Cigarette Burns (2005)

I cannot think of one single thing that I would change about this film. The acting is incomparable, the directing deft, and the writing poignantly brilliant.

a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.

While it is a pity that the story wasn't told with more visual finesse, this is trivial compared to our real-world problems. It takes a good movie to put that into perspective.

Great story, amazing characters, superb action, enthralling cinematography. Yes, this is something I am glad I spent money on.

Feels like The Ninth Gate (1999)---very few original ideas make it to film---another derivative --the lead is lame--I found myself waiting for it to end--

In John Carpenter's Cigarette Burns, rare film collector Bellinger (Udo Kier) hires Kirby (Norman Reedus), the director of a cult movie theatre, to try and locate 'La Fin Absolue du Monde', an ultra-rare film so extreme in content (the desecration and torture of an angel!) that it is rumoured to cause chaos, violence and madness in its audience. Deperate for cash, Kirby agrees to try and find the film, but will he dare to watch it himself?Ahh, the irresistible lure of that elusive cinematic obscurity; the uncontrollable drive to see the ultimate in extreme movie-making: as a collector of the rare, forgotten, forbidden and just plain frightful, I fully understand how easy it is to become obsessed with tracking down those seemingly unattainable titles spoken of in revered tones by like-minded individuals. Director Carpenter also understands: this Masters of Horror episode has been specifically designed to resonate with any obsessive horror film fan who has ever gone against better judgement to watch something they may later wish they hadn't.As Carpenter's central character Kirby gets closer to his prize, continuing despite the obvious risks, viewers will undoubtedly be asking themselves if they would be so bold. It's a fascinating subject masterfully handled by one of the undisputed greats of the genre, who expertly blends his intriguing insight into the human psyche with Lovecraftian themes and intense gore (SFX experts KNB contribute to a very nasty beheading and the delightful sight of a man's intestines being wound through a film projector—strong stuff considering this was made-for-TV) to deliver a satisfyingly intense experience.7.5 out of 10, rounded up to 8 for IMDb.

Of the Master's of Horror movies I have seen (which there have been a few here and there) this still stands out as one of the more unique ones. Sure there is a bit of "In the Mouth of Madness" in it, but it still left me wanting to know what was going to happen. The master of horror to do this one is the same fellow who did "In the Mouth of Madness" John Carpenter and let me just say that it is pretty much better than any of his recent movies have been. Of course, it also shows me he has still got it and it makes me sad that there really have been no movies from him in a while that I can remember. This film revolves around a man who tries to find older films or rare films. He is hired on by a man to find this movie that sounds ominous and quite frankly is when one considers one of the props of said movie is a strange old looking man that looks as if something like wings have been chopped off his back. The man has to do a lot to find this film, all the while I am wondering what is one said film. It is a bit of a disappointed when they show the film, but then are they really going to be able to show me something that will supposedly make me mad? Still, very interesting and makes me wish John would write something at least one more time for the big screen.

This episode of "Masters of Horror" was incredible. With John Carpenter directing it, I knew it would be good. Boy, was I sure right! I would of definitely liked to see this as a full length film because it was that good. Norman Reedus (Blade 2) who played "Kirby" was very believable on his quest to find the only copy of this extremely rare and only viewed once film called, "Le Fin Absolue Du Monde". At the only showing of this film, many deaths followed, within that theater! The only known copy of this film was then taken by the government and burned, or so it is believed. Although, the character of "Bellinger" believes a copy still exists. Bellinger, played by Udo Kier needs to get his hands on this film at all costs! He is obsessed with this film. The cost, comes to $200,000, which is exactly what Norman Reedes needs to pay a debt he owes on this theater. But, is putting his life on the line to find this film worth the price? Time will tell. Udo Kier who I've always liked since "Blade" did a great job portraying his character: sick, twisted, and creepy. As Bellinger gets closer to discovering the film reel, more dark and mysterious secrets are revealed, or should I say, relived! Hats off to John Carpenter and I hope he does more films like this. This is a must see! Great pace and suspense. Now the only thing I wish is that I could see "Le Fin Absolue Du Monde"! Even if it means death!