Imagine a small town, peaceful and idyllic, until the arrival of a tiny menace that would send shivers down your spine: killer cockroaches.
In “The Night of the Killer Cockroaches,” a terrifying sci-fi horror film, the battle for survival unfolds, leaving the town’s residents fighting for their lives.
Get ready for a spine-tingling journey into the darkest depths of fear and scientific experimentation gone horribly wrong.
the night of the killer cockroaches
The Night of the Killer Cockroaches is a 1988 American science-fiction horror film directed by Terence H.
Winkless.
The movie centers around a small New England town that becomes infested with genetically engineered killer cockroaches.
The local sheriff, Richard Tarbell, teams up with his former girlfriend, Elizabeth Johnson, and pest control agent, Dr.
Morgan Hubbard, to combat the carnivorous insects.
The film received mixed reviews from critics and was released on DVD and Blu-ray in subsequent years.
Key Points:
- “The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” is a 1988 American science-fiction horror film directed by Terence H. Winkless.
- The film is set in a small New England town that is plagued by genetically engineered killer cockroaches.
- The local sheriff, Richard Tarbell, joins forces with his ex-girlfriend, Elizabeth Johnson, and pest control agent, Dr. Morgan Hubbard, to battle the carnivorous insects.
- “The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” received a mix of positive and negative reviews from critics.
- The film was released on DVD and Blu-ray in subsequent years.
- Overall, the movie combines science fiction, horror, and action elements to tell the story of a town under attack by deadly cockroaches.
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💡 Did You Know?
1. While cockroaches are commonly known for their ability to survive without a head for several days, one interesting fact is that they can actually live without their heads for up to a week. Their open circulatory system allows them to breathe through small openings on their body, even after decapitation.
2. The world’s largest species of cockroach is the Megaloblatta longipennis, which can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. This giant bug is primarily found in Central and South America and prefers forested areas.
3. Cockroaches have been around for approximately 300 million years, making them some of the oldest insects on Earth. They have survived multiple mass extinctions and have remained relatively unchanged throughout their long evolutionary history.
4. In traditional Chinese medicine, dried cockroaches have been used for centuries to treat various ailments and promote healing. They are believed to have medicinal properties, particularly in the treatment of wounds and ulcers.
5. Contrary to popular belief, cockroaches are not necessarily associated with dirty or unsanitary environments. While they can be found in unclean areas, cockroaches are highly adaptable and can also infest clean and well-maintained spaces. This ability to thrive in different conditions contributes to their remarkable resilience as pests.
Film Background
“The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” is a 1988 American science-fiction horror film directed by Terence H. Winkless. It is based on the 1980 novel “The Nest” by Eli Cantor and written by Robert King. Julie Corman produced the movie, which stars Robert Lansing, Lisa Langlois, Franc Luz, and Terri Treas.
Set in a small New England town, the story focuses on a horrifying situation where genetically engineered killer cockroaches take over the area. Released on May 13, 1988, the film received mixed reviews from critics.
Plot Summary
“The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” is a gripping story set in a small New England town that becomes overrun by genetically engineered killer cockroaches. The narrative revolves around the efforts of local sheriff Richard Tarbell, his former girlfriend Elizabeth Johnson, and pest control agent Dr. Morgan Hubbard to combat the menacing insects. As the town grapples with the increasing infestation, strange occurrences, such as damaged book bindings in the local library and dogs being reduced to bloody carcasses, add to the sense of urgency.
In their mission to trap and exterminate the killer cockroaches, Dr. Hubbard resorts to using a live cat as bait, only to witness the grotesque sight of the cockroaches devouring the hapless feline. Simultaneously, Elizabeth finds herself in the midst of the chaos at a local diner, where the pest control agent attempts to eliminate the multiplying cockroaches. However, the situation takes a turn for the worse when Dr. Hubbard discovers that these cockroaches can reproduce asexually and ends up getting injured by their bites.
Undeterred by setbacks, Dr. Hubbard tries to eradicate the cockroaches using rotenone, but soon realizes that the lethal dosage for the insects is also perilous for humans. Despite this obstacle, she successfully convinces the town mayor not to evacuate the island. Complicating matters further, Richard Tarbell uncovers Dr. Hubbard’s past involvement in illegal experiments during her time at MIT.
