Bubba Ho-Tep

Director: Don Coscarelli (Phantasm I through IV, Survival Quest)
Cast: Bruce Campbell, Ossie Davis, Ella Joyce, Bob Ivy
USA, 2002

Seen: April 8th thanks to Rogers Direct

Reason to see: I've wanted to see this ever since I saw the publicity shot for it in the 2002 Toronto International Film Festival. I had a ticket to see the Midnight Madness showing but alas, I realized I didn't really have a way to get home after it! Also, its on my List of 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen.

Unfortunately I was dissapointed. Very early on there were comments that were, hmm, lets just say very "male oriented" that I did not appreciate and that turned me off the film. I also found them to be unnecessary to the film as well. Either it was thought that women would not be watching this or they just didn't care how the comments would come across.

That being said, there were some enjoyable moments in the film and when things actually started to happen it did work well. Its pretty off the wall and far fetched, but that was intentional and it works. I found there was also a sort of side commentary on sadness and loneliness but being around other people, as well as a 'what can you contribute' theme. Not heavy handed, and I'm not all sure if it was serious but I thought that was valueable.

I had hoped I would have enjoyed it more, but I left with it as my favorite part as being what I started with, being the poster. I wish I could share the image with you , but I can't seem to find it online in the format I am looking for.

Shannon's Overall View:
I wish I had liked it
I don't plan on watching it again
I would recommend it to people who don't mind sexist/crude sexual commentary or content who like offbeat horror films

Return to Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2006