Chopping Mall

Chopping Mall, released in 1986, is a sensational cult classic from the science-fiction horror genre. Popular for its unique blend of horror, thrills and satire, the film stars Kelli Maroney, Tony O'Dell, and Russell Todd, delivering exciting performances under the skillful direction of Jim Wynorski. It also features Barbara Crampton and John Terlesky, who offer stellar supporting performances. The creative force behind the film, including the screenplay co-written by Wynorski and Steve Mitchell, present an eerie and darkly humorous tale that leaves the audience engrossed and entertained.

The story revolves around a newly implemented high-tech security system in the Park Plaza Mall. The twist, however, is that the security system is not made up of your typical surveillance cameras and alarm systems but instead composed of three state-of-the-art, deadly security robots known as 'Protectors'. These mechanical security guards are designed to patrol the mall after hours, armed with sleep inducing tasers and a commitment to 'protect and serve'. Sounds pretty full proof, right?

The scenario becomes significantly more exciting when a group of young mall employees decide to throw an after-hours party in one of the furniture stores one evening. This party turns chillingly fun when a lightning storm interferes with the mall's main computer system, malfunctioning the Protector robots. Their objective to 'protect and serve' takes a fatal turn, leading them to identify every moving object as a potential security threat. Instead of acting as protectors, they use their advanced technology to embark on a terrifying pursuit of the group.

One by one, the young group starts facing the wrath of the control-gone-awry robots. The task to 'shop till you drop' certainly takes on a new, chilling twist in a mall that was intended to be a sanctuary of shopping but has now turned into a deadly trap. With the mall's security doors automatically locked until dawn and their attempts to call for help futile due to the jammed telephone lines, the young group must hide, strategize, and fight back.

Now battling for survival, our main leads, including the plucky and resourceful final girl Kelly Maroney as Alison Parks and Tony O'Dell as the mechanically inclined Ferdy, provide an engaging narrative throughout their horrifying adventure. It is Alison and Ferdy's resourcefulness, combined with their knowledge of the mall's structural layout, that the audience finds to be their only hope against the relentless robots, delivering a persistent battle of the man versus machines.

Visually, Chopping Mall impresses with excellent special effects that enhance its sci-fi atmospherics. Especially remarkable are the Protector robots, which give a chilling depiction of technology gone wrong. The camerawork is transformational, capturing the sleek interiors of the mall and rapidly turning it into a horror aisle. The effective use of lighting complements the sinister tone, while the ominous sound effects shape the grim mood of the narrative. Furthermore, the synth-wave, electronic music score by Chuck Cirino adds another level to the techno-horror of the misbehaving robots.

In the context of the mid-1980s, when it was produced, Chopping Mall is an inviting social commentary. It explores the fears and fascination of technology advancement, revealing what happens when reliance on artificial intelligence backfires.

On the surface, Chopping Mall might seem like your typical 80’s 'B-movie' horror, but it’s far more than that. The film is a smart blend of suspense, horror, and science-fiction riddled with 80's pop culture nuances and displays hints of humor crying out for a cult following. It adds an unexpected spin on the usual haunted house trope, replacing the scary mansion with a modern, shiny and doom-ridden shopping mall.

Overall, Chopping Mall is a perfect watch for horror and sci-fi enthusiasts who enjoy a touch of dark humor and aren't afraid of rogue technology. Despite its age, it retains a freshness with its memorable performances, creative plot, and satirical reflection on societal changes. Its unique story progression, exhilarating suspense, and engaging characters turn this into a must-watch sci-fi horror entry from the 1980s.

In all its existential dread, thrills, and sci-fi glory, Chopping Mall promises to deliver an 'everything must go' experience, quite literally! So next time you visit a mall, do check out the security systems in place. After all, customer safety is paramount, isn't it?