Graveyard Tramps

Graveyard Tramps, also popularly known as Invasion of the Bee Girls, is an amalgamation of science fiction, B-movie horror, and a dash of black humor released in 1973. Directed by Denis Sanders and starring the talented William Smith, the attractive and compelling Anitra Ford, and the vibrant Victoria Vetri, the movie is a cult favorite among enthusiasts of the genre.

This science fiction/horror caper is unusual, to say the least. It’s set in a seemingly peaceful town where one might expect nothing out of the ordinary to ever occur. However, abrupt eeriness shrouds this quaint town when its male population, one by one, seem to drop dead from complete exhaustion after indulging in sexual encounters.

William Smith portrays a suave federal agent named Neil Agar, who is assigned to this peculiar case. The machismo-filled Smith does a commendable job, fitting perfectly into the mold of the intelligent and fearless investigator looking to solve a bizarre mystery. As Agar begins his investigation, he first suspects espionage, believing that somehow this small town has become an unsuspecting pawn in international power games.

However, as Agar immerses himself deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a plot that sets the stage for an unexpected science fiction twist committed by none other than the town's lovely female residents. This is where Anitra Ford, a stunning and intense actor, steps into the narrative as the gorgeous and yet sinister Dr. Susan Harris, a research scientist. Ford shines in her role, embodying the character's nuanced persona and dangerous allure with flair and conviction.

Victoria Vetri also stands out in her supporting role, adding layers of intrigue and depth to the plot. Her performance is both engaging and dynamic, seamlessly blending into the campy, sci-fi vibe of the movie.

One of the most striking aspects of Graveyard Tramps is its bizarre premise that acts as a social commentary on sexual liberation and gender roles during the era when the film was produced. The social norms and attitudes of the turbulent early '70s lend a unique texture to the film and provide plenty of grist for the horror narrative's outlandish mill. However, the movie never gets carried away with its socio-political undertones, always prioritizing entertainment and scientifically-inspired fear for its viewers.

The film is also noted for its dramatic visual aesthetics, which are quintessential of the B-movies from the 1970s. Cinematographer Gary Graver does an exceptional job in capturing the eerie atmosphere and keeping the suspense alive throughout the course of the film. The special effects, while simplistic as per current standards, evoke a nostalgic charm which fans of the genre will particularly appreciate.

Despite being marketed at the time as a drive-in style B-flick, Graveyard Tramps is more than a sum of its piquant scenarios and campy plotline; it's a smartly crafted reminder of a bygone era in filmmaking. It highlights a time in history when movies could blend together wildly different genres and a ridiculous premise into a cohesive, engaging and somehow strangely plausible narrative.

Denis Sanders deploys a fluent narrative style, a flair for sleek science fiction visuals, and feverishly intense performances from the primary cast to keep the audience engaged and rooting for the rugged, macho federal agent, who now faces the deadliest enemy he has ever encountered - a swarm of deathly seductive femme fatales.

On the surface, Graveyard Tramps may be written off as just another B grade 70s horror flick. Still, the film stands the test of time and is heartily remembered by its fans, notably for its clever blend of horror, sci-fi, and campy humor. The film boasts of a kind of unapologetic audaciousness that is undeniably a part of its charm, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy the cinema of the fantastical taken to its wildest extremes.