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The Burning
1981 91 min United States of America, Canada R 18+
★6.5
Horror
Director: Tony Maylam
Trailers
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Description
A caretaker at a summer camp is burned when a prank goes tragically wrong. After several years of intensive treatment at hospital, he is released back into society, albeit missing some social skills. What follows is a bloody killing spree with the caretaker making his way back to his old stomping ground to confront one of the youths that accidentally burned him.
Budget:
$1.5M
Starring
Brian Matthews
Actor
Leah Ayres
Actor
Brian Backer
Actor
Key opinion
The Burning is widely regarded as a quintessential yet derivative 1980s slasher that has transcended its initial reputation as a Friday the 13th knock-off to achieve cult status. While critics are polarized regarding the film's narrative originality and pacing, there is a strong consensus that it excels in atmosphere and practical effects.
| Production | Tom Savini’s practical special effects and creature design for Cropsy are widely praised as high-quality highlights of the genre. | |
| Acting | The film features surprisingly strong, charismatic performances from its young cast, including early career roles for Jason Alexander and Holly Hunter. | |
| Emotion | The iconic raft sequence stands out as a masterfully executed, terrifying centerpiece of the film. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay is criticized for being overly formulaic, relying on stereotypical characters and plot points established by Friday the 13th. | |
| Pacing | Opinions on pacing are divided, as some viewers appreciate the immersive, slow-burn camp atmosphere, while others find the film sluggish and boring. | |
| Direction | Opinions on the direction are split; supporters praise the atmospheric immersion of the camp setting, while detractors argue the direction is unoriginal and fails to create genuine tension. |