While at the B Movie Celebration I was caught having to decide between two films playing simultaneously; Zombies From Outer Space, a German film, or The Tentacle’s Claw coming down from Newfoundland. Both homage films, both equally tempting. Admittedly I was leaning toward Zombies because, well..they were from outer space, until I was introduced to a couple who had shown up to the show. None other than the writer/director Michael Rigler and star Tara Manuel had made the trek down to Columbus, Indiana for the screening. With the film makers on hand, and not really in the mood to read another film just then, I chose The Tentacle’s Claw. I am so glad I did.
OK, obviously I can’t say whether or not I would have liked or disliked the other film, I can say I really enjoyed this one. The Tentacle’s Claw is an homage to the films of the 40’s or 50’s, it reminded me a LOT of Ed Wood’s 1955 movie Bride of the Monster, but has bits of flair that might take you back to Bela Lugosi in The Phantom Creeps.
Here is the trailer. Check it out and read on.
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You can glean most of the important plot elements from the trailer but to summarize:
A scientist has his sights set on world domination. He masquerades as the owner and cook at the local burger joint while carrying out his evil plans and creates a device that allows him to control a giant tentacled beast, turning it on anyone who might get in his way.
Unfortunately for him a local school teacher, Marie Lemay, and her friend Dr. Dick Goodwin (who luckily is a “brain scientist”) stumbles across his plan and sets out to bring him to justice.
There is something particularly interesting about creature ‘effects’ in the film. I’m not going to spoil the surprise for you here but I will tell you that the budget for the entire film was only $1200 Canadian. Take that as you will.
Now as you can tell, this film goes right the edge before going over the top, then jumps. Thanks to a cast that never takes themselves too seriously, but also never lets on that they are in on the joke, this method works really well. The film has all the humor of Mystery Science Theater 3000 but with out the silhouettes blocking the screen.
If you get the chance to see the film, DO NOT even think about taking this film seriously but DO plan on having fun.
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