I think it’s simply amazing that Wes Craven not only direct just one classic pioneering horror film but four! Last House On The Left, The Hills Have Eyes, A Nightmare On Elm Street and Scream are all different cinematic experiences.
cody, if ur reading this then i just wanted to say that i`ve had a hard time for a last couple of months and ur videos has always made my day better! keep up awesome work and thanks for everything ur done!
Fun fact, this film when it was out in theaters was so hated by the audience that people would destroy the projector and the screen. And also even caused a man to have a heart attack in the theater. Wes is my favorite film creator. He's a legend and I honestly feel like ever since he died. A huge part of horror died with him.
I mean....doesn't mention the fact that this was a loose remake of Virgin Springs which is a movie loosely based from a Swedish ballad Töres döttrar i Wänge. Also fails to mention that this movie was shot as a porno then they decided to add to much story and said fuck it lets make it a horror film, with that context missing Cody (in my opinion) I think he took way too much of a bias toward it being a revenge film. He is ignorant to that fact so I can't hold it against him but to say this movie is 2/5 is a travesty to cinema. If I were to label its themes it would be both a cautionary tale for rebellious youth and a satire of wealthy pretenses, an exploitative work of obscenity and a sharp piece of social criticism. He seems to think its a clumsy attempt at revenge and I think if you look at it with those glasses I have to agree, I just think he didn't put as much thought as he should've into it especially for someone who says this is one of his favorite directors he seemed to be missing details/context that would've helped give the review some perspective.
Wes said he was he had more rage inside him than he figured he had after watching the film. The film came out far more intense than what Sean and Wes realised.
I greatly appreciate you taking the time to review this movie! It is such a challenging watch to say the least. Commenting on your thoughts about the creators not exploring the fallout further on-screen(at least that is how I interpreted the comment); I took it as they wanted to put something horrific (again to say the least) before an audience and ask us to do the exploring on our own. To go internal and examine what resonates with us and why. Just a though.
It's an exploitation film. The whole point of it is sick shit. It's not a realistic drama. There is no socially responsible message. The point of it is to rip up your little teddy bears and slay your sacred cows. The point is to be irresponsible.
I love Bravo's 100 Scariest Movie Moments! Somebody on YT actually compiled all of the parts into 1 video & I usually give it a re-watch about once a year. Bravo released "30 Scarier Movie Moments" & "15 Even Scarier Movie Moments" a few years after the original, which are both great, but I wish they'd release an entirely updated list. I'm a big Wes Craven fan but seriously struggled to get through the original "Last House"...The word that best describes it is "Vile" & it was a hard watch for me. That being said, I was excited to see that you're covering it as I do believe that it has its place in horror history. Looking forward to watching all of your coverage of Wes & John Carpenter!
I feel the same way about watching rape scenes. It's one of the most evil things a person can do to another one, especially a woman. I understand that then makes the revenge aspect more satisfying, but I just feel so dirty after watching a scene in which a character is in such a horrifically vulnerable place. It's one reason why I absolutely despise Rob Zombie's Halloween, as he decided to film a pointless and gratuitous rape scene for the directors cut. 0 class
Those really shake me to the core...I remember when I saw the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, that one scene was so shocking to me. Great movie but I skip that scene every time.
Seriously, dude, the point of this movie is sick shit and half the people in the comments are complaining that it has sick shit in it. If a movie like this makes you feel dirty, that means it was an effective film. That was the whole idea! Focking hell.
@@llywelyngruffydd8474chill dude, people are just explaining how THEY feel about watching it or why they may not want to watch it. You can watch it if you like. (I feel kind of the same way as the person you respond to, but its Worth it if the revenge-part is good)
I completely respect you even more for your stance on sex assault revenge horror. I feel the same about it I love Wes Craven though but can't stomach this kind of subject
We all have things that make us uncomfortable. I personally don’t have an issue watching these types of films. But this is real horror. The horrific acts of humans is far more scary and disturbing.
I think that's the point: the SA is supposed to shock and horrify you so you can get some release from the revenge. Plus it's an exploitation movie, which has a certain cheapness to it--not just budget-wise, but also in terms of story.
I feel like the revenge at the end wasnt supposed to be satisfying or enjoyed. The whole movie itself has a sense of hopelessness to it, and the ending fits that.
Wes has commented on that before actually. He talked about how the bad guys in westerns would die and how the audience was always cued by music and such to be joyous at the outcome. With this film, while I do agree with Cody about the insane mental leap we have to make regarding the mother’s revenge, I think it generally achieves that sense of emptiness and exhaustion. Besides, after all is said and done, their daughter is still dead, so… Revenge can’t remove wounds.
Great review Cody i respect your review handling this movie, as someone who was personally sexually abused I can't watch these type of movies, when you experienced sexual abuse first hand seeing it on screen despite it being a movie triggers my PTSD & reminds me of the most traumatic experience of my life. This is one genre I refuse to watch.
Awesome that we're getting a Wes franchise series! I've only seen the remake but I've always wanted to check this out for completionist reasons, yet the subject matter also makes me never wanna watch it. Great video Cody as usual!😄
it’s based on The Virgin Spring from Ingemar Bergman I respect Wes Craven and his legacy The Last House on The Left(both the original and the remake) I Spit on Your Grave and Scream 3 fit in well today as a result of the crimes committed by Harvey Weinstein The Last House on The Left is a classic primarily as it is one of historically significant importance
Wes Craven is great but there’s just no way to improve on Ingmar Bergman. He obviously went into the horror aspect more than showing the dehumanization that comes with succumbing to the desire for revenge.
