Eaten Alive (1976)

Eaten Alive, 1976 | Rated: R | Director: Tobe Hooper | Writers: Alvin L. Fast, Mohammed Rustam, Kim Henkel

Where have I been that I've never heard of Tobe Hooper's Eaten Alive before today?!?!? Wandering around aimlessly apparently…

This bizarre, psychedelic, and atmospheric 1970's gem is a shocker from second one until the end.

The story opens with a very disturbing scene involving a prostitute and a terrible customer, then moves directly to the red-lit world of a psychotic hotel owner (with country music playing in the background at all times). There's a dead monkey, a dead dog, and it continues to spiral into the completely unsettling realm usually only found in fever-induced nightmares.

I can't even begin to define the dynamics of a vacationing family who happen to pass through this rural hell. I'm just going to share this picture. Just stare at it for a while. Soak it in.

I've seen some reviews where people complain that this movie is a poor follow-up to The Texas Chainsaw Massacre - that it's not good or just boring. Any true horror fan will quickly realize that these people have absolutely no idea what they are talking about. This is a great horror film. Is it dated, off beat, quirky? Yes to all these things. Still great. Additionally, it's not The Texas Chainsaw Massacre so the two should stop being compared to each other.

There are a few similarities, however. Crazy rural-Texas guy, bizarre bone-chilling sounds, completely unnerving images with no explanation, and unfortunate folks who happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Other than that, watch these two as completely different beasts and you won't go wrong.

For some odd reason I decided to watch this movie in the morning. Like 8:30 AM morning. I'm not sure if that's why I found this film more disturbing than some would argue it is. Starting my day with images of this film in my head was probably not the wisest choice. You might not want to start your day with this one. It would be a great way to end the day, however!

Suggested pairing: gator meat and a liquid that looks questionable - or cheap cans of beer. Be sure to smash the cans on your forehead after downing each one. If you have a red light around then turn it on, sit back, and prepare for insanity. Note: If you do watch this film at 8:30 in the morning, then you might want to watch some cat videos afterwards, or anything that restores your faith in goodness and humanity.

~ Jolie @HorrorHabitBlog