Shadowzone

In the science-fiction horror movie Shadowzone from 1990, a group of scientists is sent to an abandoned underground bunker in the middle of the New Mexico desert to investigate strange phenomena that have been detected in the area. The bunker was previously used for military experiments involving matter transportation, and the scientists are tasked with figuring out what happened to the personnel who were last stationed there.

The team of scientists is led by Dr. Erhardt (Louise Fletcher), a no-nonsense woman who is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery. One of her team members is Dr. Kipling (David Beecroft), a young and ambitious scientist who is eager to make a name for himself. James Hong also appears in the film in a supporting role as a security officer assigned to protect the scientists.

At first, the team has trouble finding evidence of any abnormal activity, but they soon begin to experience strange occurrences themselves. They hear eerie sounds and see shadowy figures moving around the bunker. As they investigate further, they discover that the bunker is not just abandoned, but it is also haunted by a mysterious force.

As the team tries to unravel the mystery, they discover that the bunker was used to transport matter to an alternate dimension, or "shadowzone." They find a device that allows them to see into this other dimension, and they see images of grotesque creatures that are unlike anything they have ever seen before.

The scientists soon realize that one of their team members has been possessed by one of these creatures, and they must fight to free him from its influence. They also discover that the creatures from the shadowzone are able to manipulate matter in their own dimension, and they are trying to break through into our world. The scientists must find a way to stop them before it's too late.

Shadowzone is a suspenseful and creepy movie that combines elements of science-fiction, horror, and thriller genres. The film is well-written and well-acted, with convincing performances from the lead actors. The special effects, while somewhat dated by modern standards, are still effective at creating an atmosphere of tension and fear.

One of the strengths of the film is its use of practical effects and puppetry to bring the otherworldly creatures to life. The filmmakers wisely chose to avoid using computer-generated effects, which would have looked out of place in a movie from this era. Instead, they relied on traditional techniques like prosthetics and animatronics to create the monsters, which adds to the film's nostalgic charm.

Another standout element of Shadowzone is its setting. The abandoned bunker is a claustrophobic and eerie location, filled with dark corners and hidden spaces. The cinematography is effective at capturing the sense of confinement and fear that the characters experience as they explore the bunker.

Overall, Shadowzone is an entertaining and well-crafted movie that is sure to appeal to fans of science-fiction and horror. It's a great example of mid-'90s genre filmmaking and a fine addition to any cult film collection.