Cannibal Girls

Cannibal Girls, an intriguing Canadian horror and comedy film from the early 1970s, features Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, and Ronald Ulrich in leading roles. This genre-bending film, directed by Ivan Reitman, offers a heady mix of dark humor and unsettling imagery that exemplifies the diversity and daring originality of the era's indie film scene.

Eugene Levy and Andrea Martin, two celebrated actors noted for their comedic talents and later successes in the 'SCTV' television program and other comedic roles, play Clifford and Gloria. Clifford and Gloria are a seemingly ordinary couple who embark on a gamble to add some excitement to their lives and relationship. Their adventure begins with a drive through the Ontario countryside, where they hope for a quick and refreshing getaway. However, the trip takes a chillingly unexpected twist when they stumble upon a small, remote town with a macabre legend that swiftly alters the course of their journey.

Their adventure takes them to the region where local folklore tells of three beautiful sisters who lured unsuspecting men into their delicately laid trap only to consume them. The rumor was so infamous that it earned them the title of the 'Cannibal Girls.' The information fascinates the couple prompting to explore more. Although they do not necessarily believe in the existence of these flesh-eating beauties, their unyielding curiosity guides them to a mysterious old farmhouse that is said to have been the residence of these sisters.

The peculiarly intriguing character of the Reverend Alex St. John, played by Ronald Ulrich, is introduced here. His relationship with the cannibalistic incidents and his motives serve to deepen the mystery, contribute significantly to the film's suspense, and keep the viewers on edge.

As for the overall ambiance and pacing, the film does a brilliant job capturing the eeriness invading the small town and the farmhouse. It embodies the quintessential atmosphere of early '70s horror, complete with a haunting soundtrack, intentional pacing to build suspense, and moments of comic relief that provide a counterpoint to the pervading sense of menace. Constraints of the indie film budget and the horror aesthetics of the time add to the charm of the flick, featuring explicit hints of the terror to unfold rather than relying on graphic gore.

Cannibal Girls is not just a horror-comedy. It skips the predictability of traditional horror narratives by adding unexpected elements, straddling multiple genres, and brilliantly utilizing its actors' comedic skills. It is a shining example of how humor can effectively punctuate horror when executed correctly. Levy and Martin display their acting versatility through the characters Clifford and Gloria, who are thrown into a disconcerting situation, playing off each other naturally and effectively lightening the dismal backdrop when needed. Their comedic chops shine bright amidst the horror and terror, adding a layer of hilarity to the terrifying circumstances they find themselves in and keeping the audience invested in their journey.

In a nutshell, Cannibal Girls from 1973 offers an intriguing blend of comedy and horror, marking one of the early directorial ventures of Ivan Reitman. With its engaging storyline, catchy title, and independent film charm, Cannibal Girls has rightfully earned its spot in the anals of cult cinema. It offers an unusual treat for audiences on the lookout for vintage horror-comedy, showcasing reputed actors early in their careers, and featuring a distinctive plot that continues to entertain and horrify in equal measure. Despite its age, the film's unique combination of humor and horror makes it worth revisiting, as it delivers an eerie, engaging story that compels viewers to stay until the end, awaiting the fate of Clifford and Gloria amidst the Cannibal Girls' bloody folklore.