The story unfolds in late 1941, centering on a German infantry unit stationed within an unusual fortress nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. The stronghold is described as being “built backwards,” a detail noted by the captain (Jürgen Prochnow). As soldiers begin to die under mysterious circumstances, a stern Nazi commander (Gabriel Byrne) becomes involved, along with a Hebrew professor and his daughter (Ian McKellen & Alberta Watson). A peculiar nomad also finds himself drawn into the unfolding events (Scott Glenn). "The Keep" (1983), adapted from a 1981 novel, is a supernatural thriller set against the backdrop of World War II, representing an early work by director Michael Mann prior to his more celebrated films like “The Last of the Mohicans” (1992). Despite its initial failure at the box office, it has since gained a devoted following. The film’s budget of $11 million ensured high production values, especially considering the era; it shares similarities with later Hammer Productions movies, but on a much grander scale and without the presence of actors like Cushing or Lee. The movie incorporates elements reminiscent of films such as “Altered States” (1980), “The Formula” (1980), “The Seventh Sign” (1988) and “Howling V: The Rebirth” (1989)—if those appeal to you, this might be worth a look (acknowledging that the last two were released several years later). Production proved challenging; Mann’s original cut was an extensive 3.5 hours—more than double the length of the theatrical release (!). This has led some critics to dismiss "The Keep" as a disjointed and bizarre film attempting, unsuccessfully, to be an art film, a horror movie, and a World War II story all at once. The film’s oddness is further enhanced by Tangerine Dream's atmospheric score. Still, there's enough here to entertain those with an open mind; despite noticeable omissions, the narrative remains relatively easy to grasp. A creature appears in the film, and it proves to be the most captivating aspect (later appearances seem inspired by Jack Kirby’s Darkseid). I also found the performances of Prochnow, Byrne, and McKellen engaging. Scott Glenn's character would have benefited from greater development; he was the central figure in the book but his scenes were trimmed. What remains is an enigmatic wanderer with glowing eyes and a magic stick who casually engages in intimacy with a woman he barely knows—though, to be fair, he seems to instinctively recognize her and vice versa. The film’s running time is 1 hour, 36 minutes, and filming took place in Blaenau Ffestiniog & Llanberis in northwestern Wales, along with England at Shepperton Studios, west of London, and Kent (serving as the location for a concentration camp); Spain was used to represent Greece in one scene. GRADE: B-

Source on TMDB