Basket Case (1982)

4.5 / 5
Tagline: The tenant in room 7 is very small, very twisted and very mad.
Directed by: Frank Hennenlotter
Written By: Frank Henenlotter
Actors include: Kevin Van Hentenryck, Terri Susan Smith, Beverly Bonner
Genre: horror, comedy
Length: 91 minutes
Banned: Norway
Country: USA

Review:
What's in the basket...is it easter eggs? What's in the basket...is it clothes? If you want to know you'll have to watch the movie. I will tell you that this is a cute little comedy with moments of erm "horror" that are far from scary or bloody, the allure here is the charming story and the actors involved. Also the fact that Henenlotter was at the helm (and it's actually his first picture) makes things extra campy and amusingly fun. The print is a little dark in places, but the gritty sort of feel is only enhanced by the late '70s/early '80s NYC backdrop which is extremely appealing and it too makes the film more interesting. The actual story is about a lad named Dwayne who has a wad of cash and is carrying around a wicker basket with a lock on it. I won't say "what" but I will say that the "villian" in this movie is extremely laughable and cheesy and in no way is it frightening but still it's hilarious to see the not so special effects used to make the "villian" come to life. The colorful characters liven up the more talky parts of the film, but it was actually so well done (considering budget and stuff) that I'd definitely say it's a must see. I should also note that the two sequels are more of a parody and far more silly than this is, but worth a view as well.