About Lord of Illusions (HBO) - 1995

Lord of Illusions is a 1995 American horror film written and directed by Clive Barker, based on his earlier short story, The Last Illusion. The film presents Barker's signature elements of horror combined with investigative elements. It follows private investigator Harry D'Amour who stumbles upon a dark, supernatural world of illusionists in Los Angeles.

Making / Production

Written and directed by acclaimed horror novelist Clive Barker, Lord of Illusions was the third feature film he directed after Hellraiser and Nightbreed. Barker blends hard-boiled detective thriller with supernatural horror while elaborating a fresh vision of magic as a dark, primordial force.

Actors

• Scott Bakula as Harry D'Amour - Bakula brings to the character of D'Amour a ruggedly charismatic and sagacious persona. He embodies a cynical and world-weary detective plunged into a terrifying world beyond mundane comprehension.
• Famke Janssen as Dorothea Swann - Famke portrays Dorothea, a complex character torn between her loyalty to her husband and her attraction to Harry. Her performance presents an intriguing, layered portrayal of vulnerability and resolve.
• Kevin J. O'Connor as Philip Swann - O'Connor portrays the haunted illusionist with a fine blend of mystique and despair that underscores his tragic fate.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is Clive Barker's third directorial effort, after Hellraiser and Nightbreed.
• Director's Cut of the movie includes several scenes that were not in the original theatrical release.
• The character Harry D'Amour also appears in several of Clive Barker's novels and stories.

Quotes

• "Magic is a disease. Once it catches hold there's no telling what you'll do."
• "There are two kinds of people in this world, those who love illusions and those who love the truth. I can never decide which is best."

Music, Soundtrack

• The original score for the film was composed by Simon Boswell.
• The soundtrack creates an eerie and chilling ambiance which amplifies the suspense and horror in the film.