When I first saw the trailer for Slither, I thought it looked like an updated version of the classic 1986 sci-fi/horror/comedy film, Night of the Creeps. That movie also featured evil slug-like creatures that turn the citizens of a small town into zombies. However, Slither is not a remake. It might be similar to Night of the Creeps in the slug department, but it’s a much more entertaining and very different movie.
In Wheelsy, South Carolina, it’s time for the annual “Deer Cheer” celebration. This kick-off to deer season is one of those “only in the movies” events that everyone in town gets all excited about. Starla (Elizabeth Banks) was supposed to meet her much-older husband Grant Grant (Michael Rooker) at the party, but he hasn’t shown up. He’s been side-tracked by his discovery of a small meteorite in the woods outside of town.
The meteorite has brought a parasite that has burrowed into Grant’s brain. Suddenly, he’s developed a taste for the local pet population. The infection that’s resulted from his contact with the parasite is making it harder to keep things under wraps and, finally, he attacks Starla. Bill (Nathan Fillion), the local police chief, chases him into the woods where he escapes. Bill goes back to town and rounds up a posse to go after him. The confrontation in the woods — the details of which I’ll leave out — results in a large number of meat-eating slugs that attack the residents of Wheelsy.
What I really enjoyed about Slither is that it was very much in the mold of 1980s sci-fi/horror films but with a modern comedy twist, ala Shaun of the Dead. It never devolved into the sarcastic-type of humor that pervades so many modern horror movies.
James Gunn, who wrote 2004’s remake of Dawn of the Dead, directed Slither and also wrote the screenplay. Coming from a background that includes time in the Troma studio camp, it’s clear that he has a love for the horror genre.
If you like your horror on the slightly humorous side and also enjoy a healthy helping of gore, Slither will definitely appeal to you.
3.5 out of 5.0 stars
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