@@harveydodd8803 Wes Craven would be shocked by how his movies deeply resonate with people a decade after the crimes of Harvey Weinstein resulted in Harvey’s conviction
@@karanvirkooner1993 No question Craven was a great and critically underappreciated director. But Bergman is in the pantheon of all-time great artists to ever make films. Very few if any director could remake one of his movies and touch it as a work of art.
It’s hard for me to say “I liked” the remake of this film due to the subject matter. But overall, I’d say it was easier to watch than the original. Maybe it was bc of Aaron Paul
I always felt that the remake was kind of toothless I guess the action at the end was better than the original because when they filmed the final action scene Wes craven basically ran out of budget. But for the most part I was never as scared by the remake as I was by the original the remake just felt like whatever.
I'm with you on this...I've never watched this film for the same reason, or I Spit on Your Grave, etc. I've never felt that a film should be something I have to ENDURE.
@@Quest4Horror Perhaps, but that doesn't make it entertaining. If I want to see the real-life horrors of this world, well, I work in the news. It's there all day long. Give me a haunted house or a guy in a hockey mask any day.
It might be worth checking out Ingmar Bergman's The Virgin Spring, a classic 1960 Swedish film starring Max Von Sydow that Wes Craven loosely remade with The Last House on the Left. The basic story beats are the same in both movies, though Craven moved the tale from the Middle Ages to the present and added some additional Manson Family-esque flourishes. Bergman's film is itself based on a Medieval ballad, and it is certainly the most artistic film of this revenge genre.
I agree, the symbolism of the 'virgin spring' itself is particularly interesting (which is missing from Craven's version). The only other 'rape-and-revenge' films that have anything of substance are 'Irreversible' and 'Straw Dogs' (though I'm not a fan of the latter and the former, while great, is very draining).
I saw the remake first and I gotta say after watching the original the remake is far superior in my opinion. Btw Cody are you going to finally do a wes craven movie ranking?
What’s so scary about this movie is that this could actually happen. The 4 killers in this movie were just regular people not supernatural in anyway , idk that’s what scared me about it when I first watched it
I read that Wes wanted it to be so graphic and see everyone's reaction, yet they were seeing war footage of Vietnam on TV all the time that was just as bad.
So disingenuous. It's an exploitation film. The makers of those movies always say "We're just doing a service by getting this hard-to-watch subject matter out in the open. We're telling the truth about the way the world is. If you object to it, you're the problem." The brutality in TLHOTL doesn't do the world any social or political service. It's just there because we all know there are people who pay to see sick shit onscreen.
Man you sincerely got me psyched when you said you were going through Wes cravens filmography. You're channels crazy underrated. And yeah I echoed alot of your sentiments on this genre of movie. Thanks for the content Cody!
I bought this movie because it was A. Wes Craven and B. because 'it can't be that bad'. I didn't know MUCH about the premise, certainly not the sexual assault, but it was one of those movies that just sits with you. This genre is probably my least favorite sub genre as well and I rarely ever delve into it unless there is a reason for me to. The brutality, especially for its time, is one of those that I can actually understand unlike some movies. And you're right...the quiet parts where the ladies just almost accept what is happening to them and you see them all but give up...Its jarring. I mentioned it on your Facebook, but the music in this is unnerving as well. I am okay with having seen it so I can discuss it with knowledge within the horror community, but it will never be one I want or need to watch again.
it’s comforting to know that women aren’t alone in feeling uncomfortable during s*xual assault scenes in movies (of any genre), and that men also feel a bit queasy. I can sometimes deal if it matters to the plot in some way or if it’s more subjective than in your face. that was one of my biggest gripes with rob zombie’s halloween- the girl getting assaulted had zero to do with the plot.
12:02 I think Craven's goal was not make it a satisfying revenge movie, it shows how the family in act of revenge downgrandes itself, it shows how violence is one huge depravation and despair for everyone involved
I had the most uncomfortable movie experience few years back. Went to my moms and she had just put on a flick. I tapped out not even a 3rd of the way thru because of how uncomfortable it was getting and I still have yet to revisit “I spit on your grave” 😅
I think the fact that the director behind the Friday the 13th franchise and Nightmare on Elm Street franchise collaborated on a movie before they were well-known is a more interesting thing than the movie itself
Bravo’s 100 scariest movie moments introduced me to John Carpenter’s The Thing and many other classics, and I love that special for that! It’s on TH-cam. Last house on the left was a very unsettling movie, Wes Craven knew how to bring us horror!
I'm like you I just hate rape/ revenge films 😔 I seen this years ago and it really disturbed me! Really enjoyed your review Cody 👍 4 years I've been subscribed now 😀
This isn't a movie that I'm ever going to watch because like you it's not a sub genre I'm interested in. However, I loved your review of it. I think it might be one of best reviews you've done, you spoke about a very difficult subject matter in such a thoughtful and respectful way.
I have to say when I first saw the movie about two years ago I didn’t know if I liked it or hated it. Usually when that happens I get the urge to rewatch it again and in most cases the movie improved and this movie has grown on me to the point where it’s in my top 15 horror movies. Krug is one of the most despicable and underrated villains in horror along with Colonel Cochran from season of the witch. I wish horror films went more with the grainy look this film has because it definitely works in its favor.
I’m so looking forward to your The Hills Have Eyes review. That movie is to me what Child’s Play 3 is to you. None of the Horror people that I watch have ever talked about it so I’m so excited to hear what you have to say about it!
This was a great review. I had a hard time with musical choices in the film. They just didn’t work for me. I did get a kick out of seeing Martin Cove (a.k.a. John Kreese) in this film as the deputy who was following the sheriff around. Anyways man, I can’t wait to hear what you have to say about The serpent and the rainbow. It to me is Wes’s Most underrated film.
