As a cinephile who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of European cinema, I find myself captivated by films that delve into history and folklore to create thought-provoking social commentary. One such masterpiece is Amando de Ossorio’s “Tombs of the Blind Dead,” a chilling horror film that expertly weaves together the legend of the Knights Templar with Spain’s tumultuous political past under Franco’s dictatorship.
Some remarkable accomplishments in the field of horror aren’t solely born from a screenwriter’s creativity, but rather stem from folklore and historical events. These stories can serve as a subtle form of social critique. For instance, in 1972, Spanish director Amando de Ossorio explored the legends surrounding the Knights Templar, who were famed for their participation in the Crusades and later accused of heresy and black magic. The result was the chilling masterpiece, “Tombs of the Blind Dead,” a film that not only created an eerie ambiance but also spawned three sequels and has since become a cherished gem among enthusiasts of cult European cinema.
In his attempt to revive the Knight Templars, De Ossorio’s production left audiences astounded, particularly due to their eerie, specter-like actions, skeletal visages, and music that echoed Gregorian chants. This portrayal of the Templars also served as a covert reflection of the political environment prevailing in Spain from 1937 to 1975 under the rule of fascist general Francisco Franco. The Catholic Church and Franco’s regime were deeply connected, with the Knight Templar being an essential element of the European Crusades aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land. The Tombs of the Blind Dead seamlessly combines these distinct elements.
The Significance of the Knights Templar
Artists have often used their work as a means to express and critique societal issues, including oppressive political climates, throughout history. One of the most significant examples of this can be seen in Pablo Picasso’s famous painting, Guernica. This piece directly reflects the chaos that ensued during Franco’s ascent to power, specifically the bombing of the city with the same name. The painting is a powerful collage of distorted human and animal figures, offering a stark depiction of the destruction wrought by the Spanish Civil War, ultimately enabling Franco to gain control.
Although Tombs of the Blind Dead does not explicitly depict any specific element of Franco’s regime, it establishes a connection between Catholicism and the predatory nature of evil that aligns with fascism. During Franco’s rule, the Catholic Church played a significant role in validating the dictatorship, and the two entities were so interconnected that religious leaders would often promote government propaganda during church services. This distortion of faith can be seen in the legends and myths surrounding the Knights Templar.
The captivating tale unfolds about the Knights Templar, established in 1119, who were easily identified by their white robes adorned with a bold red cross. They played significant roles in numerous Crusades and swiftly amassed wealth and influence. However, in 1307, they were falsely accused of Satanism and heresy, with some admitting to these charges under the intense pressure of torture. Consequently, they faced a grim fate by being burned at the stake.
The movie “Tombs of the Blind Dead” portrays fictional tales of satanic rituals, where the Templars are shown participating in gruesome sacrifices of innocent people. This distorted transformation of an esteemed institution that symbolizes Catholicism echoes the misuse and corruption of the church during Franco’s rule.
Sight and Sound Create a Nightmarish Atmosphere
1972 saw the release of “Tombs of the Blind Dead,” a horror film that followed close on the heels of George Romero’s groundbreaking “Night of the Living Dead” (1968). Like many horror films, this one was influenced by trends, and Amando de Ossorio likely drew inspiration from Romero in crafting his Templars. One of the standout features of the “Blind Dead” series is its haunting ambiance and visual style.
The title suggests a connection between the Templars and being deprived of sight while relying on sound, which underscores their predatory instincts, indiscriminately attacking anyone they encounter. Similarly, Franco’s regime, spanning over several decades, left an impact on the entire nation, as evidenced by the manner in which the undead blindly roam the countryside, targeting any individuals who happen to cross their path.
Distinguishing Between Folklore and Reality
Distinguishing authentic Knights Templar history from the false tales of satanic rituals and immoral behaviors has indeed proved difficult for many scholars. In much the same way, it’s challenging to distinguish truth from information extracted under torture and confession, as was the case with Gilles de Rais. The portrayal of the blind dead being welcomed by characters in the movie seems to echo this concept.
As the reign of terror by the Blind Dead unfolds, various characters respond in a variety of ways: some accept the tales told by the Templars as truth, others question or dismiss them altogether. This array of responses mirrors that of a new regime being established, with some people adhering to the rules and teachings, others resisting, and yet others recognizing the threats only when they personally encounter them or it’s already too late. The spectrum of emotions is vividly portrayed in Tombs of the Blind Dead, showcasing how individuals react to oppression.
The Tombs of the Blind Dead, from the 1970s, stands out as a distinctive gem amidst other productions. During a time when the concept of a zombie apocalypse was just budding and Spain was still grappling with internal conflicts, these two realms merged to create a story that, like the legends of the Knights Templar, has endured and captured people’s imaginations.
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2024-08-31 00:01