Jason versus The Prowler

Joseph Zito's The Prowler is one of those cult film's of the early 1980s that has garnered a reputation as must-see cinema for horror aficionados. It's got a reputation as a violent, gory entry in the slasher genre, with primo effects by the one and only Tom Savini. Was it worth coming down off the mountain for? Stick with me!

A masked killer, wearing World War II U.S. Army fatigues, stalks a small New Jersey town bent on reliving a 35-year-old double murder by focusing on a group of college kids holding an annual Spring Dance.

Let's cut to the chase -- this is good shit. Sure, it's derivative of other slasher movies. But, looking back, it was one of the first of its kind. Calling The Prowler derivative is like calling John Carpenter's Halloween derivative -- stupid! This flick helped set the bar in terms of formula and graphic kills. I respect it for that.

About those kills; they're pretty damn realistic. Effects genius Tom Savini makes the murders brutal, bloody and believable. And he mixes T&A with the violence. Granted, I'm not sure if I was supposed to be aroused or repulsed. But at least I felt something. Nicely done, Tom.

Director Joseph Zito gives us a slick looking flick. The film-school nerd in me appreciated the technical expertise while the horror freak dug the stalks, kills and boobs. The Prowler impressed and entertained. I'd buy that for a dollar.

A Good. For shizzle.

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