I think this film could’ve been good (or at least gritty and effectively disturbing) had the pace been a bit quicker and had they exercise the useless policemen. I get why they’re there, Craven probably felt the audience would need some light relief after the rape and misery. But it just creates a huge tonal imbalance and isn’t even funny to watch.
Discounting the Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream movies, we have: * The Hills Have Eyes Parts 1 and 2 * Deadly Blessing * Swamp Thing * Deadly Friend * The Serpent and the Rainbow * Shocker * The People Under the Stairs * Vampire in Brooklyn * Music of the Heart * Cursed * Red Eye * My Soul to Take I have only ever heard of The Hills Have Eyes and Swamp Thing, and only then, I only know the latter as a comic book character. So this should be fun.
I watched this film back in the 90s and my friends and I were blown away. This is actually a great and important horror film, regardless of how one might perceive it from a first time watch. This kind of film was crucial to the evolution of realism in horror. I respectfully disagree with your opinion, though I don't understand where you're coming from. I love this film and the remake, which is much better, and has a third act that is way more satisfying than the original film. Keep them coming, Cody. Love ya!
I saw the remake once several years ago. Never watched the original. The scenes in this review were disturbing. I could see myself having to repeat, “It’s just a movie.” In my head. Not my favorite genre of horror, either. Great review. My only reference to this film is the fact that my parents live on a dead end and it’s the last house on the left. Cheesy. I know. ❤️
Also, Bravo's 100 scariest moments was a big thing in introducing me to horror movies! Myself and my friend years back found it and were mad into the countdown
I watched this movie for the first time at my dads apartment. When i was about 14. And i was pretty shock by this movie. And i already by that point seen bloody horror films but the realism of this film was just much more disturbing, disgusting and appalling then anything id seen before. And i still havent revisted it and im 27 now. Its definitely one of those films you can watch once and dont have to watch it again.
I was working in a video store at 18 when a customer asked about the movie and I never heard of it. He said Wes Craven’s first movie and I knew I needed to see it. Maybe it’s because I watched this around the same time I saw Deliverance but I thought it was a great independent film. I will say that back then things were less politicized so the MeToo and urban/rural perspectives didn’t influence me. Thinking back, there’s probably more I would be uncomfortable with if I saw it 20 years later.
Great review Cody and I agree. This one is a tough watch. As for the craven review I’m most excited for well that has to be Vampire in Brooklyn. I just watched it recently and I have to say it’s much better than than I thought it would be. The tones a bit off, but I actually think the horror and comedy is pretty good. Murphy is damn good in this one.
I’ve only seen the remake. When it got to “that” scene I thought surely it would be pretty quick…and then it just kept going. I had to fast forward. I did like the ending and thought the payoff was great, though. Same with the original I Spit On Your Grave. My ex’s dad recommended that one. To me that was was the worst thing I think I’ve ever seen on screen. It was so unnecessary and brutal. I fast forwarded that one as well and the revenge/payoff was just so unenjoyable because of what I had just seen, I just wanted a shower and a drink after. It ruined my whole day lol. Love this review and you took a lot of words right out of my mouth!
6:56 What did you think of the rape scene in the Swedish version of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"? I believe it was well done, considering that it made me uncomfortable.
I agree. Especially when you consider that most movies cast women who, for some reason are all in runway-ish shape (basically women the director would like to date) for these roles. I can't take it seriously as a horror movie. People of all shapes and sizes get assaulted.
Dude, this is an exploitation film. The point of it is sick shit, not social responsibility. The point of the film is to be irresponsible and your critique of it is that the film isn't responsible and has sick shit in it. It's not a film with a political or moral message. It's not even a film that is attempting to be realistic. The whole thing is intended to be ironic in the way that all exploitation films of that period were. It's like watching a porno and complaining that the lead actor isn't convincing as a pizza delivery guy or auto mechanic or whatever. lol. Are you serious?
It should be noted that this movie also kick-started Sean Cunningham's career in horror. Definitely not my favorite sub-genre but you can't deny this movie's impact the horror to come
I love the score for this film. David Hess was hired primarily for the score, but Craven thought he looked the part of Krug so got him to also play the lead psycho
So as a kid of the 70s, I been trying to find out the name of a horror movie that came out around 1972- 75 ish that scared the crap out of my whole family, cousins & neighbors. All I remember was this woman standing on a staircase "I think" & seemed like her face melted or became demon like, with her eyes turning white or rolling back in her head. The movie was definately a supernatural flick & even my 70 yr old uncle was talking about it a couple yrs ago. Thats how gd scary it was! Any idea or links to where I can find out the name of it?
I love Wes Craven’s later works and he certainly deserves his slot as a horror legend. Love me some Freddy and Ghostface along with some underrated flicks like Red Eye. His 70s shock films (primarily Last House on the Left and Hills Have Eyes) are movies I own that I haven’t been in the mood to rewatch since I saw them 10+ years ago. I think they’re just TOO real for me. I like a sense of entertainment and escapism when it comes to horror films. Women getting sexually and physically brutalized and murdered is what you see when you turn on the news and it’s hard to switch my brain over to where I can enjoy that for entertainment value. It’s basically a movie based on true events at that point. 🤷♂️
Wes went on to make great horror movies. He even admitted that he didn't remember that much about the production because they all smoked so much weed during. It was during the grind house period where films like I Drink your Blood were made. It's a product of it's time.
Pretty much agree with your review though I think there are some deeper ideas you may have overlooked. There's recurring themes of bad choices and bad luck stalking the victims and with the transformation of the killers after the events, it had an occult element to it, particularly as they take the place of one of their victims when they arrive at her home. The ineptitude of the cops can't be overlooked either, and my feelings are that Wez Craven probably had more to say and might have said it better with more time and a better budget. It was flawed and the jaunty music and slapstick comedy were a misfire but I'm with you: I don't think revenge films have much merit anyway. Will look for your review of Scream because that's a modern classic, because it's stylised. Personally I don't want to watch people being brutalised and forgetting it's a film. I prefer to know it's not real. Great chat anyway.
