This metaphysical sci-fi is scripted with imagination and directed with just the right dash of black comedy. LAPD detective, Freddie Chavez (Michael Delorenzo) recuperates in the hospital from life-threatening wounds he sustained at the hands of a serial killer, Dr. Helms (Lewis Fitz-Gerald); Helms died during the struggle. As a result of his near-death experience, Chavez becomes privy to the activities of a law enforcement agency from the netherworld. In this baja — lower world — criminals like Dr. Helms try to escape from Hell. Spectral Detective Cal Newman (Clayton Rohner), who patrols the border between life and death, is unprepared for the karmic anomaly represented by Helms; Helms intends not only to exit Hades, but also cross back into life. Chavez initially scoffs at Newman's explanations, but changes his tune when the late Dr. Helms appears and announces his plan to murder Emily (Jacqueline Graham), the one victim Chavez was able to rescue. Straddling natural and supernatural proves difficult for Chavez; he's the only mortal who can see the dead, and his boss expects him to solve other cases. Meanwhile, Newman's spooky superior informs him that Helms will be able to reassume human form and become invincible within two days. Helms takes delight in bedeviling Chavez: he finishes off Emily, and nearly bumps off Chavez's friend, Maureen (Bianca Nacson). Although Helms grows stronger with each soul he kills, Newman goes spook hunting a specialized plasma-blaster and Chavez persuades Helms' daughter, Janet (Mary Elkins), to join his crusade. Can cops from two different dimensions outwit a madman who has learned to twist time and mortality? This fantasy offers intelligent escapism, from its fanciful, film noir-flavored production design to its crisply written detective-tale twists and turns. --Robert Pardi
