Review of Cannibal Holocaust (1980) by Drago? C — 21 Feb 2010

The movie that "goes all the way". This tag line has been attached to this cult classic for years and it's notorious reputation holds up today. Banned in several countries and often censored, it's a film that sets out to shock. Unfortunately, the most shocking scenes occur at the expense of a turtle, monkey, snake and pig. Real animal abuse was filmed here and would be impossible to film today - it's disturbing. Of course, if you saw the title and still thought, "hey, let's watch this!" than maybe it's no bother...

Honestly, the premise isn't half bad and was said to have spawned The Blair Witch. Because the story is interesting enough and the social commentary (albeit heavy handed - very heavy handed) adds some purpose, it ends up being a bit more that pure shock. As a movie with a good idea and a notorious reputation, check it out if you dare. Three stars for the concept and for it's place in exploitation cinema.