Toxic Crusader: A Radiant Retrospective of Toxie’s Glow-Up

21 Saturday Dec 2024

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In the annals of cult cinema and alternative media, few names resonate with as much chaotic charm as Troma Entertainment. Founded by Lloyd Kaufman and Michael Herz in 1974, Troma carved a niche with its low-budget, boundary-pushing films that celebrated the absurd, the grotesque, and the unapologetically bizarre. At the heart of this madcap legacy stands Toxie—the Toxic Avenger—a mop-wielding mutant superhero who became the unlikeliest of icons. The journey from The Toxic Avenger (1984) to Toxic Crusader, a 1991 animated series, encapsulates Troma’s unique blend of irreverence, resilience, and impact on both cult and mainstream pop culture.

The Genesis of Toxie: From Outcast to Cult Hero

Toxie was born out of The Toxic Avenger, Troma’s quintessential splatter comedy. A grotesque, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt story about Melvin Ferd, a bullied janitor who falls into a vat of toxic waste and emerges as a disfigured yet heroic defender of Tromaville, the film epitomised Troma’s ethos. It combined slapstick humour, over-the-top violence, and biting satire on societal ills, creating a unique genre hybrid that earned a cult following.

Toxie’s appeal lay in his paradoxical nature: a hideous figure with an unwavering moral compass, he represented the underdog and the misfit, becoming a symbol of empowerment for audiences drawn to outsider narratives.

Toxic Crusader: Troma Goes Mainstream

In an improbable twist, Toxie leaped into the sanitised world of Saturday morning cartoons with Toxic Crusader. Aimed at children, the animated series toned down the original’s gruesome violence and bawdy humour while amplifying its environmentalist message. Toxie and his band of equally mutated friends fought against the villainous Dr. Killemoff and his polluting cohorts, creating an ecologically conscious narrative well ahead of its time.

While the show only ran for 13 episodes, its colorful characters, zany humour, and merchandising—including action figures, video games, and lunchboxes—cemented Toxie’s place in pop culture. The series introduced Troma’s sensibilities to a wider audience, planting seeds of appreciation for the bizarre among a new generation.

Lloyd Kaufman and the Troma Legacy

Lloyd Kaufman, Troma’s eccentric co-founder and the mastermind behind The Toxic Avenger, has been the driving force behind the studio’s enduring legacy. Known for his DIY ethic and irreverent humour, Kaufman turned Troma into a beacon for independent filmmakers. His advocacy for free expression and independence has inspired countless creatives, cementing his reputation as a counterculture icon.

Troma’s commitment to low-budget filmmaking and guerrilla marketing ensured its survival in a rapidly changing industry. Kaufman’s insistence on creative control over profit-seeking has allowed Troma to remain a unique voice in cinema, untainted by mainstream trends.

Toxie’s Impact: The Cult That Never Fades

The legacy of Toxie and The Toxic Avenger extends far beyond its initial release. It has spawned sequels, a musical adaptation, comic books, and even a forthcoming reboot directed by Macon Blair, with Peter Dinklage stepping into the titular role.

Toxie’s environmental crusades in Toxic Crusader predated the widespread eco-awareness of the 21st century, proving remarkably prescient. Meanwhile, the character’s embrace of his imperfections resonates in a media landscape increasingly focused on diversity and inclusion.

Troma’s influence, embodied by Toxie, is visible in the works of filmmakers like James Gunn, who began his career with Troma, and Quentin Tarantino, who has openly praised Kaufman’s films. Their commitment to pushing boundaries and celebrating the unconventional owes much to the trails blazed by Troma.

The Toxic Avenger and its animated offshoot, Toxic Crusader, epitomise the idiosyncratic charm of Troma Entertainment. Toxie’s evolution from an R-rated antihero to a child-friendly champion of the environment showcases the versatility of Kaufman’s vision and the enduring appeal of the bizarre.

As the reboot looms on the horizon, there’s no better time to revisit Toxie’s origins and celebrate the studio that brought him to life. Troma Pictures and Lloyd Kaufman remain unyielding in their commitment to subversive storytelling, proving that even in the face of an ever-changing cinematic landscape, the cult of Toxie—and Troma—remains gloriously toxic.

