The Film (3/5)

As the end of the world draws closer, a young pregnant woman (Demi Moore) discovers that her unborn baby could be the final sign of Judgment day.

THE SEVENTH SIGN (1988) is a movie I’ve always heard mixed things about. Most movie guides reviewed it favorably. But it didn’t have much lasting power. To be honest before this Blu-ray was announced, I had completely forgotten about it. But to my surprise, once I popped the disc in the player, it turned out to be an exciting little thriller with some fantastic camerawork.

Demi Moore (A FEW GOOD MEN, GI JANE) is the star of the show, and she gets a chance to deliver a truly inspiriting performance. As a troubled mother to be, she is believable and gives off a natural caring energy. The script gets wild with its doomed day talk, and the plot holes are many. But with this Moore makes the story flow and adds emotional depth to an otherwise cliched character. 

Jurden Prochnow (DAS BOAT, THE KEEP) plays a mysterious drifter who happens to be tied to God. In the role he mixes unnerving smiles with an otherworldly vibe. Michael Biehn (ALIENS) also turns in some good work as the trouble lawyer husband. He gets a chance to play against type with a lowkey role next to the action parts of James Cameron films. Peter Friedman may not be convincing as an Italian priest, but in his villainous role he gets a good chance to milk the mood of the piece.

The screenplay by Clifford and Ellen Green flows naturally. Unlike some other religious horror tales, SEVENTH SIGN doesn’t get trapped in holy details. The end of the world plot is a tricky one to do without becoming preachy. Here it does so in spades. Director Carl Schultz turns this apocalypse thriller into an arthouse fever dream at points with some truly impressive visuals.

The movie still suffers from some dense plot holes and a baffling plot twist during the third act. But for those looking for a spooky surprise look no further.

Audio/Video (4/5)

The English 2.0 DTS-HD Master audio is a fine stereo mix. There is no hiss or pops. The soundtrack is a little muffed in a few spots and the sound effects during the shootout seemed audio tuned. English subtitles are included.

The 1080p HD picture is the true highlight of the disc. The picture looks balanced and the black levels are smooth. The reds and blues are both dreamy. There is some natural film grain, but no real print damage.

Extras (4/5)

There are interviews with actors Michael Biehn, Peter Friedman, John Taylor, Director Carl Schultz, and finally screenwriters Clifford and Ellen Green.

Overall (4/5)

THE SEVENTH SIGN is an unsung doomsday thriller that still holds up since the 80’s. Recommended.