The Devil's Rain is the story of 17th century Diabolist, Jonathon Corbis (Ernest Borgnine) and his followers, who were burned at the stake after being betrayed by the Preston family. 300 years later, Corbis returns to search for the book that contains the names of his followers, who had given themselves to the Devil. Without the book, he is unable to deliver the promised souls to the dark lord. The Preston family had managed to keep the book safe for 3 centuries, but now Corbis is determined to take it back. Corbis and his followers have taken a church in an old deserted midwest town as their temple, and It's here that a good vs evil showdown begins.

William Shatner predictably over-acts and Tom Skerritt looks rather bored but Ernest Borgnine completely steals this show. His transformation into the horned demon is utterly bizarre, but he manages to portray the Devil's disciple with a real zest. Also of note is the appearance by Anton Lavey as the High Priest, he's also credited as the film's technical advisor. A daft but entertaining movie, with a fantastically over the top, slimy conclusion. Devil’s Rain probably won’t appear on too many people’s greatest films of all time lists, but it remains a charming, quirky, 70’s Satanic novelty, and I have to admit, I love it.  S.J.T.

Devil’s Rain. 1975

Directed by Robert Fuest 

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