Backdrop preview Jeepers Creepers backdrop
Jeepers Creepers

Jeepers Creepers (2001)

On a desolate country highway, two homeward-bound teens are nearly run off the road by a maniac in a beat-up truck, and later spot him shoving what appears to be a body down a sewer pipe.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Victor Salva

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Victor Salva
Writer
  • Victor Salva
Producer
  • Tom Luse
  • Barry Opper

Reviews

VolcanoAl

I loved this movie.For it's budget & little CGI used.It was a great thriller.I don't consider it as horror.I'm sure many don't agree.I have been hoping for a new movie.

Jul 27, 2013

Gimly
7/10

An under-appreciated horror piece from my formative years, best watched going in with no clue what you are in for.

_Final rating: ★★★½ - I strongly recommend you make the time._

Dec 10, 2017

John Chard
6/10

Indeed, where did you get those eyes?

Siblings Darius and Trish are driving home from college through rural America. They have a brief run in on the road with the driver of a beat up van, later on, on the road side, they observe weird goings-on from the driver of said van, an observation that puts both of them in immense danger.

Jeepers Creepers tips its hat off to the creepy horror movies that were all the rage in the 70s and early 80s, boasting genuine suspense and characters fully formed, Jeepers Creepers is something of a refreshing antidote to the ream of horror movies available that line up teenagers purely to be slasher fodder. Lifting it just above average is the fact that our two sibling protagonists have viable discussions before venturing into the realm of horror staple requirements, although the picture is "B" movie in substance, it does however attempt to be credible in its story telling.

Sadly though, after a wonderfully edgy first half, the picture drops down in standard, the introduction of "The Creeper" may well be a necessity, but it shifts the film to such a degree, it rapidly loses its creepy momentum. Not that the second half of the film is a disaster, far from it, it's got a scary fun vibe to it, it's just that it promises so much, but ultimately runs out of steam. Jeepers Creepers was successful enough to spawn inferior sequels, with the "Creeper" of the piece firmly entering the horror hall of fame, thus an argument for the film having done its job seems totally viable, it's just sad that it didn't stay on the side of edgy and become a horror classic. 6/10

Apr 15, 2019

tmdb15435519
6/10

Just OK. Justin Long is his usual quirky, excellent self. Gina Philips plays the sometimes right, sometimes wrong older sister. Won't be watching the other ones...

Apr 15, 2021

Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

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

Director Victor Salva 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Jeepers Creepers took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $10.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 112 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1175 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 287 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2001, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Dracula, which focuses more on action than character development, Jeepers Creepers subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Paranoid and Kin explore similar territory, Jeepers Creepers stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: July 1, 2001
  • Runtime: 1h 30m
  • Budget: $10,000,000
  • Revenue: $59,217,789

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads

Similar Movies

Dracula
Dracula
1931
7.2
Paranoid
Paranoid
2023
Kin
Kin
2018
6.1
Chicken
Chicken
2023
8.8