A Quirky Blend of Satire, Mystery, and Sci-Fi

Read Time:4 Minute, 29 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Invasion of the Bee Girls (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Sci-fi, Horror
Year Released: 1973, Kino Cult Blu-ray 2024
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Denis Sanders
Writer(s): Nicholas Meyer
Cast: William Smith, Anitra Ford, Victoria Vetri, Cliff Osmond
Where To Watch: available now, order here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Some movies are memorable not because they dazzle with perfection but because they wholeheartedly revel in their eccentricity. INVASION OF THE BEE GIRLS is a prime example of such audacious filmmaking. With its fusion of science fiction, horror, and unashamed camp, the film captures the 1970s exploitation aesthetic in a simultaneously outrageous and endearing way. Its quirky, low-budget charm is impossible to ignore, even when its narrative occasionally struggles.

In a small Californian town, an unsettling mystery begins to unfold as local men start dying under suspicious circumstances. The deaths, marked by sudden heart failure, prompted federal agent Neil Agar (William Smith) to investigate. With the assistance of Julie Zorn (Victoria Vetri), a lab assistant tied to one of the victims, Agar delves into the case, which soon points toward Dr. Susan Harris (Anitra Ford). Harris, an enigmatic scientist experimenting with bees and genetic manipulation, harbors secrets that unravel the bizarre truth behind the mounting fatalities.

The movie embraces its B-movie roots with unapologetic enthusiasm, delivering a narrative between pulp and satire. At the heart of the story are the Bee Girls, women transformed into deadly hybrids whose seductive allure proves fatal to their male victims. While their existence is steeped in absurdity, they also serve as a pointed commentary on the gender politics of the 70s, symbolizing male fears of women’s liberation and autonomy. This thematic undertone adds an unexpected depth to what might otherwise have been a superficial exploitation flick.

Performance-wise, the cast manages to bring energy and intrigue to their roles, even when the script relies on convenience rather than logic. Smith’s portrayal of Agar lends a rugged, determined quality to the investigation, though his character often appears to stumble upon answers rather than uncovering them through skillful deduction. Vetri’s Julie is a welcome addition, offering warmth and support, but Ford steals the show. Ford captivates as the sultry and enigmatic Dr. Harris with a performance that blends sophistication and menace, perfectly aligning with the film’s campy yet sinister tone.

The transformation sequences, in which women are enveloped in a viscous substance and swarmed by bees, are eerie and memorable, providing the kind of unsettling atmosphere the genre thrives on. However, the Bee Girls fail to live up to their sinister potential. Their transformation is marked by simple visual cues, such as dark sunglasses and vacant stares, leaving much to be desired regarding creative design. This minimalistic approach is a missed opportunity to heighten the bizarre appeal of the concept.

Behind the camera, INVASION OF THE BEE GIRLS benefits from its intriguing origins. Written by Nicholas Meyer, who would later become known for his work on the STAR TREK series, the script demonstrates a flair for blending pulpy thrills with thematic ambition. While the execution isn’t always seamless, Meyer’s influence is evident in the film’s attempts to rise above its exploitation roots. Denis Sanders’s straightforward direction ensures the story remains grounded despite its more outlandish elements.

For those who appreciate cult cinema, INVASION OF THE BEE GIRLS is a time capsule of 70s genre filmmaking. From its pseudo-scientific lab setups to its groovy, era-specific score, the movie authentically captures its decade's aesthetic and vibe. Its imperfections, from uneven pacing to simplistic character development, are part of its charm, endearing it to audiences who relish the quirks and audacity of exploitation films.

INVASION OF THE BEE GIRLS thrives on its contradictions. It is campy without losing its bite, absurd yet oddly reflective. The film doesn’t aim for perfection, but its unabashed embrace of its quirks ensures it stands out in the crowded world of low-budget sci-fi and horror. It leaves a lasting impression, whether viewed as a cult classic, a guilty pleasure, or a fascinating oddity.

Product Extras:
NEW Audio Commentary by Historians Alexandra Heller-Nicholas and Josh Nelson
Theatrical Trailers
Radio Spots

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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