The Resurrection of Charles Manson

Its not beyond the realms of possibility that followers of the late Charles Manson do actually believe that he is immortal and just waiting to be brought back. Such was/is their fanatical devotion to him.

It’s with that in mind that this film could be approached. Directed by Remy Grillo (his debut and son of Frank), written by Brev Moss and Josh Plasse, as the protagonists drive along a seemingly endless road you might wonder if they will turn off to what’s left of Spahn’s Ranch – the Manson Family’s old California hangout in the 1960s. They don’t and it’s a disappointment when aspiring actor Tianna (Katherine Hughes) and boyfriend Mitch (Josh Plasse) actually turn up at an Airbnb to film a project about Manson.

It’s not long after things start to get weird with the mystical sign ouroboros (symbol of eternity) appearing around the house and on the arms of some of the locals. Later on, Manson devotee Robert (Frank Grillo) and wife Annie (Jaime King) arrive with their own plans.

There are plenty of ideas here though the best is never made of an interesting premise. Using Manson as starting point the film could appear to look beyond him to other charismatic figures who are capable of mass indoctrination, manipulation and abuse of power. The likes of David Koresh come to mind who although dead still has his followers. Needless to say, it’s those who are living and wield this capacity that we should be most concerned about.

Away from the social elements the film is pretty ramshackle clearly filmed on a low budget with the now almost standard Texas Chain Saw of out of towners in the wrong place element. Plasse and Hughes are pretty good in this situation and later on as things start to develop and get nasty. Grillo Sr and King tend to dominate when they are on screen which is as you’d expect in this sort of role, from actors as experienced as these.

With a very short running time there’s a feeling that something's missing, quite a lot in fact. I don’t know if there was pressure on Grillo Jr regarding the film’s odd short run time, it seems unlikely. But if there is a longer cut (Not necessarily a ‘directors’) then this may worth revisiting.

The Resurrection of Charles Manson will be available on digital platforms from 29 May 2023.