This episode of the "Weird House Cinema" podcast explores the film "Land of the Minotaur" (also known as "The Devil's Men"), discussing its production and notable aspects. The hosts discuss the film's Greek-American co-production status, its combination of satanic cult and Minotaur cult themes, and its soundtrack by Brian Eno. They praise the film's production elements, while acknowledging its shortcomings and repetitive script. The hosts also highlight the unique treatment of sexism and exploitation in the film, noting its deviation from typical exploitative elements. The episode delves into the visual aspects of the film, including its impressive cave locations and gothic dungeon cult set design. The hosts compare and contrast "Land of the Minotaur" with other cult of human sacrifice movies, and explore satanic cult films, such as the Blind Dead movies, and their influences. They also touch on the depiction of the Minotaur and Greek folk horror. The episode concludes with a discussion on the film's cast, characters, and the various works and filmography of Donald Pleasance. Additionally, it briefly explores the hosts' transition into podcasting and discusses the launch of a new podcast by Elvis Jaran and the upcoming iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas.
Anti-commonsence
1. Contrary to expectations, the film "Land of the Minotaur" does not rely on typical exploitative elements or excessive violence often associated with the exploitation film genre.
2. The film aims to deviate from '70s sexism and largely avoids objectifying women, although it does contain some instances of sexism.
3. The film's portrayal of satanic cults explores the benefits received by cult members, such as financial success and career opportunities through pacts with the devil.
4. The film embraces pyramid schemes as a possible explanation for the motivations of cultists dedicated to practices related to the devil.
5. The hosts express their preference for more and louder music in the film's score, despite recognizing the quality of Brian Eno's composition.
6. The hosts overlook certain missed opportunities in relation to Greek folk horror and the portrayal of the Minotaur in the film.
7. The film claims to be "the most terrifying film of 1977" in its trailer, but the hosts provide counterarguments by mentioning other films released in the same year that could be considered more terrifying.
8. The hosts express their satisfaction with the Blu-ray release of the film, highlighting its pristine restoration and additional content.
9. The hosts express limited interest in Troma films, a genre known for embracing cheesiness, and reveal their personal disinterest in watching them.
10. The hosts praise the enjoyment of explosions in the film and suggest playing such films in the background during other activities.
