Written by Iseabal Withrow
Published: 03 Oct 2023
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of the cult classic horror film, Re-Animator. Directed by Stuart Gordon and released in 1985, Re-Animator has become a beloved staple in the genre, known for its blend of gruesome horror and dark humor. Adapted from H.P. Lovecraft’s short story, “Herbert West – Reanimator,” this gory tale follows the intense and unconventional experiments of a medical student named Herbert West, who discovers a serum capable of reanimating the dead.
In this article, we’ll uncover 43 fascinating facts about Re-Animator that will not only intrigue die-hard fans but also pique the interest of those new to the film. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to interesting trivia, we’ll explore the making of this iconic movie, its impact on the horror genre, and the lasting legacy it has left behind.
Key Takeaways:
- “Re-Animator” is a cult classic horror film released in 1985, known for its blend of horror, comedy, and gore, and has a dedicated fanbase.
- The movie’s practical effects, dark humor, and unique blend of horror and comedy have solidified its place as a cult classic in the horror genre.
The movie Re-Animator was released in 1985.
Re-Animator is a cult classic horror film directed by Stuart Gordon.
The film is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s short story.
The movie is loosely based on the H.P. Lovecraft’s short story titled “Herbert West–Reanimator”.
Jeffrey Combs plays the lead role of Herbert West.
Jeffrey Combs delivers a memorable performance as a brilliant but unhinged medical student.
The film was originally intended to be a serialized television show.
However, it was later decided to adapt it into a feature-length film.
Re-Animator was a low-budget production.
Despite its limited budget, the film achieved cult status due to its unique blend of horror and comedy.
The movie was shot in only 18 days.
The tight shooting schedule added to the intensity and energy of the film.
Re-Animator was initially banned in several countries.
The film’s graphic and gory scenes resulted in it being banned in countries like Germany and Australia.
The movie’s score was composed by Richard Band.
Richard Band’s haunting and atmospheric score perfectly complements the film’s unsettling visuals.
The film spawned two sequels.
Re-Animator was followed by two sequels: Bride of Re-Animator in 1990 and Beyond Re-Animator in 2003.
The movie has a dedicated cult following.
Re-Animator has garnered a loyal fanbase who appreciate its unique blend of horror, comedy, and gore.
The film’s special effects were created by John Naulin.
John Naulin’s practical effects work brought the horrifying reanimated corpses to life.
Re-Animator was praised for its dark humor.
The movie skillfully balances the gruesome and comedic elements, creating a darkly humorous experience.
The film was not a box office success initially.
Although Re-Animator gained popularity over time, it did not achieve significant financial success upon its release.
Director Stuart Gordon initially wanted Christopher Lee for the role of Dr. Carl Hill.
However, David Gale ultimately portrayed the role and delivered a memorable performance.
The movie’s tagline is “Herbert West Has A Very Good Head On His Shoulders… And Another One In A Dish On His Desk.”
The tagline perfectly captures the film’s blend of horror and dark humor.
Re-Animator has been praised for its practical effects.
The film’s practical effects have been acclaimed for their realism and creativity.
The movie was screened at the Cannes Film Festival.
Re-Animator received international recognition when it was screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 1985.
The film’s runtime is 86 minutes.
Despite its relatively short length, Re-Animator manages to pack in a lot of memorable moments.
The movie was released with an R-rating.
Due to its graphic violence and nudity, Re-Animator received an R-rating from the Motion Picture Association of America.
The film explores themes of life, death, and the pursuit of scientific knowledge.
Re-Animator delves into the moral and ethical implications of pushing the boundaries of science.
The movie was met with mixed reviews upon its release.
While some critics praised its dark humor and inventive approach, others found it too gruesome.
Re-Animator was nominated for several awards.
The film garnered nominations for Best Director and Best Screenplay at the Saturn Awards.
The movie’s success led to the creation of a Re-Animator comic book series.
The comic book series continued the adventures of Herbert West in a serialized format.
Re-Animator has inspired numerous homages and references in other films and TV shows.
Its influence can be seen in works such as Shaun of the Dead and American Horror Story.
