Roses Have Thoughts

Xtro is a film that gleefully breaks all the rules, taking a wild ride through the sci-fi horror genre. Directed by Harry Bromley Davenport, this British low-budget gem is a mix of grotesque body horror, surreal family drama, and an extra-terrestrial nightmare. It’s rough around the edges, but in its own chaotic way, it’s pretty brilliant.

The story kicks off with a straightforward premise: Sam (Sayer), a father who mysteriously disappeared, suddenly shows up three years later. But this isn’t your usual happy reunion. His wife Rachel (Stegers) and their young son Tony (Simon Nash) find it hard to accept him, especially as Sam starts acting more and more bizarrely. Soon, Tony develops strange powers, and their family dog turns into a chilling harbinger of doom.

What makes Xtro so unique is its audacity. It doesn’t just flirt with the weird, it dives headfirst into it. From a nightmarish alien birth scene that would make even Cronenberg squirm to a toy soldier that springs to life, this film is a chaotic blend of psychosexual horror and sci-fi discomfort. Yet beneath the rubbery special effects and jagged editing is a haunting commentary on a struggling family and a child’s yearning for stability.

Philip Sayer’s performance is a highlight, skilfully navigating between warmth and a menacing aura. Bernice Stegers is relatable as the weary mother trying to keep everything together, giving the film much of its emotional weight. Danny Brainin also puts in a solid performance as Rachel’s new boyfriend, caught in a situation that’s far beyond his grasp.

From a technical standpoint, Xtro shows its budgetary limitations, but that adds to its charm. The special effects, while crude, are disturbingly inventive and enhance the film’s unsettling vibe. The eerie synth-heavy score amplifies the surreal atmosphere, further immersing the audience in its world.

Though critics initially dismissed Xtro as mere exploitation, time has been kinder, and it’s earned a well-deserved cult following. It stands out not only for its shocking visuals but also for its unexpectedly sincere exploration of themes like grief and alienation.

Xtro isn’t polished, nor is it trying to be. For those who appreciate the unconventional, it’s a powerful reminder that low-budget horror can be both outrageous and strangely touching. It definitely deserves its four stars for sheer nerve and unforgettable weirdness.

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