Runtime: 89 minutes
Directed by: Joseph Zito
Starring: Vicky Dawson, Christopher Goutman, Cindy Weintraub, Lawrence Tierney, Farley Granger,
From: Sandhurst
According to hearsay, this is proper prep work before viewing the new Eli Roth picture Thanksgiving. At least, that is according to more than one mutual who has already reviewed the movie; they’ve said it’s a blend of this movie and other films which could be spoilers for all I know. Then again, whether or not those individuals were just referring to the opening act structure or something more is a mystery to me… don’t tell me as within the upcoming week you should expect a review of Thanksgiving from me.
As I’ve known of The Prowler for years yet never pulled the trigger, might as well view a film from a director who found success later (Joseph Zito, who directed both one of the most entertaining Chuck Norris movies in Invasion USA but also one of the best Friday the 13th films in The Final Chapter) and had effects work from the GOAT Tom Savini. This was not as good as Invasion USA or Friday the 13th Part 4: The Final Chapter-nor My Bloody Valentine for that matter, which this shares plot beats with-but was still a good time. After all, a killer dressed in military fatigues along with someone having a mental breakdown because they were dumped while serving overseas during World War II does stand out for creativity.
Specifically, a lady named Rosemary did this. Once this unknown beau returns, she and her new man are murdered during the night of a graduation dance; this killed the enthusiasm to have the dance after 1945; it was only brought back in 1980, so of course the killing starts anew. The story does lag at times and nothing about the plot is spectacular; thank heavens then that the Savini effects are still effective & the kills we do get are rather brutal.
Farley Granger appears for a few scenes, which at least is more than the thankless brief role Lawrence Tierney had. The film’s sleepy vibes-to borrow a phrase-won’t be for everyone but manages to be a slasher that actually explores an interesting theme or two. Hopefully Thanksgiving will give me similar thoughts; hopefully Eli Roth’s new film features an amazing 80’s rock band wearing jeans & sport coats like the band here (Nowhere Fast).
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