Describing Mystics in Bali as a theatrical oddity would be one hell of an understatement. The first (and hopefully NOT last) Indonesian horror flick to grace my DVD collection now proudly occupies a space on my shelf. There's a disclaimer on the DVD packaging that reads, "Be Warned - You've never seen a film like this before!" and all I have to say is "damn right!"

While Mystics is light on every cinematic element that would make it a best picture Oscar contender it's heavy on some of the most bizarre supernatural horror elements I have ever seen in a motion picture. The flick isn't scary, and at times may even try to take itself a bit too seriously, but overall we've got a very enjoyable film here folks. Mystics in Bali is without a doubt a midnight movie to the highest degree.

The story is pretty simple, perhaps even too simple? A young (wish I could say pretty, but you know how it goes sometimes) student is trying to master the mysterious black arts one culture at a time. While vacationing in Bali, Catherine decides to check into the Leák a mysterious black magic that would really best be left alone. With the help of her friend Mahendra (I think he's Catherine's little sister...make a move already dude!), Catherine locates a laughing witch in the forest willing to become her mentor...but of course not without a price (believe me, the true oddness that is Mystics has only just begun).

Catherine makes repeated trips in and out of the forest for her lessons (sometimes while wearing underwear specially requested by the witch) and easily perfects her craft - or does she? The witch (with a voice that resembles a version of Yoda that's had one too many Marlboro's) sneaks payment from young Catherine in a most unexpected and bizarre manner. While Catherine sleeps, her head detaches (spine and all) and flies through the air in search of blood. At one point, Catherine's flying head munches between the legs of a woman in labor (yes you read that right!). To say anymore at this point would be nothing short of criminal so I'll stop right there. Besides, there are very few words that can do these whacked out visuals any justice and half of the fun is discovering all of the weirdness on your own.

It's really hard to pinpoint the exact charm of Mystics, I doubt it will ever be regarded as a classic or a true innovator of the fantasy/horror sub genre (simply because it isn't). That being said, the flick is a hell of a lot of fun, complete with moments that will leave you slack jawed and stupefied (and I'm not just talking special effects here either!). The flying head is pretty remarkable, even if there are a few bad 80's optical effects to be found, in this instance though the charm definitely outweighs the harm.

I guess it just goes to show once again that the good ole' US of A weren't the only one's making cheese ball horror flicks in the 80's. Having the opportunity to see Mystics in Bali (a film that I never even knew existed until now) was a real treat. Despite the uneven performances, silly script, storyline and its pure defiance to make much sense, Mystics in Bali is a must at the very least for its sheer visual audacity. Mystics is full of some great (and some not so great) old school optical effects and despite not being an American film, it's still very 80's all the way. Besides, there's a detachable flying head for pete sakes!

Mondo Macabro has done a spectacular job in bringing Mystics in Bali to DVD. While the transfer is a bit rough around the edges at spots, the overall effect is quite pleasing. Black levels are fairly solid and colors are quite often lively and bright. There are moments that won't allow the film to surpass its obvious budgetary limitations, but for a lost and almost forgotten flick, Mondo Macabro has done an outstanding job. Not to mention the impressive scope framing which does seem to add a bit more legitimacy to the whole affair. Equally impressive is the mono soundtrack with virtually no evidence of distortion, hiss or background noise. Nothing to tear the roof off the mutha, but you get the idea.

Extras include an impressive and extremely entertaining documentary entitled Fantasy Films From Indonesia that runs about 25 minutes. Other extras include text essays on Indonesian exploitation and how to officially become a Leák (DON'T try this at home) and a director's filmography for H Tjut Djalil (I really do HAVE to see Lady Terminator!).

Mondo Macabro continues to lead the pack in oddball obscurities on DVD accompanied with some of the most interesting featurettes as well. Whether you're digging into their PAL or NTSC collection, each of Mondo's discs deserve a spot on every cult fan's shelf, and Mystics in Bali is no exception. Highly recommended!

Editor's Note - Mystics in Bali is an all region PAL DVD. You will need a PAL compatible player in order to enjoy.

For more info visit Mondo Macabro UK or Mondo Macabro USA.