With The Johnsons (1992) Van den Berg took on another genre, horror. Up to this day The Johnsons is a cultfilm in the American horror scene. Starring Dutch Monique van de Ven and Esmée de la Bretonière this film is a supernatural mystery about the legend of Xangadix, an Indian god. According to the legend, Xangadix would beget seven males, The Johnsons, who will impregnate their own sister (De la Bretonière) in a deadly ritual. It is prophesized that she will then give birth to the monster who will destroy mankind. And... action!
Rudolf van den Berg's notes: I had big doubts about taking on this film. I didn't want to feel like a sell-out. But two things convinced me to direct the movie: at the time my second daughter was born and I wanted to take good care of my family. Secondly, I wanted to prove to myself that I could direct any film, including horror. Horror experts tell me that The Johnsons has become a sort of cult film in the US and elsewhere and is still appreciated today. Nice experience, taught me a lot, but once is enough.