TV Show: Streaming Now
Music Goss
PIRANHA 3D (REVIEW)Rated MA (89 Mins)Elizabeth Shue, Ving Rhames, Jessica Szoher, Richard Dreyfuss, Dina Meyer, Jerry O'Connell, Christopher LloydA remake of the 1978 cult classic, all the key elements for an over the top horror film are here in 'Piranha 3D' and it certainly doesn't pretend to be something it is not - serious.The film starts off at the picturesque Lake Victoria - the over populated environment to thousands of college students looking to spend an American spring break confronting all forms of debauchery in and around the crystal clear waters. After a minor earthquake strikes, it causes a cavern to open in the centre of the lake unleashing a species of carnivorous prehistoric killer fish. The partying is slightly interrupted when body parts begin to wash ashore. But under a haze of alcohol, their concerns waver. Police and authorities advise to stop all water activities until further notice, but of course, that receives a resounding 'no' from those crazy kids in heat.Nothing is safe in Lake Victoria as eventually the hungry swarm stop hunting in packs and circulate downstream searching for flesh. It's up to a determined biochemist to try and outsmart the Jurassic cold blooded vertebrate and stop the carnage. The 3D effects are designed to startle and that they do to amazing effect - the fish pirouette straight off the screen and into your lap. Not since the tacky 'Jaws 3D' has there been a moment of floating grandeur like certain floating appendages that bob in front of your face in this film.An interesting array of actors all do a good job to keep a straight face in this obvious homage to B-grade gore nasties of the 70s and 80s. A long way from her one time Oscar nomination, Elizabeth Shue ('A Night on the Town', 'Leaving Las Vegas') brings a stern edge to her desperate cop in desperation role. The hulking Ving Rhames, best known for 'Pulp Fiction', is suitably over the top, especially with a chainsaw in his hands and a cameo from veteran Richard Dreyfuss all but reprises his original 'Jaws' role in a very funny moment at the beginning. Jerry O'Connell and Eli Roth ('Inglorious Basterds') also appear, albeit briefly, as they are simply part of the food chain.Other than the constant blood splatter, there are a bevy of inebriated, scantily clad beauties appealing to the senses. But the glamour is often halted by a furious fish. None more so than in a scene that could only be described as a sensuous water ballet gone wrong. The abundance of dark humour throughout lightens the tension. However the kill ratio of the deadly spawn don't let the laughter linger. The plot may be simple but the execution (pardon the pun) of proceedings move so quick. 'Piranha 3D' becomes a physical experience that lovingly exploits the teenagers in peril premise. By no means is Piranha 3D a high quality piece of celluloid. It's so gloriously entertaining and care free. Enthusiasm makes it a guilty pleasure.Shane A. Bassett
PIRANHA 3D (REVIEW)
Rated MA (89 Mins)Elizabeth Shue, Ving Rhames, Jessica Szoher, Richard Dreyfuss, Dina Meyer, Jerry O'Connell, Christopher Lloyd
A remake of the 1978 cult classic, all the key elements for an over the top horror film are here in 'Piranha 3D' and it certainly doesn't pretend to be something it is not - serious.
The film starts off at the picturesque Lake Victoria - the over populated environment to thousands of college students looking to spend an American spring break confronting all forms of debauchery in and around the crystal clear waters. After a minor earthquake strikes, it causes a cavern to open in the centre of the lake unleashing a species of carnivorous prehistoric killer fish. The partying is slightly interrupted when body parts begin to wash ashore. But under a haze of alcohol, their concerns waver. Police and authorities advise to stop all water activities until further notice, but of course, that receives a resounding 'no' from those crazy kids in heat.
Nothing is safe in Lake Victoria as eventually the hungry swarm stop hunting in packs and circulate downstream searching for flesh. It's up to a determined biochemist to try and outsmart the Jurassic cold blooded vertebrate and stop the carnage. The 3D effects are designed to startle and that they do to amazing effect - the fish pirouette straight off the screen and into your lap. Not since the tacky 'Jaws 3D' has there been a moment of floating grandeur like certain floating appendages that bob in front of your face in this film.
An interesting array of actors all do a good job to keep a straight face in this obvious homage to B-grade gore nasties of the 70s and 80s. A long way from her one time Oscar nomination, Elizabeth Shue ('A Night on the Town', 'Leaving Las Vegas') brings a stern edge to her desperate cop in desperation role. The hulking Ving Rhames, best known for 'Pulp Fiction', is suitably over the top, especially with a chainsaw in his hands and a cameo from veteran Richard Dreyfuss all but reprises his original 'Jaws' role in a very funny moment at the beginning. Jerry O'Connell and Eli Roth ('Inglorious Basterds') also appear, albeit briefly, as they are simply part of the food chain.
Other than the constant blood splatter, there are a bevy of inebriated, scantily clad beauties appealing to the senses. But the glamour is often halted by a furious fish. None more so than in a scene that could only be described as a sensuous water ballet gone wrong. The abundance of dark humour throughout lightens the tension. However the kill ratio of the deadly spawn don't let the laughter linger. The plot may be simple but the execution (pardon the pun) of proceedings move so quick. 'Piranha 3D' becomes a physical experience that lovingly exploits the teenagers in peril premise.
By no means is Piranha 3D a high quality piece of celluloid. It's so gloriously entertaining and care free. Enthusiasm makes it a guilty pleasure.
Shane A. Bassett
© 2012 Sydney Unleashed - All Rights Reserved - editor@sydneyunleashed.com