The movie’s soundtrack was released on vinyl and CD.
Fans of the film can enjoy the atmospheric score on various formats.
Re-Animator was filmed in Los Angeles, California.
The movie utilized various locations in Los Angeles to bring its story to life.
The film’s poster features Herbert West holding a glowing syringe.
The iconic poster has become synonymous with the movie.
Re-Animator is known for its inventive and shocking death scenes.
The film’s creative and memorable death scenes have become legendary among horror fans.
The movie’s screenplay was written by Dennis Paoli, William Norris, and Stuart Gordon.
The writing team crafted a script that perfectly balanced the horror and comedic elements of the story.
Re-Animator was named the Best Film at the 1985 Fantafestival.
The film’s unique blend of horror and comedy earned it the prestigious award.
Herbert West’s serum in the film is called “Reagent.”
The Reagent becomes the catalyst for the chaotic events that unfold in the movie.
The movie’s production design creates a gritty and atmospheric setting.
The attention to detail in the film’s production design adds to its immersive experience.
Re-Animator is considered a landmark film in the horror genre.
The movie’s blend of horror, comedy, and gore has made it a cult classic among horror enthusiasts.
The film’s success led to a musical adaptation.
A musical version of Re-Animator premiered in Los Angeles in 2011.
The movie explores the consequences of playing god.
Herbert West’s reckless pursuit of reanimating the dead leads to disastrous outcomes.
Re-Animator has a unique balance of suspense and humor.
The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while also delivering darkly comedic moments.
The movie’s original title was “Herbert West–Reanimator.”
The title was later shortened to simply “Re-Animator.”
The film’s gory scenes were achieved using practical effects.
Gordon opted for practical effects over CGI to create a more visceral and realistic experience.
The movie’s ending leaves room for interpretation.
The ending of the film is both shocking and thought-provoking, leaving audiences with lingering questions.
Re-Animator has been honored with a 2K restoration.
The restoration breathed new life into the film, preserving its legacy for future generations.
The movie’s success led to a franchise.
Re-Animator spawned a franchise that includes the original film, two sequels, and a comic book series.
The film’s dark humor provides a satirical critique of the medical profession.
Re-Animator cleverly satirizes the often ethically dubious practices of the medical field.
The movie’s cult status continues to grow.
Over the years, Re-Animator has gained a larger following, cementing its place as a cult classic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Re-Animator is a cult classic that has captivated audiences with its unique blend of horror and dark comedy. With its memorable characters, gruesome special effects, and twisted storyline, it continues to be a favorite among horror enthusiasts. The film’s legacy is evident in its influence on subsequent horror movies and its enduring popularity among fans.Re-Animator is a must-watch for any horror movie fanatic, as it expertly balances scares with humor, leaving viewers both terrified and entertained. Its clever and provocative take on the mad scientist genre sets it apart from other films of its kind, making it a standout in the realm of horror cinema.With its iconic scenes and unforgettable performances, Re-Animator has cemented its place in film history as a true cult classic. It’s a movie that has stood the test of time and continues to amaze and terrify audiences decades after its initial release. So, if you’re a fan of horror movies or just looking for something that will give you chills and laughs in equal measure, give Re-Animator a watch – you won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
Q: When was Re-Animator released?
A: Re-Animator was released on October 18, 1985.
Q: Is Re-Animator based on a book?
A: Yes, Re-Animator is loosely based on the H.P. Lovecraft story “Herbert West—Reanimator.”
Q: Who directed Re-Animator?
A: The movie was directed by Stuart Gordon.
Q: Is Re-Animator a horror film or a comedy?
A: Re-Animator is a unique blend of horror and dark comedy, combining scares with humor.
Q: What is the running time of Re-Animator?
A: The movie has a running time of approximately 86 minutes.
Q: Is Re-Animator suitable for all audiences?
A: Re-Animator is rated R for its graphic violence, gore, and nudity. It is not suitable for young audiences.
Q: Does Re-Animator have any sequels?
A: Yes, Re-Animator spawned two sequels: Bride of Re-Animator (1990) and Beyond Re-Animator (2003).
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