Rob Zombie's 2005 horror flick, The Devil's Rejects, has garnered a massive following over the years and serves as a sequel to his 2003 film, House of 1000 Corpses. The film introduces a set of intriguing characters who continue their violent rampage from the previous installment. Zombie's signature style is evident throughout the movie - dark, intense, and visually striking. He puts his own unique spin on the horror genre, whether it's through his portrayal of the Firefly family or his distinct take on Halloween movies. The Devil's Rejects boasts an impressive Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score of 78%, proving its enduring popularity even after more than a decade since its release. So, what happens in the movie, and how does the story come to a close?
What Is The Devil's Rejects About?
The Devil's Rejects has become a fan-favorite among horror enthusiasts, as it tells the story of the twisted Firefly family, led by the unforgettable Baby Firefly (Sheri Moon Zombie). When lawman John Quincey Wydell sets out to capture the Firefly family for the brutal murders of over 75 people, their world begins to unravel. Following the loss of Rufus Firefly Jr. (Tyler Mane) and the arrest of Mother Firefly (Leslie Easterbrook), Baby and Otis Driftwood (Bill Moseley) embark on a killing spree and ultimately end up at the Kahiki Palms motel, where they are joined by Baby's father, Captain Spaulding (Sid Haig). As expected, the characters continue to revel in their violent tendencies, making them some of the most original and unforgettable horror movie villains to date. It's nearly impossible to categorize them alongside other slasher villains, as they are in a league of their own.
Rob Zombie's The Devil's Rejects is a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. The film's 16th anniversary was celebrated by Zombie with an emotional Instagram post, where he expressed his joy at the movie still garnering new fans every day. The Firefly family, the central characters of the movie, are a cruel and violent bunch who are not meant to be likable. This is a characteristic that is maintained in the franchise's third installment, 3 From Hell, where the characters remain unchanged. This deliberate decision by Zombie highlights the unapologetic nature of his Firefly characters.
How Does The Devil's Rejects End?
The Firefly family may not be the easiest characters to root for, given their consistently despicable behavior. However, horror enthusiasts often appreciate well-defined protagonists who embark on clear journeys. Despite this, the Firefly family's unapologetic darkness is undeniably captivating. Their unwavering commitment to their twisted nature makes it difficult to look away, even when their actions are reprehensible.
The climactic finale of The Devil's Rejects is a thrilling ride that doesn't let up until the very end. After setting a house ablaze, George Wydell (Tom Towles) pursues Baby, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats wondering what will happen next. With Captain Spaulding, Baby and Otis in tow, they steal a car and make a break for it, but the tension mounts as Otis realizes there may be police blocking their escape route.
The ending of The Devil's Rejects leaves audiences with an ambiguous and satisfyingly horrific conclusion. While it may be easy to want the Firefly family to be caught for their heinous actions, their captivating journey and unlikable nature make for a compelling viewing experience. This conclusion ensures that the Firefly franchise still has life and sets the stage for the third and final installment. For a Rob Zombie film, a neatly wrapped up or boring ending would not fit the mold. Zombie's unique filmmaking approach favors strong-willed characters who embrace their primal instincts and interpret classic horror franchises in a fresh, often polarizing way. There is undoubtedly a place in the horror genre for these types of captivating and unconventional stories.
