2001 Maniacs (2005)
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A remake of the classic 1964 H.G. Lewis gorefest entitled Two Thousand Maniacs! Some fans thought that since this was titled "2001 Maniacs" that it was a sequel to the first film, but if that were the case it would have to be set in 2065. Of course writer/director Tim Sullivan wasn't going to go that route, but instead bring forth a "re-imagining" of the original, promising more of the same gore and campiness that the original offered. Of course, I've never seen the H.G. Lewis adaptation, but from what I've heard it sounded like a gore-filled ride!, much like the tradition of H.G. films, being the "Godfather of Gore" and all.
This is the first film produced by Eli Roth's new production company Raw Nerve, and early in production promises of lots of blood, gore, and T&A were made, which normally come unfulfilled. This time, however, the promises were kept true, because from the start we get cool gory deaths and a lot of boobage-action -- always a plus! Mixed with a group of interesting characters, a no-brainer plot, and a lot of campy-goodness and 2001 Maniacs successfully delivers the entertainment.
The film starts out like any other -- basically a group of friends and fellow peers take a wrong detour and end up in a strange southern town, where all the townspeople are dressed as if they were stuck in the time-warp of the 1800's. Of course the travelers decide to stay the night with promises a grand celebration to be held shortly after. Sadly, the group is unaware that they'll be the main course for the feast. It doesn't take long before members of group are separated and picked off one at a time by the townies, each resulting in a horrific, gore-tastic death; speaking of which, one of my favorite deaths probably have to be one of the first ones involving horses and the tearing of limbs (ouch!).
When the movie isn't focusing on the youngin's getting themselves killed, we're treated to an abundance of boobs and campy humor to keep the pace goin'. I've heard the original was rather slow-paced and occasionally boring, which, luckily, isn't the case here. Throughout the film you'll see various cameos, like producer Eli Roth making an appearance as a hitchhiker, and Tim himself as a man nailing down a coffin. John Landis was even supposed to make an appearance at the opening of the film, but had to be replaced by Peter Stormare.
When it all comes down to it, Maniacs kept its promise and delivered the goods, which should be enough to please us horror fans. Sadly, the film is only going the DVD route, which is set to hit shelves March 21st. Regardless, Tim is giving it a full-package treatment with commentary and various other goodies. Keep a look out when this hits shelves!
The promises of T&A and loads of gore were delivered. Added with the campy humor, Maniacs ends up as a fun an entertaining no-brainer, gore-filled ride that horror fans shouldn't miss. Check this out!