Machine Head (2000)

Dir: Michael Patrick Leonard Murphy (I think?)

Ultra-obscure weirdness that got released in the UK with the worst quality DVD transfer imaginable. It looks like a straight copy from a 3rd generation VHS tape that the cat sicked up on, which is a shame as the movie deserves better. In true Frankenstylee, a nerd brings a corpse back to life by attaching a lawnmower motor to its head and doing science (reversal of polarity, bouncing graviton particle beams or some other such made-up shit). This leads to a RAMPAGE! The script is surprisingly witty and poignant given the subject matter and, while it's clearly an el cheapo production, the editing and photography indicate the director at least went to film school. Some crowd scenes and impressive looking pyro also make the most of budgetary constraints. In fact, predictable storyline and some questionable acting aside, I found it hard not to warm to this. It's got heart. Even if that heart runs on petrol. Shame no one involved (seemingly) ever did anything again as it could've been the start of some beautiful careers. **1/2