Legions is an Argentine horror comedy about a man named Antonio Poyju (German de Silva) who is descended from a line of sorcerers. He is locked away in an asylum where he works on plays about his life. When a demon comes to take over Argentina, Antonio knows it is up to him and his daughter to save the country. Unfortunately, Helena (Lorena Vega) has forgotten how to use her abilities. Can her father reteach her in time to save everyone?
The marketing is centered around the film being a “love letter to The Evil Dead“. This can be seen throughout the film in its well done creature designs and splatter effects. In many cases, the homage is spot on, as many of the demons look like they could be right out of the Sam Raimi classic. There are also some impressive gore effects. Legions also does a good job of mixing comedy into its story.
The camerawork and setting may be more impressive. Director Fabian Forte takes less of a cue from Raimi and brings his own touch to atmospheric set pieces. These moments bring a chilling tone to Legions that is sometimes lacking when things oscillate between laughs and scares. They also point out how tonally uneven the script is. The movie is never able to meld comedy and horror together and just kinda bounces between the two.
Thankfully, Legions boasts a strong main character. Antonio is funny and capable, making it easy for audiences to get behind him. His relationship with his daughter also serves to anchors things. Keeping the story straightforward was also a wise idea since it allows for the film’s strengths like its engaging lead, and blood soaked mayhem.
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