10 Best Creature Features Of The 1980s

Almost a century after his death, H.P. Lovecraft is still revered for his work in cosmic horror. Having said that, the even best filmmakers have struggled to transition his stories to the big screen since Lovecraftian lore is so cerebral and otherworldly.

That said, Re-Animator director Stuart Gordon knocked it out of the park with his adaption of From Beyond. 

Our story begins with Dr. Pretorious and his science team putting the finishing touches on a device that will allow them to perceive other dimensions. Unfortunately, Pretorious is transformed into an insane monstrosity after being exposed to other realities, forcing the remaining scientists to do all they can to destroy him.

From Beyond isn't conventionally scary, but it's jaw-dropping on a technical level. Rather than showcasing Pretorious in one monstrous form, the SFX team devised several designs to highlight the mad doctor's constantly evolving mutations. Some phases only appear for a couple of seconds, but it's obvious the crew went all out with each one.

Certain elements don't work - especially the gratuitous sex sequences - but Gordon captures the mood, atmosphere, and eldritch nature of Lovecraft's work in a way few filmmakers have managed.