“Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight” (1995)

“Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight” is a 1995 horror film directed by Ernest Dickerson. It is based on the “Tales from the Crypt” TV series and features a blend of supernatural horror and dark humor.


The film stars Billy Zane as the antagonist, The Collector, and William Sadler as the protagonist, Brayker. The story revolves around Brayker, who is on the run with a mystical artifact known as the Demon Knight. This artifact is crucial for stopping the Collector, a demon who seeks to unleash hell on Earth.


The film is set in a remote boarding house where Brayker seeks refuge with a group of people, including Jada Pinkett (then Jada Pinkett Smith) as a waitress named Cordelia. As the Collector arrives and starts attacking the residents, the group must protect the artifact and fend off the demon’s minions.


“Demon Knight” combines elements of horror with the irreverent and gory humor characteristic of the “Tales from the Crypt” series. It was well-received for its entertaining mix of scares and laughs, as well as Billy Zane’s over-the-top performance as the villain. The film is often praised for its practical effects and inventive gore.