While there was great potential here for a very intriguing thriller and horror story, it fell apart with some really poor writing, editing and directing choices - and just purely unbelievable, at times, particularly in nearly all of the story-driving relationships. Now, while horror films do ask us to suspend our disbelief, oftentimes to great extremes, this one expects us to shatter our belief systems entirely in order to accept the progression of things that happen. What did I love about this film? The 'evil' spirit! Some great artistry and film technique used here in presenting it. Kudos. Second, the background of the roots of tattooing (tatauing). Would very much liked to have seen a little more, but from what the film presents about the very spiritual aspect of this art, it is understandable. Then, Jason Behr did his best to pull of a believable title character. Sadly more than a couple of the other actors fail at this. Poor casting, poor acting or just poor directing??? You decide if you watch it.

The tattooist is a very good thriller film, jam packed with action and suspense. However the disappointing amount of horror involved was a let down. This is classified as horror when yes the theme is revolved around a ghost. However i was not scared at one point during the film.Admittedly it takes a lot to make me scared but no jumps,shocks or gasps were even lifted. The overall is that yes this film is good and if you like the Gothic genre then give it a try but if your looking for massive scares then this is a no. Good suspense and action compliments on the artwork, but this is not a horror film.

This was an interesting movie. An American tattoo artist finds himself a bit too intrigued by the Somoan art of tattooing, and along the way finds himself, and his tattooed customers, the grim focus of a spiteful spirit, all stemming from his ill-advised "borrowing" of a tainted Samoan tattoo tool. I highly enjoyed this movie, but must caveat that I'm completely enthralled by all things Polynesia, so I am probably very forgiving of any negative elements of the movie. Polynesia notwithstanding, the story was creative, and certainly a break from normal American horror fare. Good (enough) acting, strong production values and interesting scenery make this a highly recommended film.

"The Tattooist" tells the story of an American tattoo artist Jake Sawyer,who is a global wanderer who explores ethnic themes in his designs.While he is in New Zealand he unknowingly plays a role in releasing a deadly spirit with a penchant for delivering death by indelible ink as he attempts to learn tatau,the Samoan tradition of tattooing.Tatau is a traditional tattoo worn by males,on the middle of their torsos,starting just below the lat area and continues down to the knees."The Tattooist" has some impressive moments of horror among many boring spots,where literally nothing happens.The film's subject is unusual as is the cultural context and the death scenes are suitably graphic.Unfortunately the character of Jake is barely developed and the first half of the film is pretty dull.6 out of 10.