PopHorror Let's Get Scared
Fellow cabin dwellers, gather around the campfire because it’s time to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the cinematic masterpiece that is Cabin Fever.
Eli Roth’s directorial debut, Cabin Fever, set the stage for his later work in the genre, and it’s no surprise that he’s become a prominent figure in the horror scene. This movie is a masterclass in turning a limited budget into a memorable experience. It’s gritty, it’s gory, and it’s utterly unapologetic about it.
This horror gem, unleashed upon the world in 2003, is a testament to the enduring power of low-budget creativity and over-the-top gore. So, grab your marshmallows, and let’s dive into this horror flick that’s aged like a fine wine. Or maybe more like a jug of expired milk.
But first, let’s see that poster art:
Cabin Fever stars Rider Strong (Tooth and Nail – 2007) as Paul, Jordan Ladd (Deathproof – 2007) as Karen, James DeBello (Swimfan – 2002) as Bert, Cerina Vincent (Tales of Halloween – 2015) as Marcy, and Joey Kern (Bloodsucking Bastards – 2015) as Jeff. Co-written by Roth (Hostel – 2005) and Randy Pearlstein (Cabin Fever – 2016), Cabin Fever was released September 12th, 2003 in the United States and was a box office hit grossing $30.6 million on a $1.5 million budget.
Synopsis:
A group of friends whose fun cabin getaway turns into a nightmare when they encounter a deadly flesh-eating virus. Hilarity and horror ensue as they try to survive the ordeal.
The Setup
Our story begins with the quintessential group of college students taking a break from the rigors of higher education. They’re heading to a remote cabin in the woods because, well, that’s what you do when you’re young and foolish. The gang includes Rider Strong (yes, that’s his real name) as Paul, who you may remember from his Boy Meets World days, and Jordan Ladd as Karen, who had previously graced us with her presence in Never Been Kissed. Oh, and let’s not forget Joey Kern as Jeff, who, well, you might not remember at all.
As our protagonists settle into their cabin, we’re treated to some witty banter and not-so-subtle flirting. Mastermind Roth takes this time to establish the characters and their relationships. But fear not, horror aficionados, for the tension is slowly simmering beneath the surface.
Their idyllic weekend getaway takes a turn for the bizarre when a strange hermit enters the scene, warning them about a flesh-eating virus. Naturally, they ignore the guy, but soon enough the horror begins as one of the group starts showing symptoms. It’s like your worst case of the flu but with a dash of homicidal tendencies. The stage is set for a truly gruesome and hilarious descent into madness.
The Payoff
Now, when it comes to gore, Cabin Fever doesn’t hold back. It’s like a bloodbath buffet that serves up some of the most cringe-worthy, stomach-churning moments in horror history. Director Roth brings us scenes that make you question both your life choices and your ability to keep your lunch down. To say this film is drenched in blood would be an understatement; it’s practically marinated in it.
The gore in this movie is cranked up to eleven. We’re talking flesh-peeling, blood-spurting, and cringe-inducing body horror that rivals the goriest of classics. It’s as if Roth took a cue from a medical textbook on graphic injuries and decided to recreate them in excruciating detail. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s certainly for those who appreciate practical effects and gallons of fake blood.
“That guy asked us for help. We lit him on fire. You’ll understand if I’m not in a particularly social mood.” – Karen
But it’s not just the gore that makes Cabin Fever a cult classic. It’s the way it balances horror and humor with the finesse of a chainsaw-wielding circus clown. The characters’ reactions to the unfolding nightmare are as absurd as they are relatable. There’s something oddly comforting about watching people lose their minds in the face of impending doom, especially when it’s served with a side of witty one-liners.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on Cabin Fever turning 20, it’s clear that this film has earned its place in the annals of horror history. It’s a rollercoaster of blood-soaked absurdity that leaves you simultaneously horrified and doubled over in laughter. Rider Strong and Company may not have all the acting chops in the world, but their performances are perfect for the tone of the film.
In conclusion, Cabin Fever may not be the most highbrow horror film ever made, but it’s a wild ride that has aged like a fine bottle of wine… if that wine were actually a flesh-eating virus. It’s a gleefully gruesome romp through the woods that will make you question your choice of vacation destination. So, here’s to 20 years of terror and laughter. Long live Cabin Fever!
Check out the OG trailer below!
