Synopsis- A serial killer, known as The Breather, kills every student in a high school who indulges in sex. But after being at every crime scene, Toby, a chaste student, vows to catch the killer.
Director- Mickey Rose
Cast- Kristen Riter, Jerry Belson, Matthew Goldsby
Released- 1981
Before Scary Movie (2000) or A Haunted House (2013), we had Student Bodies a slasher parody film that attempted to satirize the tropes of the horror genre, specifically those found in the “slasher” films that were popular at the time. While it has moments of clever humour and a few laughs, the overall execution falls flat, resulting in a mediocre cinematic experience.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its self-awareness, as it takes a tongue-in-cheek approach to the clichés associated with slasher films. The use of a narrator to poke fun at the genre’s conventions adds a comedic element, and there are instances where the film successfully subverts expectations. However, the humour is inconsistent, with some jokes feeling forced and others relying too heavily on overused gags.
The characters in “Student Bodies” lack depth and are essentially caricatures of typical horror movie archetypes. While this might be intentional as part of the parody, it erodes the audience’s ability to connect with or invest in the fate of these characters, especially their survival, a crucial element in any horror or slasher film.
The film’s plot, revolving around a killer targeting sexually active teenagers, is a blatant parody of the slasher formula. Unfortunately, the narrative struggles to maintain coherence and often feels disjointed. The attempts at humour sometimes undermine the plot, creating a sense of inconsistency that hinders the overall viewing experience.
The production values of “Student Bodies” are reflective of its low-budget origins. While some may appreciate the nostalgic charm of practical effects and low-fi filmmaking, others might find the lacklustre cinematography and dated visuals a hindrance to their enjoyment. The film’s technical shortcomings are forgivable to a certain extent, given its limited resources, but they still contribute to an overall lack of polish.
One area where “Student Bodies” does shine is in its soundtrack. The film incorporates a quirky score that complements its comedic tone and enhances certain scenes. The music adds a layer of entertainment value that the rest of the film struggles to consistently deliver.
It’s worth noting that the appeal of “Student Bodies” may be influenced by one’s familiarity with the slasher genre. Viewers well-versed in the tropes and conventions of classic horror films from the late ’70s and early ’80s may find more enjoyment in the film’s attempts at parody. However, for those of us watching the film for the first time today, the humour may come across as too niche or dated.
In conclusion, “Student Bodies” offers sporadic moments of amusement through its satirical take on slasher film clichés. However, its inconsistent humour, shallow characters, and disjointed plot prevent it from achieving the level of comedic brilliance found in more successful genre parodies. While it may hold nostalgic value for some, it falls short of being a standout entry in the realm of horror-comedy. “Student Bodies” is a middling attempt at satire that may leave viewers with a few chuckles but ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression.
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