The 1980s were a golden era for horror films, with iconic directors like John Carpenter and Wes Craven creating slasher classics that have stood the test of time. These filmmakers brought a level of creativity and innovation to the genre that led to the creation of cult classics that are still beloved by fans today. While many ’80s horror films are well-known and celebrated, there are also a number of underrated gems from the decade that deserve more recognition for their imaginative storytelling and offbeat humor.
One such underrated film from the ’80s is „Society“ (1989), directed by Brian Yuzna. This satirical black comedy follows a suburban rich kid who begins to suspect that his wealthy family is involved in sinister activities behind closed doors. The film is a twisted blend of Rosemary’s Baby and Invasion of the Body Snatchers, with a healthy dose of Fright Night thrown in for good measure. „Society“ is a visually striking and thematically rich film that rewards repeat viewings with its surreal performances and shocking twists.
Another hidden gem from the ’80s is „Vamp“ (1986), directed by Richard Wenk. This vampire camp classic injects humor into the classic vampire tale, as a group of privileged kids find themselves entangled with dark forces at a New York strip club. The film is most memorable for its casting of supermodel Grace Jones as the lead vampire, bringing her unique style and charisma to the role. „Vamp“ is a deliriously energetic film full of glittery and gory set pieces, off-beat dialogue, and meta-referential jokes that have gained it a cult following over the years.
Wes Craven, known for his iconic Nightmare on Elm Street series, also dabbled in more offbeat horror fare in the ’80s with films like „Deadly Blessing“ (1981). This farm-set thriller follows a couple menaced by a hyper-conservative religious order known as the „Hittites,“ leading to a series of strange and violent encounters. „Deadly Blessing“ is a dizzying mix of slasher conventions, dream sequences, and unexpected twists that showcase Craven’s versatility as a filmmaker.
Frank Henenlotter’s „Brain Damage“ (1988) is another standout from the ’80s, blending horror and comedy in a story about a man tempted by a small, ancient alien into trying a psychedelic substance that leads to a downward spiral of addiction and cannibalism. The film’s unique premise and memorable villain make it a cult classic that is both shocking and darkly humorous.
„Christmas Evil“ (1980) is a holiday-themed horror film that takes a darker and weirder approach to the Christmas slasher subgenre. The film follows a factory toy painter who becomes convinced he is Santa Claus and embarks on a Christmas-themed murder spree to punish the naughty. „Christmas Evil“ is a disconcertingly grave and oddly humorous film that has gained a cult following over the years, praised for its unique take on the holiday horror genre.
Ken Russell’s „The Lair of the White Worm“ (1988) is an underseen gem that blends eroticism, horror, and dark humor in a tale of ancient evil threatening a Highlands town. The film features great performances from its cast, including Peter Capaldi and Hugh Grant, and a musical number that adds to its off-kilter atmosphere. „The Lair of the White Worm“ is a visually striking and thematically rich film that deserves more recognition for its unique take on the horror genre.
Donald Cammell’s „White of the Eye“ (1987) is a bleak portrait of a marriage gone dangerously stale, set against the backdrop of an Arizona exurban town. The film’s deliberate pacing and surgical precision in dissecting a dead-end love make it a haunting and atmospheric experience. With a soundtrack by Nick Mason of Pink Floyd, „White of the Eye“ creates a rich and off-kilter atmosphere that adds to its unsettling tone.
Shinya Tsukamoto’s „Tetsuo: The Iron Man“ (1989) is a scrappy and singular Japanese horror cyberpunk gem that explores themes of transformation and body horror in a dystopian setting. The film’s homemade aesthetic and bursting creativity make it a delicate work of art that has influenced a generation of filmmakers. „Tetsuo: The Iron Man“ is a visually striking and thematically rich film that pushes the boundaries of the horror genre.
„Vampire’s Kiss“ (1989) is a dark comedy starring Nicolas Cage as a literary agent who believes he is turning into a vampire after a mysterious encounter. The film is a showcase for Cage’s over-the-top performance, as he fully inhabits the role of a man descending into madness. „Vampire’s Kiss“ is eerie, bleak, and despondent in tone, setting a unique balance between its character and the film itself.
Finally, „Lady Terminator“ (1988) is an Indonesian fantasy action film that riffs on the Terminator franchise in a mystical and ribald way. The film follows an anthropology student who becomes possessed by an ancient sex goddess in the form of a snake, leading to chaos and mayhem as she seduces men and wreaks havoc. „Lady Terminator“ is a bizarre blend of body horror, sex comedy, and blockbuster action that is a peak example of the bizarro ’80s horror cinema.
In conclusion, the 1980s were a decade of creative and innovative horror filmmaking, with directors pushing the boundaries of the genre and creating cult classics that continue to be celebrated today. While many ’80s horror films are well-known and beloved, there are also a number of underrated gems from the decade that deserve more recognition for their imaginative storytelling, offbeat humor, and lasting impact on the genre. These films showcase the diversity and creativity of ’80s horror cinema, offering unique and memorable viewing experiences for fans of the genre.