  • Saul Muerte

Never Let Go: Survival Horror That Grips but Doesn’t Thrill

21 Saturday Dec 2024

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Alexandre Aja’s Never Let Go offers a chilling yet uneven exploration of survival, isolation, and familial bonds under the shadow of a supernatural threat. Starring Halle Berry as the fiercely protective Momma, the film presents moments of genuine tension and intrigue but struggles to rise above its derivative foundation.

Set against the foreboding backdrop of an expansive forest, the story revolves around Momma and her two sons, Nolan (Percy Daggs IV) and Samuel (Anthony B. Jenkins), as they navigate a world seemingly overrun by an entity known only as “The Evil.” The family’s strict rituals—tied ropes, daily prayers, and isolation—serve as both their salvation and source of conflict.

Halle Berry delivers a raw and committed performance as a mother unraveling under the weight of paranoia and hunger. Berry’s portrayal grounds the film, lending depth to Momma’s escalating visions of supernatural horrors. Her scenes with Percy Daggs IV and Anthony B. Jenkins brim with palpable tension, highlighting the strain of survival on family dynamics.

The tension-building sequences—particularly a near-fatal encounter with “The Evil” and a brutal winter forcing difficult choices—showcase Aja’s talent for crafting dread. The film’s snowy, desolate landscapes and Robin Coudert’s haunting score amplify the atmosphere, creating an environment where danger lurks in every shadow.

Yet, Never Let Go falters in its reliance on familiar survival horror tropes. The central mystery of “The Evil” is teased effectively but never fully realised, leaving viewers with a predictable twist and a sense of missed opportunity. While the narrative toys with psychological ambiguity—questioning whether the supernatural threat is real or imagined—it ultimately settles on an ending that feels more derivative than daring.

Despite its shortcomings, the film’s production values shine. Aja’s direction captures the claustrophobia of the cabin and the vast, oppressive wilderness beyond. The child actors deliver commendable performances, particularly Jenkins, whose descent into erratic behavior is both unsettling and tragic.

The Prognosis:

Never Let Go is a competent but uninspired entry into the survival horror genre. Its strongest elements—Berry’s performance, atmospheric tension, and a striking score—are weighed down by a lack of originality and a conclusion that plays it too safe. While not a misfire, it’s unlikely to leave a lasting impression beyond its on-screen talent.

  • Saul Muerte

Retrospective: Idle Hands (1999) – A Cult Classic with Devilish Charm

20 Friday Dec 2024

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Released in 1999, Idle Hands arrived as a devilishly fun blend of stoner comedy, horror, and absurdity, teetering between grotesque and hilarious. Directed by Rodman Flender and starring Devon Sawa, Jessica Alba, and Seth Green, the film was an unapologetically offbeat addition to the horror-comedy subgenre. Though it stumbled at the box office upon release, Idle Hands has since carved out a well-deserved place as a cult classic.

The story follows Anton Tobias (Sawa), a quintessential slacker whose biggest ambition is mastering couch-potato life. However, his world turns upside down when his right hand becomes possessed by a demonic force, leading to a blood-soaked yet darkly comic rampage. The plot’s absurdity is matched only by its inventive execution, with scenes of gory chaos balanced by laugh-out-loud moments.

A Time Capsule of Late ’90s Culture

Idle Hands is a perfect time capsule of the late ’90s, complete with its slacker ethos, grungy aesthetic, and soundtrack brimming with alt-rock gems from The Offspring and others. The casting of Devon Sawa as the lovable anti-hero and a young Jessica Alba as the girl-next-door love interest cemented the film’s appeal to the MTV generation.

Seth Green and Elden Henson deliver standout performances as Anton’s undead best friends, Mick and Pnub, whose comedic timing and irreverence inject the film with a zany energy. Their undead antics, combined with Sawa’s physical comedy as he battles his own rebellious hand, remain some of the film’s most memorable aspects.

Cult Appeal: A Horror-Comedy with Staying Power

While critics initially panned Idle Hands, its ridicule, gore, and stoner humour resonated with audiences looking for something different. The film’s blend of horror and comedy struck a chord in an era dominated by self-serious teen slashers like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer.

