I see dead people...in Spanish!  We’re checking out the Mexican ghost thriller entitled "Curandero: Dawn of the Demon" out now from Lionsgate Home Entertainment.  The demon review begins its reign of terror below!

   Title: "Curandero: Dawn of the Demon"

   Grade: 3

   Cast: Carlos Gallardo, Gizeht Galatea, Jose Carlos Ruiz

   Director: Eduardo Rodriguez

   Rating: R

   Runtime: 92 minutes

   Release Company: Lionsgate Home Entertainment

   Website: www.miramax.com

The Flick: The box for this flick touts it as “Robert Rodriguez Presents”, meaning he famed "El Mariachi" helmer both wrote and executive produced this little thriller.  And you can certainly tell by the quality of the writing, as the very mystical tale of a Spanish curandero, a faith healer, who is put to the test against a bloodhungry cult is interesting stuff for sure.  (Plus Mariachi bud and seriously under-appreciated actor Carlos Gallardo plays the lead!)  The down side here is the direction by unrelated filmmaker Eduardo Rodriguez feels off and stays the course in terms of stereotypical thriller scares and devices.  Classic half and half – half good, half bad.   

Best Feature: The only feature here, a 'Commentary' track with Eduardo is much less detailed and interesting then the more famed Rodriguez does with his tracks.  

Best Hidden Gem: Again, loved seeing Gallardo get his due – that dude can act!

Worth the Moola: Good story and acting with direction that leaves something to be desired makes this one rentable only.