Fantastic review Cody, loving your channel by the way. I have to agree, this movie is probably the only Wes Craven film I can’t stomach, because it subconsciously damages me. It’s just so brutal, and disturbing, that I erm, just can’t enjoy it or even acknowledge it. I’m sure there’s other similar movies like this that affect me too, It just.. yeah, Great review nonetheless anyway Cody.
I agree 100% with your review! I’ve actually never seen the original, I saw the remake and I was floored. I even saw the same bravo special you were mentioning and my dad bought me a 50 scariest moments of classic horror lol Anyway, Cody, awesome review. I also think I’ve seen enough of snippets that I’ll be ok if I don’t watch the original. I saw the original I Spit of your Grave and whoaaaaaa
Finally someone said it, I never got this subgenre of horror mainly b/c it's too disturbing. I have never watched either of these on purpose b/c I know I cannot stomach this, I do understand why Wes made this movie. As someone else mentioned it was his way of talking about the amount of violence in the Vietnam war being displayed on tv.
Cody, your messing hair in this vid makes you look like Jack Nicholson in The Shining in the HERE'S JOHNNY moment. Not as long as Jack's but still gives off that vibe. If you ever do a solo review of The Shining, that should be your thumbnail.
I can certainly understand why this movie was so controversial in its day but I'm with you Cody. For all the talk about how graphic and shocking it is, I expected it to be bloodier. I like the film for what it is but the whole "revenge" part at the end is ridiculous and falls completely flat.
I saw this when I was about 10 years old back when it came out. I didn't understand some of it and other parts my dad prevented me from watching. Some dentistry was taking place but someone was covering my eyes so I couldn't see it. \m/
Ironic I’m also binging all of Wes films. Just watched this, Shocker, Red Eye, Hills Have Eye 1&2, People Under The Stairs. This was pretty brutal movie for it’s time for sure
Yo Cody, I’m sure you are aware, just wanted to throw it out there if you aren’t. They’re currently filming Halloween Ends in savannah under the guise of “Cave Dweller” just thought you might want to check it out or maybe it could be some content. Keep grinding bro 🤙🏼
Wanna add this to.. We all thank the 80s for making horror the success it is today.. And for sure the 80s gave us those movies.. But the 70s definitely deserves the credit for the horror movies The 80s just came along and said well top the 70s in everyway...
Just a quick question (off topic) but to do with horror, have you ever done like a collection movie just showing your horror films? If so, I apologise for asking, I just thought that would be quite cool.
I think it’s simply amazing that Wes Craven not only direct just one classic pioneering horror film but four! Last House On The Left, The Hills Have Eyes, A Nightmare On Elm Street and Scream are all different cinematic experiences.
Dude was a legend, no doubt. Also held a PhD.
The People Under the Stairs
Um Kevin Williamson created scream thank you very much
@@montanahaler8067 Influenced by New Nightmare
@@shwonsh nope influenced by the Grandsville ripper
cody, if ur reading this then i just wanted to say that i`ve had a hard time for a last couple of months and ur videos has always made my day better!
keep up awesome work and thanks for everything ur done!
Stay strong buddy ride the storm, I too had year of hell with my father passing & agree Codys reviews are much needed escapism.
@@Timelord007 thanks bro, i hope ur doing better now, stay strong u too and may god bless u!
@@RobertMere chin up bro. Hopefully there are good times ahead.
@@TheDecline99 thank you so much buddy!
Things will get better man, I too have had a rough few months, you just stay strong my guy and things will be better man
Fun fact, this film when it was out in theaters was so hated by the audience that people would destroy the projector and the screen. And also even caused a man to have a heart attack in the theater. Wes is my favorite film creator. He's a legend and I honestly feel like ever since he died. A huge part of horror died with him.
I don’t believe that really happened
Not a movie I'm ever going to watch, but one of your best reviews ever. I love how much thought and consideration you clearly put into it.
Thank you
I mean....doesn't mention the fact that this was a loose remake of Virgin Springs which is a movie loosely based from a Swedish ballad Töres döttrar i Wänge. Also fails to mention that this movie was shot as a porno then they decided to add to much story and said fuck it lets make it a horror film, with that context missing Cody (in my opinion) I think he took way too much of a bias toward it being a revenge film. He is ignorant to that fact so I can't hold it against him but to say this movie is 2/5 is a travesty to cinema. If I were to label its themes it would be both a cautionary tale for rebellious youth and a satire of wealthy pretenses, an exploitative work of obscenity and a sharp piece of social criticism. He seems to think its a clumsy attempt at revenge and I think if you look at it with those glasses I have to agree, I just think he didn't put as much thought as he should've into it especially for someone who says this is one of his favorite directors he seemed to be missing details/context that would've helped give the review some perspective.
Wes said he was he had more rage inside him than he figured he had after watching the film. The film came out far more intense than what Sean and Wes realised.
I greatly appreciate you taking the time to review this movie! It is such a challenging watch to say the least. Commenting on your thoughts about the creators not exploring the fallout further on-screen(at least that is how I interpreted the comment); I took it as they wanted to put something horrific (again to say the least) before an audience and ask us to do the exploring on our own. To go internal and examine what resonates with us and why. Just a though.
It's an exploitation film. The whole point of it is sick shit. It's not a realistic drama. There is no socially responsible message. The point of it is to rip up your little teddy bears and slay your sacred cows. The point is to be irresponsible.
