The film Puppet Master was released in 1989 and directed by David Schmoeller. It follows the story of Toulon, a puppeteer in Germany during World War II, who discovers an ancient Egyptian potion that can bring his creations to life. Toulon uses the potion to animate a group of puppets that he has crafted into his likeness, as well as other historical figures. The puppets are granted autonomy and become murderous little demons.
Toulon's Nazi oppressors soon discover his secret and pursue him relentlessly. In a moment of desperation, Toulon takes his own life, leaving his creations behind to wreak havoc in the world. Years later, a group of psychics converge on the California hotel where Toulon had lived and worked. They investigate reports of mysterious deaths and strange occurrences, eventually finding themselves face-to-face with the monstrous marionettes.
As the psychics work together to combat the malevolent puppets, they uncover more about Toulon's troubled history, including his relationship with a young woman named Elsa who had been killed by the Nazis. The final showdown between the heroes and the puppets takes place in Toulon's workshop, where the psychics must use their powers to defeat the tiny terrors once and for all.
Puppet Master was a low-budget horror film that became a cult classic and spawned several sequels. Its mix of puppetry, gore, and supernatural elements made it a popular choice among horror fans in the late 80s and early 90s. The film's success also solidified director Schmoeller as a rising talent in the horror genre.