Slither (2006)

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 HALLOWEEN REVIEWS 2022


Writer/Director: James Gunn

Stars: Nathan Fillion, Elizabeth Banks, Michael Rooker, Tania Saulnier, Gregg Henry, Don Thompson, Brenda James



A meteorite releases a disgusting alien parasite among the populace of a small town, turning the townsfolk into ravenous zombies.

 


Writer/director James Gunn largely succeeded in his goal of producing a horror comedy that pays homage to the many films that could share the above summary.

 


He understands that there is a lot of humor to be gleaned from the reactions of everyday folk to extraordinary events.

 


When things are happening on screen, this film is quite entertaining.

 


However, there is too much of a slow build-up as we watch the gradual transformation of patient zero (Michael Rooker).

 


We already know where this is leading, so I found myself impatient to get there.

 


In addition, I was often put off by the disgusting parts. 



I can appreciate gore as much as the next horror movie fan, but I don't share Gunn's aesthetic (if that isn't too grand a way of putting it). 



Bloated, veiny characters wallowing in the guts of dead pets and lots of morbidly obese fat suits doesn't make for a good time at the movies for me. 



The writing and performances were strong enough that I often enjoyed the film anyway.














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