Gabriel Fights for the Souls of the Damned

Gabriel descends to purgatory to fight for those human souls longing for heaven or if found unworthy...the bowels of hell. Seven Arc Angels fight seven Fallen Angels for rule over purgatory; in human form and with emotions each angel must face a world where fear rules while fighting back the darkness. As the tides of war favour evil only Gabriel has a chance to reclaim the city of purgatory and for all the souls within.

Rating: Restricted for violence, gore, and sexual suggestiveness.

Release Date: November 15, 2007

Starring: Andy Whitfield, Dwaine Stevenson, Samantha Noble, Erika Heynatz, Michael Piccrilli, Harry Pavlidis, Jack Campbell, Kevin Copeland, Brendan Clearkin, Matt Hylton Todd, Valentineo del Toro, Goran D. Kleut, and Amy Mathews.

Director: Shane Abbess.

Writers: Shane Abbess, and Matt Hylton Todd.

The use of dark lighting and drab costumes are two ways director Shane Abbess highlights the strength of evil in this low budget horror film. Most of the costumes consist of bleak, dark colours and promote a feeling of desperation or hopelessness while Gabriel fights overwhelming odds to deliver purgatory from the grips of the Fallen Angels. Although, mostly dark in tone there are several surreal shots of the city that add lighter tones to the film.

Director and writer Shane Abbess financed most of the film on his own and with a budget of approximately $150, 000 "Gabriel," has delivered a somewhat rough feature film. The acting is above average for a low budget film and the story is complex enough to be rewatchable over time. Most of the sets from the film are of derelict buildings, in order to save money and the set design suits the overall dark tones of the story. Although, slightly heavy on the smoke machine "Gabriel," is a fun watch despite an unbelieavably small budget.

It is difficult not to make comparisons between "Gabriel," and another bleak feature film "The Crow." Both feature films take place in dark environments with two returning angels fighting to rid the scourge of evil from a soulless city. While "The Crow," offers several more action scenes "Gabriel," still manages to create a slick, gritty atmosphere with slightly more central characters fighting for deliverance.

Australian film "Gabriel," does not disappoint and may inspire film makers to create their own low budget masterpieces. Full of romance, action, and some surprises "Gabriel," shows what passion and love for film can potentially deliver. Watch this film at least once for "Gabriel's," stylistic approach to an age old theme of good versus evil.

A teaser trailer for the film:



Sources:

Gabriel at IMDB

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