‘Gremlins’ 40th Anniversary Review: A Timeless Blend of Horror and Humor
Joe Dante’s 1984 horror-comedy film Gremlins might be considered a much loved artefact of the 1980s, but it has also firmly established its place as a mainstay in the world of horror-comedies. Read our review in celebration of Gremlins’ 40th anniversary.
As one will note in celebration of Gremlins’ 40th anniversary it is worthwhile to reflect on what makes it an enduring classic. In this review we will reflect on the film’s distinctive blend of humour, horror, and heart; reflect on the practical effects used to craft its visual appeal; and unpack the deeper themes that continue to connect with audiences today.
The transformation of Gremlins from idea to screen is a riveting story of artistic ambition and Hollywood magic. Screenwriter Chris Columbus was inspired by his youthful enthusiasm for monster movies and penned a script that ultimately evolved into Gremlins. Columbus’s screenplay synthesized traditional monster lore into a contemporary milieu, presenting a new twist on a familiar genre. The script soon attracted the interest of producer Steven Spielberg, whose endorsement ultimately brought the project to life. Spielberg, who had established a reputation for producing successes, recognized that Columbus had the remarkable notion, and ultimately developed the film under the Amblin Entertainment banner.
Joe Dante, coming off directing the remarkable 1981 cult classic The Howling, was attached as the director; he shaped the unique narrative tone of the project, combining comedy and horror into something credible and stylishly effective. The partnership of Dante, Columbus, and Spielberg created an audience-friendly film that was both commercially and critically-acclaimed, mingling scares and laughter in a manner few films had already attempted.
Perhaps one of the more readily apparent features that add to the film’s reminiscence is its use of practical effects. Before CGI flooded theatres in the late 1990’s, Gremlins was using animatronics, puppets, and remotely operated models created by the great special effects artist Chris Walas. Don’t get mistaken, the eponymous gremlins aren’t simply creepy and clever; the level of detail in their construction rendered them almost lifelike, much more like Walas’ previous project in the form of Ewoks in Star Wars’ Return of the Jedi.
At its core, Gremlins is a story about consequences and responsibilities. The film follows Billy Peltzer (Zach Galligan), who receives a mysterious little creature named Gizmo (Howie Mandel) as a Christmas gift from his father. Gizmo carefully comes with three very important rules: don’t get him wet, don’t feed him after midnight, and keep him away from bright light. Inevitably, the rules are broken, and things spiral out of control after Gizmo ungently reproduces a few mischievous offspring. The simple premise gives way to an unfolding series of hilarious and horrific events throughout the film.
Perhaps what distinguishes Gremlins from other films is how adeptly it balances humor and horror. The gremlins (also known as mogwai), each with their own quirks and personalities, provide delightful entertainment in the playful moments, while frightening moments genuinely scare. The writing and directing demonstrate ingenuity especially with balancing humor and horror. Dante’s slapstick comic approach, on top of the genuine scares, makes Gremlins a sensational experience even decades after its release.
The film has levels of meaning from themes and messages as well. The film embodies the consequences of human action, and the importance of accepting responsibility. The rules for looking after Gizmo are even more than a plot device — they symbolize boundaries that need to be respected and what going too far can represent. The chaotic fallout of what happens when boundaries about Gizmo are stretched beyond what they should be is a reflection of reckless interactions within human activity and the community.
Furthermore, Gremlins provides social commentary on consumerism and the holiday season. Centered around Christmas, the film chastises the commercialization of the holiday, and the superficiality of gift giving. The film captures the juxtaposition of heartwarming, feel good Christmas scenes against the chaotic effect of gremlins against the spirit of giving, while also staying on message. The societal commentary elevates the film beyond traditional horror-comedy genre limitations.
The performances are yet another highlight. Zach Galligan’s performance as Billy Peltzer embodies a relatable and earnest touch to the everyman hero role, augmented by an overall grounded approach that solidifies the more outlandish aspects of the film. Likewise, Phoebe Cates playfully conveys her character, Kate Beringer, with a clever underlying sincerity, particularly as she recalls a personal tragedy in one of the film’s most pointed and hilarious dialogue about Christmas experience. Although this scene is tinted with dark comedy, it sows its own emotional presence within the narrative and helps ground the characters within the surreal experience.
The supporting characters such as Dick Miller’s Mr. Futterman as the lovable curmudgeon and Polly Holliday’s overreaching Mrs. Deagle play with humorously alternate presentational schema, exaggerated or laden; however, their performances, while smaller, feed the humor and satire all while either roundly filling their role to define the film, or represent an ongoing another moment of charm.
One more highlight in Gremlins goes to Jerry Goldsmith’s score; it fills a particularly musical capacity as well. The score ushers along witty and eerie cues that suit and engages the fun/scary nature of the film, further enhancing atmosphere and experience along with character performances further solidifying the film in classic family entertainment.
Considering this, it is evident that the film made its indelible mark on the genre. Its unique combination of humor and horror, practical effects and themes, mark it as a classic beloved by many. The film entertains and promotes critical thought, making it a noteworthy piece of cinema that resonates with new audiences today.
With Gremlins’ 40th anniversary, the film is undoubtedly continued to endure. Its unique charm, memorable characters, visual effects, and clever creative direction allows it to continuously stand the test of time. Whether one revisits this obligatory favorite or enjoys it for the first time, Gremlins provides an enjoyable cinema experience upon its anniversary screening, appearing just as compelling as four decades ago.
Gremlins is directed by Joe Dante and written by Chris Columbus. The film stars Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton, Frances Lee McCain, Dick Miller, Polly Holliday and more. Gremlins celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.
