The
concept of a 'flying head ghost' has roots in Asian folklore
and is prevalent in many different countries. Over the years, many movies
have been made. Probably the best known is 1989's MYSTICS
IN BALI from the Malay Peninsula where the creature is called
a Penanggalon. There's also THE
WITCH WITH THE FLYING HEAD from Taiwan, plus GHOST
OF THE GUTS EATER and VALENTINE
KRASUE (et al). But regardless of the origin, this monster
is not a cleanly-severed flying head; rather, the spinal column and
internal organs are still attached. This exceptional movie - from Thailand
- tends to be a bit different from the others as it attempts to recreate
the origin of the legend.
Set
in 1763, the story opens with an impressive battle sequence [and one
of the most shocking, realistic beheadings on film]. It all has to do
with rebel forces protecting the Khmer capital city from the invading
Knight Harnsuk. During the battle, King Suranetaravoraman is slain and
young princess Tarawatee taken prisoner. The victor wants Tarawatee
for a wife but she is in love with a Thai spy named Fajang. When she
refuses advances from Knight Harnsuk, the girl is sentenced to being
burnt at the stake. This all leads to a witch switching her soul into
a village girl's body and a 'resurrection' that eventually results in
the birth of the Krasue ghost.
A
Thai film, with optional English subtitles, uncut, 101 min, widescreen,
encoded for ALL REGION, playable on any American DVD machine.
Extras include original theatrical trailers
Nudity,
Violence, Sexual Brutality, Gore, Sexual Situations
for Mature Audiences