‘Anthropophagus’ 4K UHD Review (88 Films)

Stars: Tisa Farrow, Saverio Vallone, George Eastman, Serena Grandi, Margaret Mazzantini, Mark Bodin, Bob Larson, Rubina Rey | Written by Joe D’Amato, George Eastman | Directed by Joe D’Amato

Anthropophagus, also known as The Grim Reaper, is a notorious Italian horror film directed by Joe D’Amato. The plot centres on a group of tourists who become stranded on a deserted island, only to discover that they are being hunted by a deranged, cannibalistic killer, played with ferocious intensity by George Eastman.

Anthropophagus is a film that has cemented its place in horror history not only for its content but also for the controversy it sparked. As a piece of cinema, it embodies the visceral, unflinching approach to horror that Italian filmmakers of the time were known for. The film’s atmosphere is one of relentless dread, enhanced by its hauntingly desolate island setting and a sparse, eerie score that lingers in the viewer’s mind long after the credits roll.

The notoriety of Anthropophagus is largely due to its graphic content, which includes scenes of extreme violence and gore. One of the most infamous scenes involves the killer tearing a fetus from a pregnant woman and consuming it—an image that shocked audiences and censors alike. This scene, along with others, led to the film being branded as one of the “video nasties” in the UK during the early 1980s, resulting in it being banned and seized from video stores. This controversy only heightened the film’s infamy, drawing the curiosity of horror enthusiasts who sought out bootleg copies to witness what had been deemed too extreme for public consumption.

From a cinematic standpoint, Anthropophagus is a mixed bag. Joe D’Amato’s direction is competent, creating a suffocating atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge. The performances, particularly by George Eastman as the titular cannibal, are surprisingly effective given the film’s exploitative nature. Eastman’s portrayal of the monster is chilling, his imposing physical presence and guttural growls adding a layer of genuine menace to the film.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The pacing can be sluggish, with long stretches of minimal action that may test the patience of modern viewers. The characters are thinly developed, serving more as fodder for the killer than as fully realized individuals. The dialogue, often stilted and awkward, does little to elevate the narrative.

Despite its shortcomings, Anthropophagus holds a significant place in horror history. Its inclusion on the video nasties list has given it a cult status, making it a symbol of the era’s censorship battles and the ongoing debate over the limits of cinematic violence. For horror aficionados, the film is a must-see, a raw and unfiltered example of 1980s exploitation cinema.

Ultimately, Anthropophagus is a film that challenges and shocks, a relic from a time when horror dared to push boundaries and provoke outrage. While it may not be a masterpiece, its impact on the genre and its role in the video nasties controversy ensure its place in the annals of horror history. For those with a strong stomach and a curiosity about the darker corners of cinema, Anthropophagus offers an unforgettable, if unsettling, viewing experience.

Special Features:

• Brand new 4K Remaster from the Original 16mm Negatives
• Audio Commentary by Eugenio Ercolani and Nanni Cobretti
• Resurrecting the Monster – An Interview with Dario Germani
• The Sacrificial Lamb – An Interview with Zora Kerowa
• The Grim Reaper – An Interview with Luigo Montefiori
• Joe, The Monster and Me – An Archive Interview with Luigo Montefiori
• Deleted Scene with Introduction by Eugenio Ercolani
• Visual Essay by Eugenio Ercolani
• Anthropophagous Trailer
• The Savage Island Trailer
• Anthropophagous The Beast Trailer
• The Grim Reaper VHS Trailer
• Reversible sleeve featuring new art by Graham Humphreys and original Italian poster

**** 4/5

Anthropophagus is out now on 4K UHD from 88 Films.