Review of Dead End Drive-In (1986) by Alex R — 17 Feb 2013

Dead End Drive-In is a terrific low budget action film from Australia. Right from the first shot, you know that you're in for something special. Director Brian Trenchard-Smith takes the advantage of the Exploitation genre to its fullest, and creates something truly memorable.

Although far from perfect, this is an entertaining film that is sure to appeal to fans of Exploitation cinema. The film has overtones of surrealism and Sci Fi horror, but it isn't a total horror film, it only merely suggests these elements and the movie pays off for the viewer looking for the ultimate in thrills.

The strength of the film lies in its concept and action, and it is not a film that will be seeked out for its acting, as it is often ridiculous. If you're looking for mindless action fun, then this is the film to watch.

Exploitation films are always exciting to watch because they tend to be quite different from big budget films, and most of the time they tend to have more interesting ideas as well. The film has hints of bizarre humor in the dialogue and the film has a certain look to it because it showcases a broken down society and it looks great.

The characters are insane, eccentric and unique and add to the enjoyment of the film. The film is far from perfect, but it definitely is one entertaining ride from start to finish. This is one of the more original films of the 1980's and it is a must see for midnight film fans that enjoy tongue in cheek action films that are over the top in terms of concept.

Dead End Drive-In is one of the better obscured cult hits that deliver some awesome entertainment that you won't soon forget.