Attack Of The Killer Tomatoes (1978) (film review).
How can I put this? Elvira is still rubbing off on me. In her first film, she used ‘Attack Of The Killer Tomatoes’ as an example of a schlocky horror film in the late-night cinema viewing, and I haven’t seen it. So…I have no idea if this is the original or director’s cut.
I don’t think the cast or writers took the threat seriously enough, as we only saw one small tomato in the opening 10 seconds and the first giant one 92 minutes in. It’s difficult to decide whether they are homicidal or suicidal, considering they explode in their actions in their war with the humans. All tomato types likely exhibit a combination of both traits. Much of the time these tomatoes are the same size as the ones you buy in the grocers. You’ll learn from this film where not to throw them.
The threat is all over the USA, and we see this from a variety of viewpoints. A committee, literally in the smallest room, gets agent Mason Dixon (actor David Miller) to lead a team to investigate. That doesn’t go well. The sole journalist, Lois Fairchild (actress Sharon Taylor), ends up following what they are doing. There are so many events, and even a couple of songs are chucked into the mix. Considering ‘Attack Of The Killer Tomatoes’ was made on a small budget, most of it is on the screen, even in an insurance hassle after a helicopter really does crash, wiping out a lot of their budget. The pilot survived, by the way. The fear is so intense that the mere mention of tomatoes can send people running screaming. After weeks of inaction, a Senate committee finally decided against taking any action.
Did I mention this is a satire? There is a significant amount of visual humour, so it’s important to focus on the screen. The dialogue isn’t terrible either. Think in terms of the Zucker Brothers from the same time period with a lower budget, and you won’t be far off. It’s also extremely funny. If you want cheering up, then it’s worth looking for a copy.
GF Willmetts
December 2024
(public domain. 1 dvd 83 minute film)
cast: David Miller, Sharon Taylor and many unknowns