I love Bravo's 100 Scariest Movie Moments! Somebody on YT actually compiled all of the parts into 1 video & I usually give it a re-watch about once a year. Bravo released "30 Scarier Movie Moments" & "15 Even Scarier Movie Moments" a few years after the original, which are both great, but I wish they'd release an entirely updated list.
I'm a big Wes Craven fan but seriously struggled to get through the original "Last House"...The word that best describes it is "Vile" & it was a hard watch for me. That being said, I was excited to see that you're covering it as I do believe that it has its place in horror history. Looking forward to watching all of your coverage of Wes & John Carpenter!
I feel the same way about watching rape scenes. It's one of the most evil things a person can do to another one, especially a woman. I understand that then makes the revenge aspect more satisfying, but I just feel so dirty after watching a scene in which a character is in such a horrifically vulnerable place. It's one reason why I absolutely despise Rob Zombie's Halloween, as he decided to film a pointless and gratuitous rape scene for the directors cut. 0 class
Those really shake me to the core...I remember when I saw the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, that one scene was so shocking to me. Great movie but I skip that scene every time.
Seriously, dude, the point of this movie is sick shit and half the people in the comments are complaining that it has sick shit in it. If a movie like this makes you feel dirty, that means it was an effective film. That was the whole idea! Focking hell.
@@llywelyngruffydd8474chill dude, people are just explaining how THEY feel about watching it or why they may not want to watch it. You can watch it if you like. (I feel kind of the same way as the person you respond to, but its Worth it if the revenge-part is good)
I completely respect you even more for your stance on sex assault revenge horror. I feel the same about it I love Wes Craven though but can't stomach this kind of subject
Yeah I just don't get the appeal of it. I know it sounds hypocritical that I can watch murder all day in horror films. Lol
@fatopossum it’s a form of sadistic wishful thinking/satisfaction for SA survivors.
We all have things that make us uncomfortable. I personally don’t have an issue watching these types of films. But this is real horror. The horrific acts of humans is far more scary and disturbing.
Rape is the only thing that makes me stomach turn…
I think that's the point: the SA is supposed to shock and horrify you so you can get some release from the revenge. Plus it's an exploitation movie, which has a certain cheapness to it--not just budget-wise, but also in terms of story.
I feel like the revenge at the end wasnt supposed to be satisfying or enjoyed. The whole movie itself has a sense of hopelessness to it, and the ending fits that.
Wes has commented on that before actually. He talked about how the bad guys in westerns would die and how the audience was always cued by music and such to be joyous at the outcome. With this film, while I do agree with Cody about the insane mental leap we have to make regarding the mother’s revenge, I think it generally achieves that sense of emptiness and exhaustion. Besides, after all is said and done, their daughter is still dead, so…
Revenge can’t remove wounds.
yup... went Home Aloney there at the end.
as an aside: i loved, loved, loved the Soundtrack.
Great review Cody i respect your review handling this movie, as someone who was personally sexually abused I can't watch these type of movies, when you experienced sexual abuse first hand seeing it on screen despite it being a movie triggers my PTSD & reminds me of the most traumatic experience of my life.
This is one genre I refuse to watch.
Awesome that we're getting a Wes franchise series!
I've only seen the remake but I've always wanted to check this out for completionist reasons, yet the subject matter also makes me never wanna watch it.
Great video Cody as usual!😄
it’s based on The Virgin Spring from Ingemar Bergman
I respect Wes Craven and his legacy
The Last House on The Left(both the original and the remake) I Spit on Your Grave and Scream 3 fit in well today as a result of the crimes committed by Harvey Weinstein
The Last House on The Left is a classic primarily as it is one of historically significant importance
Wes Craven is great but there’s just no way to improve on Ingmar Bergman. He obviously went into the horror aspect more than showing the dehumanization that comes with succumbing to the desire for revenge.
@@harveydodd8803 Wes Craven would be shocked by how his movies deeply resonate with people a decade after the crimes of Harvey Weinstein resulted in Harvey’s conviction
@@karanvirkooner1993 No question Craven was a great and critically underappreciated director. But Bergman is in the pantheon of all-time great artists to ever make films. Very few if any director could remake one of his movies and touch it as a work of art.
@@harveydodd8803 exactly
It’s hard for me to say “I liked” the remake of this film due to the subject matter. But overall, I’d say it was easier to watch than the original. Maybe it was bc of Aaron Paul
I always felt that the remake was kind of toothless I guess the action at the end was better than the original because when they filmed the final action scene Wes craven basically ran out of budget.
But for the most part I was never as scared by the remake as I was by the original the remake just felt like whatever.
I'm with you on this...I've never watched this film for the same reason, or I Spit on Your Grave, etc. I've never felt that a film should be something I have to ENDURE.
Then it’s a true horror film isn’t it.
@@Quest4Horror Perhaps, but that doesn't make it entertaining. If I want to see the real-life horrors of this world, well, I work in the news. It's there all day long. Give me a haunted house or a guy in a hockey mask any day.
Same here...I don't want to feel I have to endure a film...
It might be worth checking out Ingmar Bergman's The Virgin Spring, a classic 1960 Swedish film starring Max Von Sydow that Wes Craven loosely remade with The Last House on the Left. The basic story beats are the same in both movies, though Craven moved the tale from the Middle Ages to the present and added some additional Manson Family-esque flourishes. Bergman's film is itself based on a Medieval ballad, and it is certainly the most artistic film of this revenge genre.
I agree, the symbolism of the 'virgin spring' itself is particularly interesting (which is missing from Craven's version). The only other 'rape-and-revenge' films that have anything of substance are 'Irreversible' and 'Straw Dogs' (though I'm not a fan of the latter and the former, while great, is very draining).
I'd love a review on both Hills Have Eyes. I hope you won't skip part 2. It most definitely deserves a review.
