A deadly entity from space crash-lands near a small town and begins consuming everyone in its path. Panic ensues as shady government scientists try to contain the horrific creature.
Grit, Goo, and Gruesome Delights.
For fans of ’80s movies drenched in grime and dripping with gore, The Blob (1988) is a glorious feast of gooey horror that will leave you squirming in your seat. Directed by Chuck Russell, this remake of the 1958 classic takes the original’s premise and ramps up the intensity, delivering a visceral, gritty experience that is not for the faint of heart.
The small town of Arborville becomes the battleground in a relentless fight for survival when a gelatinous extraterrestrial entity crash-lands and starts devouring everything in its path.
The plot revolves around a group of teenagers led by the rebellious Brian Flagg (Kevin Dillon) and the resourceful Meg Penny (Shawnee Smith), who must confront the insatiable Blob before it engulfs their entire community.
What sets this remake apart is its unflinching commitment to blood-soaked practical effects.
The Blob itself is a grotesque marvel, a writhing, pulsating mass of gelatinous terror that oozes with malevolence. The visceral carnage is brought to life with exceptional creature effects and groundbreaking animatronics, giving birth to some of the most memorable and stomach-churning death scenes in ’80s horror.
Russell deftly balances the gruesome spectacle with a dark, atmospheric tone.
The town of Arborville is painted in bleak hues, and the brooding cinematography adds to the pervasive sense of dread. The film revels in its gritty aesthetic, immersing viewers in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.
“I feel like the one-legged man in an ass kicking contest.” –Sheriff Herb Geller
While the characters may not possess the depth of Shakespearean drama, the ensemble cast delivers enjoyable performances. Kevin Dillon injects Brian Flagg with an infectious rebellious charm, while Shawnee Smith brings a tenacious spirit to Meg Penny. The chemistry between them adds an extra layer of engagement to the chaotic narrative.
The Blob is not a film for those seeking nuanced storytelling or profound character arcs. Its strengths lie in its unapologetic embrace of practical effects and unrelenting horror.
The pace is relentless, leaving little room to catch your breath as the Blob devours everything in sight, leaving only terror and gooey residue in its wake.
In the pantheon of ’80s horror, The Blob (1988) stands as a gruesomely delightful entry. Its relentless onslaught of gore and creature carnage, coupled with a gritty visual style, makes it a must-watch for fans of the decade’s horror offerings.
So buckle up, brace yourself, and prepare to be engulfed in a gooey nightmare that will leave you both thrilled and repulsed.
The Blob (1988) Trailer
Main Cast & Crew
Director: Chuck Russell | Writers: Theodore Simonson, Kay Linaker, Irvine H. Millgate
Main Cast: Shawnee Smith, Kevin Dillon, Donovan Leitch Jr.
Where to Watch
YouTube: There are a couple of versions on YouTube.
Streaming: There are many options available from $3.99.