Over the years, Idle Hands has gained a loyal fanbase who appreciate its quirky charm and unapologetic weirdness. The film’s over-the-top kills, grotesque humour, and ironic take on demonic possession have made it a favourite for late-night viewings and Halloween marathons.

A Flawed but Enduring Favourite

Though Idle Hands has its flaws—pacing issues and a somewhat uneven tone—it embraces its campy identity with gusto. The practical effects, including the grotesque antics of Anton’s possessed hand, are a testament to the film’s creativity, even on a modest budget.

For fans of horror-comedy, Idle Hands remains a hidden gem. Its unapologetic impertinence, nostalgic charm, and cult status ensure that it continues to find new audiences who revel in its absurdity. If nothing else, the film serves as a reminder: idle hands really are the devil’s playthings—and they’re a hell of a lot of fun to watch.

  • Saul Muerte

Cuckoo Soars: A Haunting Symphony of Mystery and Masterful Storytelling

20 Friday Dec 2024

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In Cuckoo, director Tilman Singer crafts a hauntingly enigmatic tale that masterfully blurs the boundaries of reality and illusion, delivering one of the most compelling mysteries of recent years. This psychological thriller is a symphony of visual and auditory brilliance, elevated further by Hunter Schafer’s mesmerising performance.

Singer’s direction feels like a deliberate waltz, drawing the audience deeper into a world where every shadow holds a secret and every character carries an unspoken burden. The screenplay unfolds with precision, layering tension and ambiguity that keeps viewers on edge. The story tantalises with just enough breadcrumbs to provoke thought but never enough to reveal its full hand until the climactic crescendo.

At the heart of Cuckoo is Schafer, who delivers a career-defining performance. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure is riveting, and she becomes the emotional anchor in this labyrinthine narrative. Surrounding her are equally strong supporting performances that enhance the film’s enigmatic allure.

The film’s mystery and thriller elements are impeccably balanced. Rather than relying on cheap twists or overt shocks, Cuckoo opts for a slow-burning intensity that crescendos into a finale as satisfying as it is chilling. This is a story that doesn’t just unravel—it spirals, pulling the audience into its increasingly sinister orbit.

Adding to the film’s hypnotic power is the evocative score. The music doesn’t merely accompany the visuals but becomes a character in its own right, guiding the emotional beats and amplifying the pervasive sense of unease. It’s rare for a film’s soundtrack to linger long after the credits roll, but Cuckoo achieves just that.

If there’s a minor critique, it’s that the film’s ambiguity may prove polarising for audiences expecting more concrete resolutions. However, for those willing to immerse themselves in its atmospheric depths, Cuckoo offers a rich tapestry of suspense, beauty, and existential dread.

The Prognosis:

In a genre often defined by predictable tropes, Cuckoo stands out as a bold and hauntingly original vision. Tilman Singer has delivered a cinematic experience that is both visually stunning and narratively engrossing—a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and arthouse cinema alike.

  • Saul Muerte

A Patchwork of Uneven Delights: Revisiting Torture Garden

20 Friday Dec 2024

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1967’s Torture Garden is another anthology effort from Amicus Productions, helmed by director Freddie Francis, who was no stranger to the world of macabre storytelling. With a screenplay by Robert Bloch, celebrated author of Psycho, and a strong ensemble cast that includes Jack Palance, Burgess Meredith, and Peter Cushing, one might expect Torture Garden to be a standout in the horror anthology genre. Instead, it’s an uneven affair that delivers moments of intrigue and terror but ultimately fails to coalesce into something memorable.

The film’s wraparound story features Burgess Meredith as Dr. Diabolo, a sinister showman luring customers into a carnival exhibit that reveals horrifying visions of their possible fates. This setup, while atmospheric, feels oddly rushed, robbing the overarching narrative of the gravity it desperately needs. Meredith’s performance is delightfully theatrical, adding a touch of charm to an otherwise underwhelming framing device.

