Excellent performances all round in this above average thriller that modernizes the Rasputin legend through the ailing son (Mark Spain) of the unhappily married politician David Hemmings and his angst ridden wife (Carmen Duncan) with Robert Powell chilling as the magical Gregory who brings an evil influence into the household after curing Spain. There's no love lost between Hemmings and Duncan which she explains to Powell as she becomes consumed by his presence. A brief tantrum has him stopping dishes thrown by her hitting him and shattering a champagne bottle that she's about to strike him with. At this point, his presence becomes like a drug to her, causing Hemmings to take desperate measures to get rid of him.
There's also veteran actor Broderick Crawford as the family doctor, instantly suspicious about Powell, rather subtle for a change. Duncan, whom "Another World" viewers will recall as the recast Iris, is powerful in this part, certainly a worthy modern successor to Russian Empress Alexandra, and Hemmings (whom a decade before would have been perfect as George) is powerful as well. Powell instills great subtlety into his quiet but manipulative character, truly evil as the role develops, turning this from political thriller to horror movie. Surprised I'd never heard of this movie before as it's quite a mesmerizing experience.
There's also veteran actor Broderick Crawford as the family doctor, instantly suspicious about Powell, rather subtle for a change. Duncan, whom "Another World" viewers will recall as the recast Iris, is powerful in this part, certainly a worthy modern successor to Russian Empress Alexandra, and Hemmings (whom a decade before would have been perfect as George) is powerful as well. Powell instills great subtlety into his quiet but manipulative character, truly evil as the role develops, turning this from political thriller to horror movie. Surprised I'd never heard of this movie before as it's quite a mesmerizing experience.