JULIA X is a very strange film indeed and that it works at all is down to the talents of writer/director P.J. Pettiette, who brings a ton of high energy slapstick to his production. This twisty-turny thriller turns out to be a black comedy of epic proportions, with virtually no story to drag down the pacing. It's simply a battle of wits between a serial killer and his supposed victims.

The film benefits immensely from the presence of former HERCULES star Kevin Sorbo playing the killer. Sorbo is a likable, lovable screen presence and that continues to be the case here; you just can't take him seriously as the villain as his persona is exactly the same. The story sees him taking a woman captive with the intent to kill her, but the tables are turned early on.

What follows is a gruelling journey of violence as incredible amounts of pain and torture are inflicted on each of the leading characters in turn. The special effects are effective, yes, but the film's light-hearted feel means that this never ventures into real torture porn territory; the intention is to entertain, not to disgust, so it's surprisingly enjoyable. I usually hate this genre so it's saying something that I enjoyed this one.