[FILM] The Prowler (1981)
After Terrifier 3, I decided to delve back into the world of classic slashers from the 1980s. The Prowler was a film that was coming up in a lot of lists when I was doing my research, and given the stunning poster and the fact that special effects work was done by the legendary Tom Savini, I decided to give it a go.
I think the thing that really sells this film is the incredibly grimy atmosphere. The film is full of muted tones and oppressive shadows, and the writing feels like it’s taking itself extremely seriously. The practical effects for the various kills are also quite well done, although coming back to this from this year’s Terrifier 3 and Smile 2 they do feel quite subdued in comparison.
In terms of plot, I really don’t think there was anything particularly interesting here. There’s some attempt to talk about post-war PTSD but it feels more of an excuse to get back into the slashing as opposed to an actual discussion of the topic. I do acknowledge that It’s something that may have hit harder on release, in a time when the US was still dealing with the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Also, the identity of the killer becomes incredibly obvious halfway through, which kind of spoils the murder mystery element of the film.
So overall I think it’s an relatively well-made slasher, but nothing that stands out to me as something that I would want to revisit.