In 2016, Finnish actor, effects artist and director Artturi Olavi Rostén signs the direction of The Defiler (Finland - 2016), a horror short film that highlights obscenity, violence, death but also lots of splatter and gore. Designed to bring the 1980s to life in 24 minutes, this incredible Finnish short is not only a manifesto of 1980s cinematography and music but also a spectacle about depravity and degradation.
The film relies on the dominant presence of a spectacular heroine, Greta (Diana Ball), who for love and revenge will transform into an impressive war machine. Escaped from prison and driven by pure sentiment, the vengeful, strong-willed escapee will traverse a seedy city delving into the most degrading slums of the place. Behind her only a trail of blood and torn bodies.
The story of The Defiler deals with themes such as prostitution, drugs and immorality. All channeled into a context populated by characters who symbolize psycho-physical malaise and decay. Greta breaks into this human filth by acting with coldness and determination until she transforms into an incredible villain who is the protagonist of the film's bloodiest and most crucial scenes.
In The Defiler practical effects flourish copiously to adorn the most inhuman murders (heads smashed or cut in two, throat slashes, emasculations). The result is a satisfying slaughter seasoned with various bodily fluids that embellish the most revolting moments. The modus operandi of the energetic protagonist, accompanied by the disruptive and extraordinary soundtrack (completely anchored by the film), only raises the adrenaline rate in the viewer for an outstanding result.
Insane and bloodthirsty, The Defiler is an exciting auditory and visual trip that not only reflects a love of the past but also boasts an innovative story.
In the cast of The Defiler, in addition to Diana Ball, also Sara Koiranen, Markus Harjula, Daniil Kozlov, Tito Tuononen, Sini Sandman, Tomi Tuominen, Junani Pennala, Toni Kandelin, Pyry Sopenlehto, Joonatan Järvinen, Kristian Aho, and Petri Aulin.
Special effects are by Ari Savonen, Minja Tuomisalo and Johanna Tuominen while the soundtrack is by Tatu Aittamaa, Teemu Kilkki, Anton Froloff, Asko Lintunen, Kalle Rantakallio, Juuso Peltola and Karo von Rutenhjelm.
The screenplay is by Aku Salminen.
The Defiler falls in the Official Selections of the 2016 Optical Theatre Film Festival for the categories of "Best Trash Short Film," "Best Director," "Best Screenplay," "Best Cinematography," "Best Supporting Actor," "Best Music," and "Best Special Effects." Diana Ball was honored with the "Best Villain" award.
