The VHS Strikes Back
Tremors (1990)
Listen on
Episode notes
New supporter Gareth has chosen a cult classic comedy horror movie this week with 1990's Tremors.
Tremors was a collaborative effort between director Ron Underwood, producer Gail Katz, and writers S.S. Wilson and Brent Maddock, who crafted a unique blend of science fiction, horror, and comedy. Filming took place primarily in the arid landscapes of the California desert, specifically in the small town of Lone Pine, which provided the perfect backdrop for the film's fictional setting of Perfection, Nevada. The production team faced the challenge of creating realistic, underground monsters known as Graboids, which required innovative practical effects. The creature designs were brought to life by the visual effects team led by Amalgamated Dynamics, who used a combination of animatronics and puppetry to create the menacing and memorable Graboids.
Despite a modest budget, Tremors benefited from a talented cast that included Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, and Reba McEntire, whose performances helped elevate the film's quirky humor and charm. The filmmakers strived to balance suspenseful moments with comedic relief, making the movie appealing to a wide audience. Upon its release, Tremors received positive reviews for its clever writing, engaging characters, and practical effects, which set it apart from typical creature features of the era. Though initially modest in box office success, it garnered a strong cult following over the years, leading to several sequels and solidifying its status as a beloved classic in the genre.
If you enjoy the show we have a Patreon, so become a supporter. www.patreon.com/thevhsstrikesback
Plot Summary:
Residents of the small desert town of Perfection, Nevada, find themselves in a precarious situation when a series of mysterious deaths and strange tremors signal the arrival of giant, underground monsters known as Graboids. As local handymen Val and Earl team up with a motley crew of townsfolk, including a seismologist and a survivalist couple, they must band together to outsmart and survive these deadly creatures determined to eliminate anyone who ventures above ground.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thevhsstrikesback/support