I saw the remake first and I gotta say after watching the original the remake is far superior in my opinion. Btw Cody are you going to finally do a wes craven movie ranking?
Hell yeah original was boring. But I did get a woody from mom biting dude penis off 😂
@@joeljohnson6137 Bro?
...😶
What’s so scary about this movie is that this could actually happen. The 4 killers in this movie were just regular people not supernatural in anyway , idk that’s what scared me about it when I first watched it
I read that Wes wanted it to be so graphic and see everyone's reaction, yet they were seeing war footage of Vietnam on TV all the time that was just as bad.
So disingenuous. It's an exploitation film. The makers of those movies always say "We're just doing a service by getting this hard-to-watch subject matter out in the open. We're telling the truth about the way the world is. If you object to it, you're the problem." The brutality in TLHOTL doesn't do the world any social or political service. It's just there because we all know there are people who pay to see sick shit onscreen.
I appreciate Cody's care in speaking about this movie.
Man what a great fucking review. Cody been killing it for a while now. Look in forward to the Wes Craven reviews dude.
Man you sincerely got me psyched when you said you were going through Wes cravens filmography. You're channels crazy underrated. And yeah I echoed alot of your sentiments on this genre of movie. Thanks for the content Cody!
I bought this movie because it was A. Wes Craven and B. because 'it can't be that bad'. I didn't know MUCH about the premise, certainly not the sexual assault, but it was one of those movies that just sits with you. This genre is probably my least favorite sub genre as well and I rarely ever delve into it unless there is a reason for me to. The brutality, especially for its time, is one of those that I can actually understand unlike some movies. And you're right...the quiet parts where the ladies just almost accept what is happening to them and you see them all but give up...Its jarring. I mentioned it on your Facebook, but the music in this is unnerving as well. I am okay with having seen it so I can discuss it with knowledge within the horror community, but it will never be one I want or need to watch again.
As soon as you mentioned Bravo 100 Scariest Moments I checked to see if it was up on YT and it is (at least in Australia) Thank you!
Will we be getting a Deadly friend review? It is one of my earliest horror memories from when I was a kid.
Also I’m so excited for you to talk about Red Eye!! One of Wes’ most underrated films
That will be a first time watch too!
Yes forgot about that , great film .
it’s comforting to know that women aren’t alone in feeling uncomfortable during s*xual assault scenes in movies (of any genre), and that men also feel a bit queasy. I can sometimes deal if it matters to the plot in some way or if it’s more subjective than in your face. that was one of my biggest gripes with rob zombie’s halloween- the girl getting assaulted had zero to do with the plot.
12:02 I think Craven's goal was not make it a satisfying revenge movie, it shows how the family in act of revenge downgrandes itself, it shows how violence is one huge depravation and despair for everyone involved
I had the most uncomfortable movie experience few years back. Went to my moms and she had just put on a flick. I tapped out not even a 3rd of the way thru because of how uncomfortable it was getting and I still have yet to revisit “I spit on your grave” 😅
I never saw original saw remake an the next 2. 2010 was the best one..
I think the fact that the director behind the Friday the 13th franchise and Nightmare on Elm Street franchise collaborated on a movie before they were well-known is a more interesting thing than the movie itself
100% spot on review. Couldn’t get into it.
Bravo’s 100 scariest movie moments introduced me to John Carpenter’s The Thing and many other classics, and I love that special for that! It’s on TH-cam.
Last house on the left was a very unsettling movie, Wes Craven knew how to bring us horror!
I watched this as a kid when I went through my dad's cd collection. Stuck with me for life and I don't even think I got half way through
I'm like you I just hate rape/ revenge films 😔
I seen this years ago and it really disturbed me! Really enjoyed your review Cody 👍 4 years I've been subscribed now 😀
This isn't a movie that I'm ever going to watch because like you it's not a sub genre I'm interested in. However, I loved your review of it. I think it might be one of best reviews you've done, you spoke about a very difficult subject matter in such a thoughtful and respectful way.
You nailed it. I feel the exact same way. I just feel gross inside watching this kind of movie. Never been a fan.
I have to say when I first saw the movie about two years ago I didn’t know if I liked it or hated it. Usually when that happens I get the urge to rewatch it again and in most cases the movie improved and this movie has grown on me to the point where it’s in my top 15 horror movies. Krug is one of the most despicable and underrated villains in horror along with Colonel Cochran from season of the witch. I wish horror films went more with the grainy look this film has because it definitely works in its favor.
5:23 that's the exact reason I find the original texas chainsaw massacre better than the remake.
I’m so looking forward to your The Hills Have Eyes review. That movie is to me what Child’s Play 3 is to you. None of the Horror people that I watch have ever talked about it so I’m so excited to hear what you have to say about it!
This was a great review. I had a hard time with musical choices in the film. They just didn’t work for me. I did get a kick out of seeing Martin Cove (a.k.a. John Kreese) in this film as the deputy who was following the sheriff around. Anyways man, I can’t wait to hear what you have to say about The serpent and the rainbow. It to me is Wes’s Most underrated film.
I think this film could’ve been good (or at least gritty and effectively disturbing) had the pace been a bit quicker and had they exercise the useless policemen. I get why they’re there, Craven probably felt the audience would need some light relief after the rape and misery. But it just creates a huge tonal imbalance and isn’t even funny to watch.
Wow,, I’m not the only one who discovered this through bravos 100 scariest movies… and had pretty much the exact same reaction.
Wes Craven REVIEW SERIES?!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! I'm so excited baby 😁
Wes Craven is my favorite director!
