One of Roger Corman’s many contributions to the world of cult classic cinema includes the 1983 sword and sorcery movie Deathstalker and its sequels. Now, decades after the last film was released in 1991, a new Deathstalker movie is currently being directed by Steven Kostanski.
Fans of genre cinema are most likely familiar with Kostanski. His directorial efforts include The Void, Leprechaun Returns, and Psycho Goreman as well as the upcoming film Frankie Freako. Now he’ll be bringing his talents to the Deathstalker franchise for an all-new installment currently filming in Canada.
As shared by Variety, the first look at this highly-anticipated Deathstalker movie has been released, which features John Wick actor Daniel Bernhardt as the titular character. The outlet summarizes his character as “a barbarian cursed by a magical talisman, leading him into conflict with a malevolent wizard and monstrous assassins.”
For those expecting a modern-day sword and sorcery movie to rely on CGI, that won’t be the case with Steven Kostanski’s Deathstalker. As with his previous films, this new movie will once again rely on practical effects to tell its story. The “reboot focuses on the fantasy setting, utilizing creature suits, prosthetic FX make-up and stop-motion animation from his Action Pants FX shop.”
Here’s the first look at Daniel Bernhardt in Deathstalker as the titular character:
Roger Corman Reboot ‘Deathstalker,’ Exec Produced by Guns N’ Roses’ Slash, Unveils First Look, Raven Banner Launches Sales at Cannes (EXCLUSIVE) – Variety https://t.co/qs71Zpz3Op
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Bernhardt also had the following to say about the film, which appears to actually act as a sequel to the original movies:
“I am thrilled to be working with Steven. I love this genre, and what Steven created in his creature shop is mind-blowing. I am so excited to do battle as a Deathstalker who is more of a grizzled war veteran in this story.”
Hopefully we’ll have more details soon for the new Deathstalker movie. In the meantime, this first look is sure to get fans of the original franchise excited. Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional news as we have it.