Sunday, October 27, 2013

October 17th: Basket Case, dir. Frank Henenlotter, 1982 (United States). 2.5/5 pumpkins.
"What's in the basket? Easter eggs?"


I’ve always been a big fan of Brain Damage but have managed to avoid seeing anything else from Frank Henenlotter prior to this viewing last week. I love how this film really captures all the filth and grime of New York City circa the late ‘70s/'80s. For as slick as Maniac is, this is equally grungy – just check out that doctor’s office with the rusted pipes and flaking paint in the background, or the protagonist’s flop-house dwelling really is that, and not an antiseptic set. The natural layer of filth on everything, combined with the eccentric cast of supporting characters, is really the reason to see this one. The assorted freaks and oddballs that constantly gather outside of the hotel room door when Belial starts throwing temper tantrums are equally as amusing as the silly stop-motion puppet. Suitably trashy and gross. 


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