I love the Bravo special!! It's on Tubi, so I like to rewatch it.🖤
Discounting the Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream movies, we have:
* The Hills Have Eyes Parts 1 and 2
* Deadly Blessing
* Swamp Thing
* Deadly Friend
* The Serpent and the Rainbow
* Shocker
* The People Under the Stairs
* Vampire in Brooklyn
* Music of the Heart
* Cursed
* Red Eye
* My Soul to Take
I have only ever heard of The Hills Have Eyes and Swamp Thing, and only then, I only know the latter as a comic book character. So this should be fun.
I'm not a big fan of the original, but i absolutely love the Remake. I know shame on me 😅
The original has strange edits, weird music that doesn't fit ever, feels goofy.. I agree, it's a case of the remake being better
Yup! Shame on you!
@@IdiocyShow Ridiculous!
@@tempolost insanely!
You are allowed your opinion 😉
Having a young Martin Kove as the cop got me.. Freaking Kreese is in this..
No mention of the daft comedy moments involving the two dopey cops & chicken lady. Likely included to increase the runtime a bit.
Good review Cody! Looking forward to Deadly Blessing and Deadly Friend reviews.
Got the thumbs up right after seeing the opening. Perfect! LOL
I am so glad u are reviewing this film it is such an important movie. Literally kick started a whole genre. Amazing film.
I watched this film back in the 90s and my friends and I were blown away. This is actually a great and important horror film, regardless of how one might perceive it from a first time watch. This kind of film was crucial to the evolution of realism in horror. I respectfully disagree with your opinion, though I don't understand where you're coming from. I love this film and the remake, which is much better, and has a third act that is way more satisfying than the original film. Keep them coming, Cody. Love ya!
Did you mean to say you DO understand where he’s coming from?
@schuylersavage276 Certainly. I honestly don't remember the video that well, but it I said it, I meant it.
@ haha I know it’s been 2 years! But I figured if you posted it, you would want people to know what you actually meant! Cheers !
@schuylersavage276 Merry Christmas.
I loved Bravos 100 scariest movie moments
I saw the remake once several years ago. Never watched the original. The scenes in this review were disturbing. I could see myself having to repeat, “It’s just a movie.” In my head. Not my favorite genre of horror, either. Great review. My only reference to this film is the fact that my parents live on a dead end and it’s the last house on the left. Cheesy. I know. ❤️
Remake was better an hills have eyes
Yes first viewer and commenter lol love Wes craven my all time favorite director thank you Cody
Cant wait to hear your review on his lessor known & underrated films like the fireworks women,deadly blessing & Mind ripper
Totally agree I can’t stomach those kinda scenes so makes the whole movie a waste for me. Looking forward to the future Wes craven reviews
I feel you on the «rape/assault» subgenre. It just pisses me off even tho its just a movie. This shit happens 🤷♂️
Also, Bravo's 100 scariest moments was a big thing in introducing me to horror movies! Myself and my friend years back found it and were mad into the countdown
So no Abe Snake 🐍 movies?
I watched this movie for the first time at my dads apartment. When i was about 14. And i was pretty shock by this movie. And i already by that point seen bloody horror films but the realism of this film was just much more disturbing, disgusting and appalling then anything id seen before. And i still havent revisted it and im 27 now. Its definitely one of those films you can watch once and dont have to watch it again.
My favorite part is when mom bit the villain penis 😆 off. I felt like I was watching kinky porn
I was working in a video store at 18 when a customer asked about the movie and I never heard of it. He said Wes Craven’s first movie and I knew I needed to see it. Maybe it’s because I watched this around the same time I saw Deliverance but I thought it was a great independent film. I will say that back then things were less politicized so the MeToo and urban/rural perspectives didn’t influence me. Thinking back, there’s probably more I would be uncomfortable with if I saw it 20 years later.
Great review Cody and I agree. This one is a tough watch. As for the craven review I’m most excited for well that has to be Vampire in Brooklyn. I just watched it recently and I have to say it’s much better than than I thought it would be. The tones a bit off, but I actually think the horror and comedy is pretty good. Murphy is damn good in this one.
Big fan of your channel! So funny I started watching all of Wes Craven's films a week ago. Good stuff
Great review. Looking forward to The Fireworks Woman review next
This movie is unintentionally laughable for me, it feels so much like Deliverance combined with Dukes of Hazard and Home Alone
I’ve only seen the remake. When it got to “that” scene I thought surely it would be pretty quick…and then it just kept going. I had to fast forward. I did like the ending and thought the payoff was great, though. Same with the original I Spit On Your Grave. My ex’s dad recommended that one. To me that was was the worst thing I think I’ve ever seen on screen. It was so unnecessary and brutal. I fast forwarded that one as well and the revenge/payoff was just so unenjoyable because of what I had just seen, I just wanted a shower and a drink after. It ruined my whole day lol.
Love this review and you took a lot of words right out of my mouth!
Yeah I try stay away from films that go this far, so to speak. At times I find it all a bit too much. Great review Cody.
Lol, good intro big man!
6:56
What did you think of the rape scene in the Swedish version of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"? I believe it was well done, considering that it made me uncomfortable.
I agree. Especially when you consider that most movies cast women who, for some reason are all in runway-ish shape (basically women the director would like to date) for these roles. I can't take it seriously as a horror movie. People of all shapes and sizes get assaulted.
Dude, this is an exploitation film. The point of it is sick shit, not social responsibility. The point of the film is to be irresponsible and your critique of it is that the film isn't responsible and has sick shit in it. It's not a film with a political or moral message. It's not even a film that is attempting to be realistic. The whole thing is intended to be ironic in the way that all exploitation films of that period were. It's like watching a porno and complaining that the lead actor isn't convincing as a pizza delivery guy or auto mechanic or whatever. lol. Are you serious?
