Prepare for a chilling journey into the depths of cult cinema! The 1976 sci-fi horror masterpiece, 'God Told Me To,' is a hidden gem on Prime Video that will leave you questioning reality. But is it a forgotten classic or a controversial cult oddity?
The legendary Larry Cohen, a prolific writer-director, crafted this mind-bending tale. Known for his unique and daring films, Cohen's career began with the comedy 'Bone' and the blaxploitation hits 'Black Caesar' and 'Hell Up in Harlem.' But it was his 1974 horror sensation, 'It's Alive,' that put him on the map, thanks to its jaw-dropping concept of a murderous mutant baby.
Cohen's filmography is vast, including crime thrillers, monster comedies, and, most notably, his outrageous horror flicks. 'Q – The Winged Serpent' and 'The Stuff' are cult favorites, but 'God Told Me To' stands out as a truly bizarre gem. The film follows a devout Catholic cop, Peter, who encounters a shooter claiming divine orders for his actions. This is just the beginning of a series of mass murders, all with the same chilling explanation: 'God told me to.'
As Peter investigates, he uncovers a web of cults, alien abductions, and a mysterious figure named Bernard Phillips. Bernard, a potential alien-human hybrid, seems to be at the center of it all, controlling a cult and the minds of the killers. But the plot thickens with copycat killers and personal vendettas.
The film's climax is a mind-bending revelation about Bernard's true nature and the universe's dark secrets. And let's not forget the iconic appearance of Andy Kaufman as a murderous cop! But here's where it gets controversial—the film's inspiration comes from Cohen's interpretation of the Bible, where God is seen as a violent character. He draws parallels to Erich von Däniken's theories of extraterrestrial influence in ancient religions.
'God Told Me To' is a wild ride that blends horror, sci-fi, and religious themes. Its box office failure and initial critical reception might make you wonder, but modern fans have embraced its unique charm. The film's surreal and nightmarish concepts will leave you questioning reality. Is it a brilliant commentary or a step too far? You decide!
