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Night Feeder

Night Feeder (1988)

Oct 31, 1988 1h 34m Horror

Fear chokes the free-wheeling underbelly of San Francisco's punk scene as a killer stalks the night to feed an unspeakable appetite. A writer probes the gruesome murders and the story hits close to home, as the web of death devours neighbors, friends, and lovers.

Directed by Jim Whiteaker

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jim Whiteaker
Producer
  • James Gillerman

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Thematic Analysis

This Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Night Feeder presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.

Director Jim Whiteaker 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 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Night Feeder took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 133 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2496 individual shots.
  • The musical score contains over 76 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1988, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Night Feeder shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Amygdala Warrior, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Night Feeder offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Scent of Death and A Tale of Two Sisters explore similar territory, Night Feeder stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: October 31, 1988
  • Runtime: 1h 34m

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
Eternal Family
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