juicy insights I gleaned from our conversation. Kostanski, a die-hard enthusiast of 80s sword and sorcery epics (with a special soft spot for Deathstalker II), set out to bottle that nostalgic lightning all over again. Rather than crafting a shot-for-shot rehash, he leaned into the original film's visual style while sprinkling in clever Easter eggs for longtime fans, creating a fresh yet faithful tribute that honors the roots without feeling like a stale copy.
And this is the part most people miss... The film's journey to the screen wasn't a straightforward blockbuster path. While the Kickstarter campaign didn't cover every penny of the production, it played a pivotal role in securing something crucial: top-notch practical effects. For beginners in film making, practical effects mean using real props, makeup, and mechanical gadgets on set to create gore, monsters, or magic—think old-school wizardry before computers took over. In today's indie scene, budgets often force filmmakers to rely heavily on CGI (computer-generated imagery) for flashy visuals, which can sometimes feel less 'real' or immersive. But thanks to generous backers, Kostanski's team poured resources into developing these hands-on effects, resulting in a more tactile, thrilling experience. It's a bold choice that harks back to the gritty charm of 80s filmmaking, and honestly, it adds an authentic layer that CGI alone might not capture. But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that shunning modern tech like CGI is a quaint throwback, potentially limiting the film's spectacle in a world spoiled by hyper-realistic blockbusters. Do you think practical effects are the way to go for fantasy films, or is it time to fully embrace digital wizardry? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Speaking of standout elements, I've always admired Daniel Bernhardt for his commanding presence in supporting roles—like those formidable henchmen in the John Wick series or his agile agents in The Matrix sequels. So, it was a delight to see him step into the spotlight as the titular Deathstalker. With decades of martial arts expertise under his belt, Bernhardt relished the chance to wield swords and shields in intense combat sequences, describing the role as a lifelong dream come true. If you're someone who loves the high-stakes action and mythical lore of sword and sorcery adventures, this remake is a must-watch—it's packed with the kind of swashbuckling fun that leaves you cheering.
To give you a taste of the story without spoilers, Deathstalker unfolds in the besieged Kingdom of Abraxeon, where the dreaded Dreadites—minions of the ancient sorcerer Nekromemnon—threaten utter chaos. Our hero stumbles upon a cursed amulet amid a blood-soaked battlefield, awakening dark magical forces that mark him as prey for monstrous hunters. Survival demands breaking the curse and confronting an awakening evil, proving that in this tale, death is merely the gateway to epic quests and heroic feats. It's a plot that blends classic fantasy elements with gritty horror undertones, perfect for newcomers exploring the genre or veterans craving that 80s vibe.
Mark your calendars because Deathstalker hits theaters exclusively on October 10th, 2025. If this sparks your curiosity about reviving forgotten genres, or if you've got opinions on remakes versus originals, drop a comment below—do you believe sword and sorcery deserves a full-fledged renaissance, or is it better left as a nostalgic relic? Let's discuss!
About the Author
Critic
Favorite Movies: Se7en, Halloween, Scream, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Back to the Future, Battle Royale, Jaws, The Social Network, Friday the 13th, American Movie, anything by Tarantino, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Evil Dead, The Batman, The Shining, No Country for Old Men, T2, Boyhood, Ed Wood, Jurassic Park, Wild at Heart
Likes: Horror, Movies, Writing, Guitar, the MCU, 'So Bad They're Good' Movies, Video Games, Spider-Man, Whiskey, Professional Wrestling, Hockey, Football, Star Wars, World Domination, Jeopardy, Silence
