Sssssss (1973)
This UK horror movie is relatively unknown, and upon watching it, the reasons are clear. It's pretty silly, the effects are mediocre, and the acting fails to impress. The best part of the film is the actual snakes and handling, and not so much as from a horror perspective, but more just... snakes are cool. It's a shame because had the production been a little better, this could have been a decent animal horror picture. It's certainly an original idea.
Dr. Stoner is a herpetologist specializing in snakes. He is looking for a student to assist him in his research. He tells his volunteer, David, that he is working on a vaccine to make humans immune to venom. Unfortunately, David begins to experience unpleasant side effects. Meanwhile, Dr. Stoner's daughter and assistant, Kristina, begins a relationship with David. It becomes increasingly apparent that Dr. Stoner's research is more sinister than he is letting on, and Kristina and several authority members begin to unravel his history and story.
So, I will say that I enjoyed watching this film. It wasn't great by any standards, and it has some campy/laughable moments in it that make it qualify for "so good it's bad" territory. The one thing this film has going for it is its original concept. While the '70s championed movies with half-naked screaming women being chased by some creature or another, it's refreshing to see an intelligent young scientist attempting to save the day, especially when it comes to stopping her father. Plus, I wouldn't classify the film as predictable, as it is so weird, it's hard to tell what's going to happen next.
I think this film is worth checking out if you want a chuckle or just want a palette cleanser. Nothing about it holds up, but I try to give it credit where credit is due. And while it's not fantastic, it is entertaining. Who knows, if you are deathly afraid of snakes, the film might creep you out anyway.
Netflix available: no
Hulu available: no
Xfinity available: Yes
Amazon available: for purchase on DVD
Rating: 2.5/5