The Prowler (Joseph Zito, 1981, USA)

The Prowler is noteworthy for being one of the more distinctive slashers in the first wave of the genre following the immense success of Halloween. Directed by Joseph Zito (who would later distinguish himself as a filmmaker associated with action films featuring the likes of Chuck Norris), The Prowler centers on a spurned WWII veteran who goes on a killing spree at a college dance. Set in California though filmed in New Jersey, the film is noteworthy for a few reasons.

The centerpiece of the film is the special effects work by Tom Savini, who was just coming off his successful collaboration with George Romero as well as the film Maniac. Savini's work here alone makes the movie worth watching, and, remarkably, the film was able to be released with the amount of gore present. Many of the scenes push the boundaries of what is acceptable even now, so, curiously, censors did not push back harder on them. But given that the film was not associated with a major studio, it is likely that it was given a pass in this regard.

The film is also noticeable for featuring the acting talents of two figures of old Hollywood - Lawrence Tierney (who would later have a career resurrection in Quentin Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs) and Farley Granger (perhaps best known for his collaborations with Alfred Hitchcock). Joao Fernandes, one of the great cinematographers of the era, gives the film a glossy, soft focus quality that lends to the film's overall dreamlike quality. While the acting in the film is nothing to write home about, The Prowler is certainly a worthwhile entry into the slasher genre and one that is distinct enough to stay in the memory. While not a masterpiece, it is worthy of the cult reputation it has received over the years.

7/10