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The Last House on the Left
1972 84 min United States of America R 18+
★6.2
Horror, Crime
Director: Wes Craven
Trailers
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Description
On the eve of her 17th birthday, Mari and friend Phyllis set off from her family home to attend a rock concert in the city. Attempting to score some drugs on the way, the pair run afoul of a group of vicious crooks, headed up by the sadistic Krug.
Budget:
$90,000
Starring
Sandra Peabody
Actor
Lucy Grantham
Actor
David Hess
Actor
Awards
1 nomination total
Key opinion
Wes Craven's debut is a polarizing exploitation film that is widely recognized for its historical significance in shaping the slasher genre and its raw, unsettling atmosphere. Opinions are sharply divided on its execution, with some viewers finding the violence and tension highly effective, while others criticize the simplistic script, amateurish pacing, and jarring tonal shifts.
| Originality | The film serves as a foundational text for modern horror, pioneering tropes like the 'based on true events' marketing and influencing the slasher subgenre. | |
| Acting | David Hess provides a chilling, standout performance as the primary antagonist that anchors the film's predatory nature. | |
| Direction | The film’s juxtaposition of gruesome violence with upbeat, ironic musical cues and slapstick police antics is viewed by some as an effective artistic contrast and by others as a jarring, amateurish tonal failure. | |
| Screenplay | The script is criticized by many for being simplistic, underdeveloped, and relying on implausible character decisions, though some appreciate its lean, straightforward structure. | |
| Pacing | The pacing is a major point of contention, with some finding the tension-building first act masterful and others labeling the film as slow, boring, and lacking in momentum. | |
| Emotion | The portrayal of graphic, realistic violence is lauded by proponents for its lasting, visceral impact but dismissed by critics as shallow 'shock' content that lacks depth. |