Note: This is Dakota Thomas’ first review as an official SquidFlicks author. You may have read about his other productions, and many a moon ago, his debut as a SquidFlicks contributor. He likes to help out when he’s not working on a big production! =)
Intro:
During the prime time of 80s horror films this little gem was released. This is the child of horror masters George A. Romero and Stephen King. An anthology film with five terrifying tales of the macabre. With an all star cast this film went on to gross nearly twenty million dollars.
Dialogue:
Written by the ever talented Stephen King (Carrie and Cujo) the dialogue in this movie I found not to even the main focus. Many movies are revolved around what the characters are saying. This could have been a mute movie and I would have still been interested. Never the less I will tip my hat to the talent that is Stephen King. The man is a God when it comes to the horror genera. He usually can never go wrong. His characters always have this ironic sarcasm to them. That carries over into this film.
Acting:
Where do I begin? When I say all star cast I mean it. Again, this was the 1980s and to have names like Hal Holbrook, Adrienne Barbeau, and Leslie Nielsen in one movie was the perfect antidote. These people could have kept their mouth shut through the entire movie. Their acting abilities were really put to the test. It was all about facial expressions and the way they carried themselves. I really didn’t see a lack in effort from anyone. Leslie Nielsen really surprised me in this movie. He played a bad guy. I’ve always seen him as the hero. I’ve seen him as a supporting character. This was a nice change. Even in the 80s he had white hair. My advice would be get some hair dye. He never changes. Ed Harris (Needful Things), Ted Danson (Cheers), and Stephen King also take fun little roles in the movie.
Plot:
It’s a simple idea. Taking five short stories and intertwining them together with a breif wrap around scene. The stories involve a son getting back at his dad with a voodoo doll, a vengeful father from the grave, an out of control growing plants from outer space, a monster in a crate, zombie lovers, and creepy calling bugs. In this department I felt the movie ran a little long. Most people would argue with me that this movie is perfect the way it is, and good for you. That’s nice that you think that but I’m not feeling it. Take out a story or two. I really don’t think horror movies should run over 90 minutes. This one was over two hours long. We can only take so much crazy backgrounds and screaming. Don’t get me wrong I adore this movie, but I have to fast forward through it sometimes.
Music:
John Harrison (Tales from the Darkside: The Movie) added the final touches to the film. The Creepshow score is what really keeps the movie going. The opening and closing themes are absolutely delightful. Throughout the entire movie the music seems somewhat light-hearted, but there is just enough tension within the instruments it keeps you wanting more. It’s hard to look away when you hear little kids humming.
Overall:
All though I’d recommend the sequel to others this is a Hallmark horror movie. It is a film any crazed genera fan must see. Get out there and go watch this movie. Go on! Get some popcorn and sit down for a couple hours. We all need a break.
Director: George A. Romero
Writer: Stephen King
Release Date: November 12th, 1982
4/5 Reels
Squid Rating
(Sometimes the DVD can be hard to find)
Trailer:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjH7qB8P8O8
Purchase:
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