Slaughterhouse

Slaughterhouse is a quintessential horror movie from 1987, directed by Rick Roessler. This slasher film takes place in the rural recesses of American South, where it masterfully amplifies the tension and suspense by using the haunting backdrop of a dilapidated, sinister, and abandoned slaughterhouse. Starring Joe B. Barton, Don Barrett, and Sherry Leigh, this horror flick is acclaimed for its chilling cinematography and gripping storytelling.

In the lead role is Joe B. Barton, who plays the enigmatic and fearsome character of Buddy Bacon, a ruthless, mentally unstable, obese meatpacker who brings the horror to reality. He lives with his father, Lester Bacon, a fallen businessman portrayed by Don Barrett. Sherry Leigh stars as Lizzy, a college student who, along with her friends, unwittingly becomes entangled in the terrifying plot line.

The plot starts to thicken when Lester Bacon, the previous owner of the slaughterhouse, refuses to sell his property to new-age industrial meat processors. Deeply embittered by the downfall of his family business due to modern mass meat production methods, Lester harbors a deep-seated resentment for anyone trespassing on his territory. Through Lester, the movie portrays the intricate clash between old ways and modern industry, set in the backdrop of a horrifying drama. Lester teaches Buddy, his son, how to 'treat' pigs which eventually sets the stage for a harrowing thrill ride.

As the story unfolds, Buddy's character becomes more obscure and his somewhat loyal devotion to his father only adds to the gripping narrative. Lizzy, portrayed by Sherry Leigh, unknowingly stumbles upon the eerie world of Buddy and Lester as she strives to document the old slaughterhouse for a school project. Her innocent exploration of the slaughterhouse serves as an introduction of horror and suspense into the movie.

Using the secluded countryside, deserted slaughterhouse, and the grimy interior of the building, Slaughterhouse utilizes the environment to build a chilling ambience. The movie uses grotesque imagery of the abandoned slaughterhouse to create disturbing visuals, immersing the viewer in a state of unease. The sound of squealing pigs and the echo-filled slaughterhouse give depth to the overall horrifying landscape.

Slaughterhouse also uses dark humor to lighten the otherwise macabre mood. Buddy's mechanical laughing throughout the movie, despite the dreadful deeds he's committing, is an example of the movie's twisted humor. The facet of comedy interspersed within the plot doesn't undermine the movie's scare factor but contributes to the concoction of horror and amusement that is iconic of the slasher genre.

In terms of narrative technique, the movie maintains a steady tension throughout using a series of suspense-filled encounters and sudden scares, whilst slowly, yet relentlessly, building towards a bloody climax. As the film progresses, the audience is drawn into a roller coaster ride of chills, suspense, and shifting loyalties that keep them on the edge of their seats.

Despite being a product of the 80s, the movie’s themes still resonate today, examining the deep-seated antagonism of individuals being forced to adapt to the invevitable march of modernity. Slaughterhouse also critiques the human propensity for violence when backed into a corner, delving into the psychological aspects of fear and survival.

Thrilling, entertaining and at times, downright scary, Slaughterhouse is an intriguing watch for fans of classic horror film. It leaves a lasting impression with its grim, intense scenarios, uncomfortable atmospheres, and memorable performances. Above all, it is a testament to the creativity and vision of horror cinema in the 1980s, a time when the genre was truly thriving. Overall, Slaughterhouse promises a thrilling experience that successfully executes the right notes of pure horror.