The Great Alligator

The Great Alligator, released in 1979, is a thrilling Italian horror movie that features an array of Hollywood stars, including Barbara Bach, Claudio Cassinelli, and Mel Ferrer. Directed by Italian horror maestro Sergio Martino, this film stands out in the subgenre of 'animal attack' thrillers, delivering spectacular creature effects and suspenseful storytelling in equal measure.

The story transports us to the exotic locale of a tropical island paradise, where the luxurious, newly opened tourist resort of Paradise House beckons adventurous travelers, promising a memorable vacation like no other. Barbara Bach stars as Alice Brandt, a prominent photographer who is there to document the allure of the resort and its surrounding natural beauty, while Claudio Cassinelli plays Daniel Nessel, an adventurous herpetologist. Mel Ferrer grasps audience attention with his role as Joshua, the unscrupulous businessman and brain behind the Paradise House.

The main plot of the movie unravels as things begin to take a turn for the sinister after a series of unexplained disappearances, coupled with the locals' petrified accounts of a giant, sacred river creature known as "Kruna," start causing panic amongst the tourists. The concept of a voracious, prehistoric alligator reverentially worshipped and feared by the local river tribe "Kuma" forms the heart of the narrative and sets the stage for a thrilling journey of survival and deciphering the mysteries of the exotic locale.

While it may not be the first 'giant creature' movie of its time, The Great Alligator distinguishes itself through its combination of a troubling mythical creature, indigenous tribal culture, and the oblivious tourists being unsuspectingly thrown into this bizarre mix. The narrative builds upon these threads, concocting a chilling tale that pulls viewers in and keeps them on edge as horror unfolds in a paradisiacal setting.

Bach and Cassinelli's performances are to be commended, as they focus on their respective characters' evolution, transitioning from wide-eyed tourists to relentless survivors pitted against an ancient creature. Their chemistry also adds to the film’s appeal. Bach accesses a definite strength within her character Alice, while Cassinelli’s Daniel uses knowledge and bravery to counter the brewing menace.

Mel Ferrer offers a convincing take as the greedy and somewhat ruthless Joshua, embodying the capitalistic nature of his character, turning a blind eye to the concerns of the native tribe and prioritizing the financial success of his dream resort. The supporting cast members, including the natives and the resort tourists, all contribute substantially, adding depth and nuance to the narrative that keeps viewers invested and engaged.

Director Sergio Martino puts forth an efficient blend of suspense and horror, where the lurking danger in the form of the titular creature is always implied, building up the tension effectively. The craftsmanship and execution of the creature depiction also deserve a special mention. The creative team manages to bring to life the terrifying and monstrous alligator, which leaves a significant impact on the film's overall horror quotient. Moreover, the stunning cinematicals, capturing the enchanting beauty of the tropical island, contrasted with the horrifying predicament of a looming natural threat, further enhance the film’s cinematic appeal.

The Great Alligator firmly establishes how man's intrusion into unexplored territories could stir up centuries-old beliefs and fears. Its storyline skillfully integrates elements of human drama, tribal mysticism, sins of capitalism, and suspenseful horror, making the movie more than just an ordinary creature feature.

The film’s score, composed by Stelvio Cipriani, impeccably sets the tone of the film, ranging from idyllic and serene to ferociously adrenaline-inducing, aiding in establishing an atmosphere of tension and dread. It also successfully shifts between moods, in sync with the movie’s changing scenarios.

All in all, The Great Alligator is a riveting cinematic experience that takes one along a chilling path of suspense, terror, and survival. Beyond the scares and adventure, it compels viewers to think about the consequences of disrupting the balance of nature and culture for short-sighted financial gain. With its compelling storyline, stellar performances, and eye-catching visuals, The Great Alligator is a must-watch for fans of creature features and horror thrillers. Despite being a product of the 70s, the film retains its appeal, resonating with modern audiences due to its ever-relevant underpinning themes.