As with many anthologies, the success of Torture Garden hinges on the strength of its individual segments. Of the four tales presented, The Man Who Collected Poe stands out for its inspired premise and the committed performances of Jack Palance and Peter Cushing. Their shared obsession over Edgar Allan Poe memorabilia creates a gripping dynamic that feels genuinely unsettling. However, the other stories—ranging from a cursed piano to a deadly feline—vary in quality, with some verging on the ludicrous.

Freddie Francis’s direction is steady but uninspired, lacking the visual flair he brought to earlier works like The Evil of Frankenstein or The Skull. The production design, though serviceable, feels constrained by the film’s modest budget, and the cinematography struggles to evoke the same haunting atmosphere found in Francis’s better efforts.

Robert Bloch’s writing, while clever in places, leans too heavily on moralistic twists that can feel predictable or forced. The result is a collection of tales that often amuse or provoke thought but rarely terrify.

Torture Garden remains a curious entry in the horror anthology tradition—a film that entertains in parts but falters as a cohesive whole. For fans of Freddie Francis or Amicus Productions, it’s worth a watch as a time capsule of late-60s horror. However, for those seeking a truly chilling experience, it’s unlikely to leave much of an impression.

  • Saul Muerte

Speak No Evil (2024) – A Tense Revisit Elevated by McAvoy’s Brilliance

19 Thursday Dec 2024

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Remaking a psychological horror as harrowing and intimate as the Danish-Dutch Speak No Evil (2022) was always going to be a high-wire act. In James Watkins’ 2024 iteration, the unsettling tale of a family’s descent into terror is reimagined with an American lens, bolstered by a stellar cast led by James McAvoy. While Watkins’ effort retains much of the original’s unnerving core, it struggles to fully recapture its predecessor’s raw impact, relying heavily on McAvoy’s gripping performance to elevate an otherwise tried approach.

The film follows Louise and Ben Dalton (Mackenzie Davis and Scoot McNairy) and their young daughter Agnes (Alix West Lefler), who accept an invitation to the Devon farmhouse of British couple Paddy (McAvoy) and Ciara (Aisling Franciosi). The initial warmth soon gives way to tension as boundaries are crossed and sinister truths emerge. The claustrophobic narrative peels away layers of civility to reveal the monstrous beneath, a dynamic James McAvoy embodies with disquieting ease.

McAvoy delivers a masterclass in menace, portraying Paddy as both eerily charming and chillingly unhinged. His moments of quiet intimidation are magnetic, grounding the film’s escalating tension. Aisling Franciosi matches his intensity, offering a restrained but compelling turn as Ciara, while Scoot McNairy and Mackenzie Davis bring believable vulnerability to their roles as a family fraying under duress. Alix West Lefler impresses as Agnes, managing to hold her own amid the seasoned cast.

Watkins’ direction is assured, and the English countryside locations—including the atmospheric Saxon’s Lode Manor House—add to the film’s ominous tone. However, where the original thrived on its quiet horrors, this remake occasionally feels over-engineered. The shift from subtle psychological unease to more overt thriller mechanics sacrifices some of the unique dread that made the 2022 film so haunting.

Thematically, the film retains its exploration of societal politeness and how it can be weaponised. Yet, the American remake’s broader strokes sometimes dilute the poignancy of this critique. The expanded climax and increased violence cater to mainstream tastes, but at the cost of the original’s nuanced, suffocating discomfort.

That said, Speak No Evil (2024) isn’t without merit. Its production design, strong performances, and a gripping third act make it a compelling watch. Watkins’ script revisits the core beats of the original story while adapting it for a wider audience, even if it occasionally falters in maintaining the same level of intensity.

For newcomers, this remake offers an effective introduction to the premise, carried by its cast and bolstered by Watkins’ sharp visuals. For fans of the original, it serves as a reminder of how difficult it is to recreate lightning in a bottle.

The Prognosis:

Though it lacks the devastating emotional resonance of its predecessor, Speak No Evil (2024) is a solid, if unremarkable, reinterpretation—kept afloat by McAvoy’s commanding performance and a polished production.

