The Fog (1980)

Introduction:

I’ve been catching up with John Carpenter’s movies lately and been enjoying them. This is one I somehow missed in my younger days. The only thing I know is that a remake was made and that Tom Servo mentioned it during the riffing of Pod People.

Summary:

The small town of Antonio Bay is gearing up to celebrate its founding. Little do they know that an ancient evil has awakened to take revenge. Soon the fog rolls in, and with it an undead menace terrorizes the town. Folks like Stevie Wayne (Adrienn Barbeau) and Nick Castle (Tom Atkins) do their best to escape the town with anyone they can grab along the way. But Father Malone (Hal Holbrook) may know more than he is letting on. Once the fog clears will there be any survivors, or has doom truly come to Antonio Bay?

Good Points:

• Great atmosphere and build up
• Solid performances by the ensemble cast
• Has some good scares along the way

Bad Points:

• Not a fast paced film at all
• Anyone looking for gore will be disappointed
• The overall concept may not click for some viewers

Overall:

Carpenter goes for a more classic gothic style horror story and it works pretty well. You’ve got to be in the mood for a slow build up, as he sets up the characters and situation. But once the fog rolls in the chills and jumps come pretty regularly. It’s great for anyone looking for a classic style horror film with minimal gore.

Scores (out of 5)

Visuals: 4

Sound: 3

Acting: 3

Script: 4

Music: 3

Direction: 4

Entertainment: 4

Total:  4

Curious about a full review, sent me an email and I’ll make additional thoughts to this review.