This is the first in a long running series of Puppet Master films. Its an enjoyable little film, with great special effects and an involving story.
In a pre titles sequence we see Puppet Master Andre Toulon take his own life, as assassins approach his room, but not before he has hidden his magical puppets in a hidden panel.
Then the story turns to the present day, where four psychics have been summoned by a fifth Neil Gallagher, to the same Hotel where Toulon died. It seems they have all been taking part in research into Toulon's secrets of animating his puppets. When they arrive, they are greeted by Gallagher's wife, who informs them that he has died, having taken his own life. He may be dead, but there is something else alive in the Hotel, something determined that the Psychics wont discover Toulon's secrets.
The actors are all good, but its the murderous mannequins that are the real stars of the film. They are all excellently animated, and theres much fun to be had as they dispose of their human enemies. My particular favourite is Ms Leech who vomits leeches onto her victims body, draining them of blood.
Having praised the film, I must add that I feel it is a tad overrated, and not the classic many hail it as. Very enjoyable all the same.
The DVD release I am reviewing is excellent, with extras including a making of documentary. I give the film a solid 3 out of 5