
The Forbidden 1978
Delve into the eerie origins of Clive Barker's cinematic journey with *The Forbidden (1978)*, an early experimental horror short film steeped in Faustian lore.
Director: Clive Barker
Cast



Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Forbidden* (1978) about?
*The Forbidden* follows a protagonist who makes a perilous pact with unseen forces, echoing the classic Faustian legend. Barker's experimental short film twists ambition into horror, exploring the cost of desire and the inescapable grip of fate. The 36-minute runtime packs a punch with moody visuals and a chilling premise.
Who directed *The Forbidden*?
The film was directed by Clive Barker, who also stars in the short alongside his creative collaborators.
Who stars in *The Forbidden*?
The cast includes Peter Atkins, Clive Barker, Doug Bradley, Phil Rimmer, and Lyn Darnell, with Julia Blake rounding out the ensemble.
Is *The Forbidden* (1978) worth watching?
While *The Forbidden* is a raw, experimental short, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Clive Barker's early horror sensibilities. Its Faustian themes and atmospheric tension make it a compelling watch for fans of classic horror, even if it's not a polished feature film. If you're curious about Barker's formative work, this 36-minute film is worth exploring.
How long is *The Forbidden*?
The runtime of *The Forbidden* (1978) is 36 minutes.
About The Forbidden (1978) — Clive Barker's early horror experiment steeped in Faustian dread
Delve into the eerie origins of Clive Barker's cinematic journey with *The Forbidden (1978)*, an early experimental horror short film steeped in Faustian lore. This 36-minute avant-garde creation sets a moody, atmospheric stage where a man's desperate bargain with darker forces unfolds in shadows and tension. Barker, known for his later horror masterpieces, crafts a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll, blending themes of ambition, fate, and the price of desire. With an experimental style that hints at his signature dark creativity, this short film is a must-watch for fans of classic horror's twisted roots.
*The Forbidden (1978)* showcases Barker's early narrative instincts, wrapping themes of temptation and consequence in a compact yet potent package. The film's raw, atmospheric energy and Barker's own involvement both behind and in front of the camera make it a fascinating glimpse into the horror maestro's formative years. Despite its brevity, the short film's unsettling tone and Faustian premise leave a lasting impression, offering a tantalizing preview of the horror visions Barker would later expand into iconic full-length features.