  • Saul Muerte

Ravenous (1999) – A Forgotten Gem with a Voracious Appetite

19 Thursday Dec 2024

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Few films are as unique, unsettling, and criminally overlooked as Antonia Bird’s Ravenous. Released in 1999 to lukewarm box office reception, this macabre tale of survival, morality, and hunger has since gained a well-deserved cult following. With its haunting blend of black comedy, psychological horror, and frontier drama, Ravenous is an underappreciated masterpiece that deserves to be unearthed and devoured anew.

Set in the snow-covered Sierra Nevada during the Mexican-American War, the film follows Captain John Boyd (Guy Pearce), a disgraced officer banished to a remote fort after an act of cowardice. The arrival of a mysterious stranger, Colqhoun (Robert Carlyle), brings tales of cannibalism and survival, drawing Boyd and his garrison into a gruesome battle of wits and wills.

The cast of Ravenous is nothing short of exceptional. Guy Pearce delivers a subdued yet compelling performance as Boyd, capturing the inner torment of a man battling both his past and a growing, dark temptation. Robert Carlyle is electrifying as Colqhoun, oscillating between charm and menace with unnerving ease. The supporting cast, including Jeffrey Jones, David Arquette, and Jeremy Davies, adds depth and eccentricity to the ensemble, grounding the film’s wild tonal shifts.

Antonia Bird’s direction masterfully balances the film’s disparate elements. The unsettling atmosphere of isolation and dread is punctuated by moments of pitch-black humour, creating a viewing experience that is as unpredictable as it is gripping. The gore is sparingly but effectively used, amplifying the tension without overwhelming the narrative.

Special mention must be made of the score by Michael Nyman and Damon Albarn, which is as eclectic as the film itself. The music ranges from eerie strings to jaunty, unsettling melodies, perfectly mirroring the story’s shifts between horror, satire, and tragedy.

At its core, Ravenous is a meditation on survival and the lengths to which desperation—and hunger, both literal and metaphorical—can drive people. The film’s exploration of cannibalism transcends its shock value, delving into themes of power, consumption, and the thin veneer of civilisation.

Despite its rich narrative and strong performances, Ravenous was sadly underappreciated upon release. Perhaps it was too unconventional for mainstream audiences or too darkly comedic for horror purists. Whatever the reason, its failure to find its audience at the time is a loss for the genre.

Viewed today, Ravenous stands out as a forgotten gem, a film that dares to blend horror, humour, and historical drama into a biting critique of human nature. For those who missed it the first time around—or for those ready to revisit its twisted brilliance—it’s a feast worth savouring.

  • Saul Muerte

Heretic: A Thought-Provoking Clash of Faith and Control

18 Wednesday Dec 2024

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In Heretic, theological debate takes centre stage, crafting a dense and dialogue-heavy narrative that explores themes of faith, gender, and control with a sharp eye. This cerebral approach eschews traditional horror or thriller beats for something far more introspective, building an almost claustrophobic sense of intellectual combat. While this bold stylistic choice is likely to alienate some viewers, it succeeds in setting the film apart as an ambitious and thought-provoking piece.  

Hugh Grant delivers a strong performance, skillfully embodying a man both charming and unsettling in his convictions. However, at times, his characteristic mannerisms seep into the portrayal, unintentionally breaking the fourth wall and pulling the viewer out of the moment. It’s a flaw that mars an otherwise compelling performance, yet one that never completely derails the film.  

Sophie Thatcher, in contrast, fully immerses herself in her role, bringing nuance and emotional weight to her character. Her scenes resonate deeply, anchoring the more abstract elements of the narrative with raw, relatable humanity. Meanwhile, Chloe East provides a spirited performance but finds herself hindered by a script that occasionally sacrifices her character’s integrity for plot convenience. Despite this, she still manages to shine in key moments, displaying the kind of talent that could thrive under better material.  

The Prognosis:

While Heretic is far from perfect, its willingness to tackle complex issues through layered dialogue and thematic depth makes it a rewarding watch for those willing to engage with its intricacies. It’s a film that dares to challenge the audience, even if it stumbles along the way.

