The Tattooist

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: Novembe 29, 2007 (Singapore)

DVD Release Date: June 24, 2008

Plot 411: An American tattoo artist unknowingly releases a ghost who uses him to kill people.

Review: This is a movie that blends the supernatural world, Samoan culture and tattooing into a unique product that many audiences can enjoy. By incorporating an evil spirit into the plot, you automatically pique the interest of horror fans. Contrasting the Western and South Pacific views of tattooing and its ritual and cultural significance is sure to win over Polynesians or ethnic studies lovers. Featuring the artistry of tattooing for a mainstream audience to consume can expand this movie's range even further. Jake (Jason Behr) is a talented tattoo artist whose gimmick is to tattoo people for health and healing purposes. He's really a con artist who is co-opting other people's style and cultural significances and using it in his own work to achieve fame. What a poser, right? Well, this cannot go unpunished and he is soon caught up in some weird and freaky occurrences. Everyone he tattoos dies horrible deaths as their body is infected with ink until it comes out of their pores. Jake must uncover the source of this before it affects Sina (Mia Blake), his love interest.

Watch It: For a twisted horror flick based in the Polynesian culture. It's not something you see every day, that's for sure.

Skip It: If you're totally over movies with evil spirits who kill people a la The Ring.