Cast
Michelle Michaels
Trish
Robin Stille
Valerie
Michael Villella
Russ Thorn
Debra De Liso
Kim
Andree Honore
Jackie
Gina Smika Hunter
Diane
Jennifer Meyers
Courtney
Joseph Alan Johnson
Neil
David Millbern
Jeff
Jim Boyce
John Minor
Pamela Roylance
Coach Jana
Brinke Stevens
Linda
Rigg Kennedy
David Contant
Jean Vargas
Telephone Repairwoman
Anna Patton
Mrs. Devereaux
Crew
Director
- Amy Holden Jones
Writer
- Rita Mae Brown
- Amy Holden Jones
Producer
- Amy Holden Jones
Reviews
Wuchak
Routine early 80’s slasher in the Los Angeles burbs
The original script was written as a parody, but that was changed when production began and it was shot as a serious slasher. Perhaps this explains why I busted out laughing on at least four occasions. The amusing pizza-eating scene and the refrigerator sequence are good examples. Despite this, “The Slumber Party Massacre” (1981) IS a serious slasher flick featuring the ‘driller killer’ and it’s pretty well-done. The problem is, there’s an unimaginative bluntness to the proceedings and the final act isn’t all that compelling (I found my mind wandering a couple of times).
The female cast is decent, but not quite as good as in the Friday the 13th movies. Diane (Gina Smika Hunter, aka Gina Mari) is arguably the best, followed by the black chick.
The movie is short & sweet at 77 minutes and was shot entirely in Los Angeles with the neighborhood sequences filmed in Venice.
GRADE: C
Aug 13, 2018
GenerationofSwine
Which one was this? I can't really remember. I do, however, know it was the movie where they hire a lot of women and require them all to take their clothes off.
The difference is, this one was written by a feminist for reasons probably only she can explain.
I recall a shower scene in there somewhere.
And then I remember the women running around screaming in undies that are really only worn in the bedroom.
Was there a plot? Not really, it was just an excuse for nudity and undies.
But, you already knew all of that when you sat down to watch this. Because, honestly in film making, they aren't really trying to pass it off as anything other than an excuse to film young naked breasts and you don't really get anything but that.
So, why are you reading this? You know exactly what this movie is about. You knew that before you even clicked on this review.
But, at least the review is as honest as the movie.
If you are expecting more than that, there is something seriously wrong with you.
Jan 14, 2023
JPV852
Nothing real stand out about another slasher born out of the success of Halloween (and Friday the 13th, which was made for the same reason), but still watchable enough. **2.75/5**
Jul 1, 2024
griggs79
The Slumber Party Massacre is the feminist slasher that laid the groundwork for everything Scream would later get praised for. Written by feminist author Rita Mae Brown, it takes the typical slasher formula—a half-naked woman, a deranged killer with a power drill—and flips it on its head. The phallic drill and gratuitous nudity are there, but in such an exaggerated manner that it becomes a brilliant satire on the male gaze. This isn't your average damsel-in-distress flick; it's a bloody middle finger to the male-dominated horror machine, with women banding together to fight back. The film's influence on later works is a testament to its enduring legacy and the knowledge it imparts to film enthusiasts.
Oct 15, 2024
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Comedy film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Slumber Party Massacre presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Amy Holden Jones brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1982, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Slumber Party Massacre took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.2 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2337 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Slumber Party Massacre shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Eat Me!, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Slumber Party Massacre offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Wedding Slashers and Dance of the Damned explore similar territory, The Slumber Party Massacre stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 10, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 17m
- Budget: $220,000
- Revenue: $3,600,000
Where to Watch
