Arachnids Unleashed: a True Survival Tale

Read Time:4 Minute, 42 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Kingdom of the Spiders (Special Edition) (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Horror, Science Fiction, Sci-Fi, Adventure
Year Released: 1977, 2024 Kino Cult Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 37m
Director(s): John 'Bud' Cardos
Writer(s): Richard Robinson, Alan Caillou, Jeffrey M. Sneller, Stephen Lodge
Cast: William Shatner, Woody Strode, Tiffany Bolling, Lieux Dressler, David McLean, Natasha Ryan, Altovise Davis, Joe Ross, Roy Engel, Hoke Howell
Where To Watch: available August 27, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: The calm of Verde Valley, Arizona, is disrupted by a string of mysterious animal deaths in a narrative that screams classic 1970s horror. A horde of tarantulas overtakes a small town, turning it into a battleground of man versus nature, as residents fight tooth and nail to reclaim their homes from these eight-legged invaders.

From the outset, the film builds its suspense, setting a detective-like tone that allows audiences to bond with the central characters amidst the creeping dread. The tension crescendos as the town becomes ground zero for a tarantula siege, transforming the once tranquil setting into a landscape of terror and unrest. This deliberate pacing magnifies the chaos when it finally erupts and deepens the emotional impact, making the climactic scenes particularly resonant.

The film distinguishes itself with its authentic use of live tarantulas, eschewing the creature effects of the day for a more visceral scare that significantly amplifies the film’s horror quotient. This choice enhances the realism and elevates the arachnids to a status of palpable threat, making their on-screen presence more menacing.

While not revolutionary, the film's direction tightens its grip on the genre’s classic elements. The atmospheric build-up is tangible, supported by sweeping landscapes of Arizona that contrast the unfolding dread, enriching the film's theme of natural beauty versus brutal survival.

William Shatner shines as Rack Hansen, the local veterinarian caught in the eye of the storm. His portrayal of a man grappling with the escalating crisis lends a crucial human element to the spider onslaught. Shatner’s performance is nuanced, bridging the gap between personal fear and communal duty, thus adding a rich layer of humanity to the horror narrative.

Tiffany Bolling and Roy Engel's supporting performances, which play vital roles in unraveling and confronting the spider threat, bolster the film’s cast. However, their efforts sometimes recede into the background, overshadowed by Shatner’s commanding presence and the overwhelming spider foes. Bolling’s portrayal of a savvy scientist is particularly noteworthy, injecting a dose of intellect and determination into the storyline.

While the film ramps up tension and delivers memorable horror sequences, its pace occasionally suffers, potentially testing the patience of those anticipating a faster unraveling of events. Certain plot twists and dialogues may also stretch credibility, marring an otherwise engaging viewing experience.

The film’s conclusion is notably somber and open-ended. Instead, it avoids neat resolutions and opts for a more reflective, if unsettling, denouement. This choice ensures the film’s themes and chilling climax linger with the audience well beyond the viewing, sparking further contemplation.

Ultimately, the film is a robust blend of genuine frights, compelling acting, and thoughtful direction, all coming together to craft a cinematic experience that’s as enduring as frightening. It appeals not only to horror genre fans but also to new viewers seeking a film that offers more than mere scares but a profound commentary on the confrontation between humanity and the untamed forces of nature.

About Kino Cult:
While focusing mainly on horror and science fiction, Kino Cult will continue to embrace its trademark brand of "unapologetically weird" with such diverse genres as European erotica, grindhouse classics, and cinematic rediscoveries that defy categorization.

"Some of the most exciting rediscoveries are happening in the realm of cult cinema," said Kino Cult curators Frank Tarzi and Bret Wood, "These strange and twisted movies are so unique that we feel they deserve their imprint within the Kino Lorber family of labels."

Product Extras:
NEW Audio Commentary by Author/Film Historian Lee Gambin
Audio Commentary by Director John "Bud" Cardos, Producer Igo Kantor, Spider Wrangler Jim Brockett, Cinematographer John Morrill, Moderated by Lee Christian and Scott Spiegel
Audio Commentary by Producer Igo Kantor, Actress Tiffany Bolling, Moderated by Marc Edward Heuck
Interview with actress Tiffany Bolling
Interview with Writer Steve Lodge
Radio Spot
Theatrical Trailer
Dual-Layered BD50 Disc
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER, KINO CULT]

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