Review of Planet Terror (2007) by Zach B — 14 Jul 2011

With the zombie sub-genre of films, there is one law that has been formed ever sense the 1960s: Ever Zombie film made pays homage to that of George A. Romero and him reinventing the entire Zombie image.

With Planet Terror, what we get is a blood soaked tribute that is just shocking, yet beyond entertaining to watch. Originally part of the film GRINDHOUSE, Planet Terror was Robert Rodriguez's contribute to the film and his is one that has little brain, heart, or stomach but does had a lot of fun into the mix.

My reaction to seeing this was that this is my type of B-Movie. Everything from the gritty look of the film to the missing reel half way through, this is a film that is just great to watch with friends (or if you want to gross each other out).

Okay, let's get down to the details. Robert Rodriguez, as a director, has always had a soft spot in my heart for his films. Known for making the beloved Mexico Trilogy, Spy Kids series, and Sin City, this film was right up his ally to make.

Now, seeing as how he directs this movie, something tells me that he borrowed a lot of director John Carpenter's horror films while making this movie. Things from certain music cues to the pacing in some areas, it just pays homage to him.

But, if I had to pick the best scene that he directed in this film, it would have to be the opening credits. Just, how he captures the, um, loveliness of Cherry Darling (Rose McGowan) is just wonderful.

But the thing that tops most of it off is that he does not take himself seriously at all and that is what makes this film work. Next is the acting. Most of the acting is over the top with all of the actresses acting like bad ass babes and all of the guys acting like typical tough guys.

They all went out of their way to show how ruthless they can be, and while it is all great, the only one person that needs mentioning is Rose McGowan as Cherry Darling. All I am going to say is that: her playing a character that goes through hell and back that includes, but is not limited to, her leg getting ripped off and a machine gun being it's replacement, McGowan just gives it her all to act like this tough chick.

Next the script. Like I said, this is a film that does not take itself seriously nor does it go and try to be anything else other then a homage to Grindhouse films and in that respect, it works. Just, expect a lot of one dimensional characters and scenes of heavy violence.

Finally the score. Like most of Rodriguez's films, the music has a certain influence of Mexican culture into it. But what makes this film different is that there is that influence of John Carpenter's music that makes each scene a little creepy.

Overall, this is not the best of the GRINDHOUSE films, but for what it is, it is a blast. The only other thing that I think I need to mention is that before this film begins, there is a fake trailer for the film MACHETE that is shown.

All I am going to say is that that trailer is worth the price of this film. Even more in terms of what it lead to.