This instalment of Hellraiser follows the bloodline of the creator of the puzzle box, the 'Toy Maker,' and his plan to summon and destroy Pinhead forever.
Despite a theatrical release, Bloodline looks and feels at times like a TV movie, and the acting is occasionally below average, possibly due to the script. That said, Doug Bradley is fine as Pinhead, and Valentina Vargas (In the Name of the Rose) is noteworthy as the demon Angelique. Channelling Meryl Streep, Kim Myers (Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge) is great, but her screen time is sadly limited.
The story's concept is quite good and includes (one assumes) the building in the third installment and the history of the box. It is told in flashbacks by Dr. Paul Merchant in the year 2127 and follows his descendants, Phillip L'Merchant in the 18th century and John Merchant in 1996. Sadly, it's poorly executed and let down by an uneven screenplay, bland direction, and sub-par sets. The effects are a mixed bag; some are well done, while others are less convincing and tame. To its credit, it does have atmosphere, helped by the score.
It appears to have a troubled shooting history, as there were two directors: Kevin Yagher (under an alias Alan Smithee) and Joe Chappelle (uncredited). This may be one cause and result of such an unsatisfying fourth installment.
Overall, the producers didn't give such a bankable character as Pinhead the attention he deserved, leaving the viewer as empty as the 22nd-century space setting. Nevertheless, it has its moments, but won't tear your soul apart.
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