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Horripilations Review of Slither (2006)

Movie Review: Slither (2006)

Synopsis:

"Slither," directed by James Gunn, is a horror-comedy that conjures a tale of cosmic horror combined with small-town paranoia. Set in the fictional town of Wheesley, South Carolina, the film opens with a meteorite crashing in the nearby woods, heralding the arrival of something sinister. The meteorite harbours a parasitic organism that infects the local wildlife, leading to grotesque mutations in both animals and humans.

The story primarily revolves around Grant Grant (Michael Rooker), a successful local businessman, who becomes host to one of the alien parasites after it bonds with him via a wound inflicted by the meteorite. As Grant undergoes a horrific transformation, his wife, Starla (Elizabeth Banks), becomes increasingly worried about his erratic behaviour. Meanwhile, the town’s sheriff, Bill Pardy (Nathan Fillion), has his own suspicions as the body count begins to rise, with infected townsfolk becoming grotesque versions of themselves, compelled to spread the infection further.

As the infestation spreads, Bill, Starla, and a ragtag group of townsfolk band together to confront the growing threat. The film cleverly balances horror and humour while providing commentary on themes of obsession, body horror, and the fragile nature of community. The result is an unnerving yet entertaining ride filled with unexpected twists, expert pacing, and a slew of surprises that keep the audience engaged throughout.

Characters and Cast:

  • Michael Rooker as Grant Grant: The ill-fated protagonist, Grant’s transformation from a loving husband to a monstrous entity is at the heart of the film’s narrative.

  • Elizabeth Banks as Starla Grant: Grant’s devoted wife, who fights to save her husband despite the horror that unfolds around her.

  • Nathan Fillion as Sheriff Bill Pardy: The town’s sheriff, who embodies the archetypal hero tasked with uncovering the mystery behind the growing chaos.

  • Jack Conley as Deputy: A supporting character who adds to the comedic relief and tension as the events unfold.

  • Gregg Henry as Mayor: The town’s mayor, who is portrayed as more concerned with his reputation than the safety of his constituents.

  • Tania Raymonde as Kylie Strutemyer: A local teenager who becomes embroiled in the chaos, representing the innocence lost in a town besieged by terror.

  • Don Thompson as Mr. Grant: Grant’s father, who adds depth to the main character and hints at the familial ties that tie the narrative together.

Conclusion:

James Gunn’s "Slither" is a delightful mix of horror and comedy, combining the nostalgic sensibilities of classic creature features with contemporary storytelling techniques. The film adeptly balances its grotesque visual aesthetics, with its bizarre and enthralling creatures, against a backdrop of tender moments and dark humour. The characters, particularly Grant, Starla, and Sheriff Pardy, are well drawn and relatable, making the audience root for their survival against the insidious threat.

The use of practical effects over CGI lends an authenticity to the horror, creating a visceral experience that permeates the narrative. Additionally, the film’s pacing is commendable, with rising tension and escalating stakes leading to an exhilarating climax.

While "Slither" was not a massive box office success upon its release, it has since gained a cult following, thanks largely to its clever writing, bold approach, and memorable performances. It speaks to the capacity of genre films to both entertain and provoke thought about deeper themes.

Ultimately, "Slither" is a celebration of the horror genre and a testament to Gunn’s talent for storytelling. For fans of horror-comedy and creature features, this film is a must-see, offering a thrilling experience that is both terrifying and utterly enjoyable.

Score: 8.5/10

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