“Attack of the Killer Tomatoes” is a cult classic horror-comedy film released in 1978, directed by John DeBello. The movie hilariously parodies the sci-fi and horror genres while taking a playful jab at the B-movie culture of the time.
The story unfolds in a world where tomatoes have inexplicably become sentient and are on a murderous rampage, terrorizing the unsuspecting citizens of a small town. As the tomatoes roll, bounce, and fly their way through the town, chaos ensues. The government, fearing a full-blown vegetable (or is it a fruit?) apocalypse, assembles a team of unlikely heroes to combat the killer tomatoes.
Leading the charge is the inept and somewhat clueless Mason Dixon, played by David Miller, who is tasked with coordinating the defense against the marauding produce. Dixon is joined by a team of quirky characters, including a parachute-wearing scientist, a master of disguise, and a beautiful undercover operative. Together, they embark on a zany mission to stop the tomato onslaught and save humanity.
As the plot thickens, the characters uncover a diabolical plot involving the creation of a giant tomato, which poses an even greater threat to mankind. The team must outsmart the tomatoes and their creators, navigating through a series of comedic misadventures to prevent a ketchup-filled catastrophe.
Review:
“Attack of the Killer Tomatoes” is a cinematic oddity that revels in its absurdity. From the outset, the film makes it clear that it doesn’t take itself seriously, and it invites the audience to join in on the laughter. The low-budget special effects, including the use of obvious miniature tomatoes and stop-motion animation, add to the film’s charm and intentionally campy nature.
The humor is a mix of slapstick, puns, and clever satire, poking fun at the conventions of both horror and government conspiracy genres. The film’s title alone sets the tone for the absurdity that follows, and it delivers on its promise of being a uniquely entertaining experience.
The characters, while intentionally exaggerated and stereotypical, add to the film’s comedic value. Mason Dixon’s deadpan delivery and the team’s unconventional methods contribute to the overall lighthearted atmosphere. The film’s theme song, “Attack of the Killer Tomatoes,” is catchy and sets the mood for the quirky adventure.
While “Attack of the Killer Tomatoes” may not be everyone’s cup of tea, its cult following has grown over the years, making it a beloved classic among fans of unconventional cinema. The film’s self-awareness and willingness to embrace the absurd make it a standout in the realm of cult films.
“Attack of the Killer Tomatoes” is a cinematic gem that transcends traditional genre boundaries. It’s a movie that doesn’t take itself seriously and invites viewers to join in on the fun. If you’re in the mood for a laugh-out-loud, B-movie experience with a tomato twist, this cult classic is worth a watch. Just be prepared for a tomato-filled adventure that is as bizarre as it is entertaining.
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