Anthropophagous

Anthropophagous is a 1980 horror film that marks a unique and gore-heavy venture in the canon of Italian horror cinema. Directed by Joe D'Amato, a filmmaker known for his efficient and varied oeuvre, the film is notorious for its visceral depiction of cannibalism, word deriving from the Greek Anthropos (human being) and phagein (to eat). A well-known film among gorehounds and exploitation enthusiasts, it is a treat for viewers with a taste for atmospheric, graphic and macabre storytelling that lingers long after initial viewing.

The film sets sail with an ensemble cast of characters who take a blissful boat trip to a lovely Greek island. The eclectic mix of tourists includes a pregnant woman, a middle-aged couple, a psychic, and several young adults – each with their own reasons and ambitions for the vacation. As often happens in horror film, the idyllic location takes a turn for the dreadful when the group finds the place eerily empty and void of life.

As they dig deeper into the mystery of the missing inhabitants, they come across a rotting mansion, hidden secrets and unsettling clues that send shivers down the spine. The plot takes a visceral turn when it becomes apparent that a savage and bloodthirsty predator, living in the shadows, is targeting them.

Joe D'Amato’s direction maintains a steadily paced and tense narrative, capitalizing on the isolation and desolation of the setting. The beauty of the Mediterranean island sharply contrasts with the unseemly happenings, building an atmosphere of dread and anticipation. The film provides an engaging setting for its characters, detaching them from civilization and driving them into the jaws of fear itself.

As the narrative unfolds, the viewers are introduced to the film’s antagonist: a gruesome creature known as the Anthropophagous Beast, portrayed by George Eastman, an actor with great physical presence. Eastman’s performance is marked by his haunting expressions and his spine-chilling demeanor. The beast truly stands as a perverse symbol of carnage and ferocity – a noteworthy addition to the gallery of horror film antagonists.

Anthropophagous directly addresses primal fears of being hunted, killed, and devoured, confronting the audience with an onslaught of raw, unfiltered violence and gore. While it definitely raises eyebrows in its unabashed display of violence and blood, it is remarkable in how it aims to evoke shock and fear - not solely through the visuals, but also the essence of an unforgiving creature lurking in the darkness.

Musically, Anthropophagous features a starkly minimal score by Marcello Giombini. This score, with its sharp, dissonant melodies and chilling, atmospheric timbres, further deepens the frightening world of the film, providing an eerie counterpoint to the otherwise serene surroundings of the island.

The cinematography by Enrico Biribicchi tends to emphasize the contrast between the tranquil island landscape and the morbid terror lurking within it. The daylight scenes portray the astonishing natural beauty, whereas the interior, night scenes, and underground sequences feature high-contrast, low-key lighting emphasizing a feeling of claustrophobia and fear.

The movie’s infamous reputation among horror fans may be attributed to the gruesome special effects which are realistically hard-hitting and leave little to the imagination. They are certainly not for the fainthearted and the film is often considered one of the most brutal and gory in Italian cinema. Its no-holds-barred approach to grotesque visuals has led to its banning in several countries.

In conclusion, Anthropophagous is an exploration into the macabre and the gruesome corners of human nature. Despite being steeped in controversy due to its extreme portrayal of violence, it stands out as a distinctive and memorable entry in the world of horror cinema. For fans of the genre willing to endure its grim tone and graphic visuals, it promises a challenging but compelling experience. Regardless of how one might feel about such horror films, Anthropophagous' cultural impact and enduring legacy in the genre is undeniable. The film remains a unique and iconic specimen of 1980s Italian horror cinema.