Cannibal Apocalypse

Cannibal Apocalypse, a gruesome 1980 Italian-Spanish horror film also known throughout the world as Apocalypse Domani, Invasion of the Fleshhunters, or Virus amongst other titles, is one that tests the stomachs of even the most stalwart horror fans while engaging them with its absolutely unique premise. The movie leans heavily on the horror themes, riding on the waves of the late 70's and early 80's popularity for cannibal and zombie genres.

The movie stars John Saxon, best known for his roles in Enter the Dragon and Nightmare on Elm Street. Saxon plays the character of Norman Hopper, a troubled Vietnam War veteran living a suburban life in Atlanta, Georgia. Elizabeth Turner and Giovanni Lombardo Radice join him on the cast list, bolstering the film's acting clout and ensuring its place in the annals of cult cinema history.

Cannibal Apocalypse kicks off with a resonating prologue set during the Vietnam War, exhibiting glimpses of the horrors that Hopper suffered whilst serving his country. The film then jumps ahead to an average sunny day in suburban United States, a stark contrast to the humid jungles of Vietnam previously shown. Hopper seems to lead an idyllic life, complete with loving wife and peaceful neighborhood. However, a phone call soon disrupts this serenity, bringing back haunting memories of the war. His old war buddy, Charlie Bukowski (played by Radice), invites Hopper out for a day of shooting pool.

This innocent day out, however, unravels into a nightmare. Hopper soon realizes that both he and Bukowski are inflicted with a peculiar type of virus caught back in Vietnam that gives them a hunger for human flesh. The virus appears to be infectious, spreading through biting, causing an escalating chain of cannibalistic violence through Atlanta’s unsuspecting population.

The rest of the movie dances on a tight rope between war film, drama, horror, and gore. It mercilessly puts its characters through a series of horrifying situations in an attempt to quench their insatiable hunger for human flesh. The film doesn't shy from showcasing graphic imagery and precise gore effects, making it a particular favorite amongst fans of the horror genre.

The director, Antonio Margheriti, better known as Anthony M. Dawson, demonstrates a masterful approach to the film. His unique direction enhances the effect of the horrifying narrative. His ability to subtly intertwine harrowing tales of post-war personal demons with moments of frantic horror keeps viewers hooked.

A powerful score, composed by Alexander Blonksteiner, complements the film's unsettling sequences, amplifying the suspense felt throughout. Coupled with Margheriti’s direction, the score adds an extra dimension that gnaws at your nerves and holds your attention from start to finish.

What separates Cannibal Apocalypse from its counterparts of the cannibal genre, many of them set in remote exotic locations, is its daring choice to place its narrative in the heart of a bustling American city, with the protagonists being war heroes instead of distant, unknown tribes. This definition of the ‘other’ as one of their own may not make for comfortable viewing, but it pulls the viewers out of their comfort zones and forces them to question the effects of war on the human psyche – an unusual takeaway from a film of this nature.

Cannibal Apocalypse is a definite must-watch for fans of horror, gore and cannibal genres. But beyond its shock value, the film also highlights the psychological trauma many soldiers face post-war. Make no mistake, the movie is a blood-drenched feast that leaves one questioning where the line between human and beast is drawn.

Although the movie may not have amassed a following as sizable as some other cult classics of its time, its unique spin on the cannibal genre makes it a classic worth delving into. Despite its gruesome overlay, Cannibal Apocalypse's narrative subtly touches on the transformative impacts of war on those involved at the front line.