Waxwork (1988): Let's talk about that wax museum scene, shall we?

Okay, so I just rewatched Waxwork (1988) and, man, this movie is just so delightfully bonkers. I know the practical effects are... dated, but they honestly add to the charm, right? The premise alone is killer: a creepy wax museum that literally sucks you INTO the exhibits, to fight off some of the most notoriously evil characters in history as they wreak havoc. It's like a horror anthology wrapped in a single location thriller! What I really wanted to talk about is the cinematography in those individual 'waxwork' scenes. Each one is so distinctly styled to match the era or the monster they're featuring. The vampire's castle oozes gothic atmosphere and dark shadows and then the werewolf scene is all hazy moonlight and shaky cam. It really helped to sell the idea that they weren't just in a museum anymore, but were transported to a different world. And the director, Anthony Hickox, actually had a pretty keen eye for pacing. Each vignette felt just long enough to build tension and deliver a satisfying (if bloody) payoff. The camera work is not exactly groundbreaking but it's very effective. I will admit, the acting can be a little rough around the edges. Zach Galligan feels like he's still stuck in Gremlins mode, bless his heart. But the supporting cast REALLY delivers. David Warner is always amazing and Patrick Macnee's role is basically a glorified cameo but he brings such gravitas. Plus, the film isn't afraid to get silly! I mean, the zombie scene is practically slapstick. Overall, Waxwork is a fun, flawed, and strangely inventive horror flick. Not going to change the world, but I loved seeing how each different waxwork scene was filmed. If you're looking for something a bit different and aren't afraid of some cheesy gore, give it a watch. What were your favorite 'waxwork' scenes? I really loved the Marquis de Sade one.