It should be noted that this movie also kick-started Sean Cunningham's career in horror. Definitely not my favorite sub-genre but you can't deny this movie's impact the horror to come
I love the score for this film. David Hess was hired primarily for the score, but Craven thought he looked the part of Krug so got him to also play the lead psycho
The soundtrack score sounded like a comedy road flick
Cool idea for a film review series btw. Hope you do David cronenburg at some point
The Shocker. Can’t wait
So as a kid of the 70s, I been trying to find out the name of a horror movie that came out around 1972- 75 ish that scared the crap out of my whole family, cousins & neighbors. All I remember was this woman standing on a staircase "I think" & seemed like her face melted or became demon like, with her eyes turning white or rolling back in her head. The movie was definately a supernatural flick & even my 70 yr old uncle was talking about it a couple yrs ago. Thats how gd scary it was! Any idea or links to where I can find out the name of it?
I've heard Wes discuss that this wad a metaphor for the youth of the Naim generation. And the trauma the generation felt.
I love Wes Craven’s later works and he certainly deserves his slot as a horror legend. Love me some Freddy and Ghostface along with some underrated flicks like Red Eye. His 70s shock films (primarily Last House on the Left and Hills Have Eyes) are movies I own that I haven’t been in the mood to rewatch since I saw them 10+ years ago. I think they’re just TOO real for me. I like a sense of entertainment and escapism when it comes to horror films. Women getting sexually and physically brutalized and murdered is what you see when you turn on the news and it’s hard to switch my brain over to where I can enjoy that for entertainment value. It’s basically a movie based on true events at that point. 🤷♂️
Wes went on to make great horror movies. He even admitted that he didn't remember that much about the production because they all smoked so much weed during. It was during the grind house period where films like I Drink your Blood were made. It's a product of it's time.
Pretty much agree with your review though I think there are some deeper ideas you may have overlooked. There's recurring themes of bad choices and bad luck stalking the victims and with the transformation of the killers after the events, it had an occult element to it, particularly as they take the place of one of their victims when they arrive at her home. The ineptitude of the cops can't be overlooked either, and my feelings are that Wez Craven probably had more to say and might have said it better with more time and a better budget. It was flawed and the jaunty music and slapstick comedy were a misfire but I'm with you: I don't think revenge films have much merit anyway. Will look for your review of Scream because that's a modern classic, because it's stylised. Personally I don't want to watch people being brutalised and forgetting it's a film. I prefer to know it's not real. Great chat anyway.
I first saw this film when I was 18 which was three years ago and I have absolutely no interest in watching it again. 4/10 for me
Fantastic review Cody, loving your channel by the way.
I have to agree, this movie is probably the only Wes Craven film I can’t stomach, because it subconsciously damages me. It’s just so brutal, and disturbing, that I erm, just can’t enjoy it or even acknowledge it. I’m sure there’s other similar movies like this that affect me too, It just.. yeah,
Great review nonetheless anyway Cody.
I agree 100% with your review! I’ve actually never seen the original, I saw the remake and I was floored. I even saw the same bravo special you were mentioning and my dad bought me a 50 scariest moments of classic horror lol
Anyway, Cody, awesome review. I also think I’ve seen enough of snippets that I’ll be ok if I don’t watch the original. I saw the original I Spit of your Grave and whoaaaaaa
I’m with you on this subgenre. Can’t get into it.
Finally someone said it, I never got this subgenre of horror mainly b/c it's too disturbing. I have never watched either of these on purpose b/c I know I cannot stomach this, I do understand why Wes made this movie. As someone else mentioned it was his way of talking about the amount of violence in the Vietnam war being displayed on tv.
Last house on Left an Spit on Grave remakes was good but hard to watch at times because of rape..
Cody, your messing hair in this vid makes you look like Jack Nicholson in The Shining in the HERE'S JOHNNY moment. Not as long as Jack's but still gives off that vibe. If you ever do a solo review of The Shining, that should be your thumbnail.
This couldn’t be made today…..
It's a Grindhouse movie it's meant for people who love the Grindhouse....
Well this a review I thought I'd never see on here lol thank you
Wasn't there some corny music in spots that didn't fit the tone of the movie? It's been awhile since I've seen it.
The music is odd but I couldn't help but feel like it was intentionally off-putting.
I can certainly understand why this movie was so controversial in its day but I'm with you Cody. For all the talk about how graphic and shocking it is, I expected it to be bloodier. I like the film for what it is but the whole "revenge" part at the end is ridiculous and falls completely flat.
I thought this movie was disgusting in 1972, who could have imaged what we have today? We are doomed.
I saw this when I was about 10 years old back when it came out. I didn't understand some of it and other parts my dad prevented me from watching. Some dentistry was taking place but someone was covering my eyes so I couldn't see it. \m/
Didn't Sean Cunningham work on this with Wes Craven? It'll have been about 8 years before he did the original Friday the 13th.
Ironic I’m also binging all of Wes films. Just watched this, Shocker, Red Eye, Hills Have Eye 1&2, People Under The Stairs. This was pretty brutal movie for it’s time for sure
The People Under the Stairs has always been a favorite of mine
Yo Cody, I’m sure you are aware, just wanted to throw it out there if you aren’t. They’re currently filming Halloween Ends in savannah under the guise of “Cave Dweller” just thought you might want to check it out or maybe it could be some content. Keep grinding bro 🤙🏼
I love craven but this is one of those films I just won't watch, I have no interest in it. Great video as always!
Wanna add this to..
We all thank the 80s for making horror the success it is today..
And for sure the 80s gave us those movies..
But the 70s definitely deserves the credit for the horror movies
The 80s just came along and said well top the 70s in everyway...
Just a quick question (off topic) but to do with horror, have you ever done like a collection movie just showing your horror films? If so, I apologise for asking, I just thought that would be quite cool.