  • Saul Muerte

Double Blind: Sleep is Deadly, But the Thrills Are Thin

18 Wednesday Dec 2024

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Double Blind offers a surprisingly good time for a film rooted in such a simple premise. The high-concept hook—”fall asleep, you die”—injects immediate tension into its tale of survival, but the execution struggles to maintain that initial promise. Director Ian Hunt-Duffy crafts a claustrophobic atmosphere within the confines of the medical facility, effectively trapping both the characters and the audience in an ever-worsening nightmare.

The ensemble cast, led by Millie Brady as the reluctant leader Claire, does their best to elevate the material. Brady delivers a strong performance, showcasing her ability to carry a film despite an often predictable script. Pollyanna McIntosh and Akshay Kumar lend some gravitas to the proceedings, but their talents are underutilised in roles that rarely rise above stock character archetypes. Abby Fitz and Brenock O’Connor add energy to their respective roles but are similarly boxed in by the film’s limited character development.

As the narrative unfolds, the film leans heavily on paranoia and infighting, a well-trodden path for ensemble survival stories. While some moments of tension hit their mark, the lack of depth in character motivations and relationships keeps the drama from fully resonating. The script’s attempt to introduce twists and moral dilemmas feels undercooked, and the pacing suffers as the story meanders between predictable deaths and a finale that lacks impact.

However, Hunt-Duffy deserves credit for making the most of the low budget. The film’s stark visual style and tight editing emphasise the characters’ mounting exhaustion and fear, creating a palpable sense of unease. Despite its flaws, Double Blind is not without its charms. It’s a modest thriller that entertains in bursts but fails to leave a lasting impression.

For fans of high-stakes survival horror, Double Blind offers a passable experience, but its lack of originality and thin characterisation keep it from standing out in an already crowded genre.

  • Saul Muerte

A Howl of Sophistication: Revisiting Wolf (1994)

16 Monday Dec 2024

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Mike Nichols’ Wolf offers a refreshingly mature and layered take on the werewolf mythos, eschewing the usual gore-laden spectacle for a story steeped in psychological tension, power dynamics, and human frailty. Released in 1994, this film remains a unique entry in the genre, owing much to its stellar cast and Nichols’ seasoned direction.

Jack Nicholson commands the screen as Will Randall, a middle-aged book editor whose life takes a supernatural turn after a wolf bite. Nicholson’s performance brims with subtle menace, capturing Will’s transformation with restraint and depth. It’s a testament to his range that he can imbue the character with both primal ferocity and wry charm, making this a werewolf we root for as much as we fear.

Michelle Pfeiffer is magnetic as Laura Alden, bringing a sharp wit and vulnerability to her role as the love interest caught in the storm of Will’s transformation. Her chemistry with Nicholson elevates the film, adding a touch of sensuality to the story. James Spader delivers a delightfully slimy performance as Stewart Swinton, Will’s duplicitous protégé whose ambition sets him on a collision course with his boss. Christopher Plummer’s turn as the calculating Raymond Alden rounds out the cast, his gravitas lending weight to the corporate intrigue that simmers beneath the surface.

Nichols approaches the age-old tale of lycanthropy with a refined touch, framing the werewolf curse as an allegory for midlife crises and primal urges buried beneath layers of societal decorum. The film’s central themes of power, betrayal, and rediscovery are enhanced by its corporate setting, where the hunt for dominance plays out not in forests but in boardrooms.

The cinematography by Giuseppe Rotunno is striking, particularly the way he uses shadow and light to emphasise Will’s growing connection to the animal within. Ennio Morricone’s score complements the mood perfectly, adding an eerie elegance to the proceedings.

However, Wolf is not without its shortcomings. The pacing falters at times, and the climactic showdown, while entertaining, leans into genre tropes that feel at odds with the film’s otherwise restrained tone. Additionally, the film’s blend of horror and drama doesn’t always coalesce seamlessly, leaving some moments feeling disjointed.

Despite these flaws, Wolf remains a compelling and underappreciated gem. It’s a film that dares to take a sophisticated approach to a well-trodden myth, exploring the beast within with intelligence and style. For fans of Nicholson, Pfeiffer, or anyone seeking a thoughtful twist on werewolf lore, Wolf still has plenty of bite.

  • Saul Muerte