Amidst the chaos, Elizabeth uncovers equipment belonging to INTEC, the corporation that struck a deal with the mayor for island development. Richard confronts the mayor about this discovery, leading to his resignation as sheriff. As tension rises, the killer cockroaches continue to attack and claim more lives, including an employee at the local diner and Richard’s friend Jake.
The film reaches its climax when Richard and Elizabeth stumble upon a horrifying scene: a swarm of cockroaches inhabiting Richard’s bathroom toilet, while the local librarian falls victim to an attack in her own bed. Finally, the mayor contacts a representative at INTEC, demanding swift action against the cockroaches and issuing a stern warning about the repercussions if no action is taken.
Improvements:
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Main Characters
- Sheriff Richard Tarbell (played by Robert Lansing): The local sheriff who takes charge of fighting the killer cockroach infestation.
- Elizabeth Johnson (played by Lisa Langlois): Richard’s former girlfriend and a key ally in the battle against the cockroaches.
- Dr. Morgan Hubbard (played by Terri Treas): A pest control agent who uncovers crucial information about the genetically engineered cockroaches.
- Homer (played by Franc Luz): A pest control agent involved in the extermination efforts in the town.
Discoveries And Experiments
During the course of the film, several discoveries and experiments unfold. Dr. Morgan Hubbard is instrumental in uncovering unsettling truths about the killer cockroaches. She discovers that they can reproduce asexually, a factor that contributes to their rapid spread. Additionally, she attempts to eliminate the roaches using rotenone, only to find that the dose lethal to insects is also deadly to humans.
Dr. Hubbard’s experiments shed light on the extent of the cockroaches’ threat and the difficulties involved in combatting them. These discoveries heighten the sense of impending danger and maintain a constant tension throughout the film.
- Killer cockroaches can reproduce asexually, contributing to their rapid spread
- Using rotenone to eliminate the roaches proved deadly to both insects and humans.
“Dr. Hubbard’s experiments shed light on the extent of the cockroaches’ threat and the difficulties involved in combatting them.”
Rising Tensions And Threats
As the film progresses, tensions rise and threats escalate. The initially isolated incidents of damaged book bindings and mutilated animals intensify, culminating in the deaths of several characters. The roaches become more aggressive and brazen, attacking and killing humans. These escalating threats create an overwhelming sense of dread and danger for the remaining inhabitants of the small New England town.
Release And Reception
“The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” was released on May 13, 1988, and produced by Concorde Pictures. The film received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film for its effective horror and suspense, others criticized elements such as the special effects. Lead actress Lisa Langlois openly expressed her disdain for the movie poster, which depicted a woman in underwear being ravaged by a giant cockroach.
Key points:
- Release date: May 13, 1988
- Produced by Concorde Pictures
- Reviews: Mixed opinions
- Positive feedback: Effective horror and suspense
- Negative feedback: Special effects criticized
- Actress’s opinion: Disdain for the movie poster
“The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” was released on May 13, 1988, and produced by Concorde Pictures. The film received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the film for its effective horror and suspense, others criticized elements such as the special effects. Lead actress Lisa Langlois openly expressed her disdain for the movie poster, which depicted a woman in underwear being ravaged by a giant cockroach.
Behind-The-Scenes Facts
During the production of “The Night of the Killer Cockroaches,” the filmmakers employed around 2,000 flying cockroaches for various scenes. The use of real cockroaches added an extra layer of authenticity to the horror depicted on screen. However, it also posed challenges and required careful handling to ensure the safety of the cast and crew.
- The filmmakers utilized approximately 2,000 flying cockroaches to enhance the authenticity of the horror scenes in “The Night of the Killer Cockroaches.”
- The inclusion of real cockroaches brought an added sense of realism to the terrifying portrayal on screen.
- Ensuring the safety of the cast and crew during the use of live cockroaches required meticulous handling and precautionary measures.
Home Video Releases
“The Night of the Killer Cockroaches” was originally released in 1989 on VHS by MGM/UA Home Video. It gained popularity and was later released on DVD in 2001 by New Concorde Home Entertainment. In 2013, a combo pack of the film was re-released on Blu-ray and DVD by Scream Factory. These home video releases offer fans the opportunity to enjoy the horrifying experience of the killer cockroaches from the comfort of their own homes.
- Initially released on VHS in 1989 by MGM/UA Home Video
- Later released on DVD in 2001 by New Concorde Home Entertainment
- Re-released as a Blu-ray and DVD combo pack in 2013 by Scream Factory
“These home video releases allow fans of the film to experience the terror of the killer cockroaches from the comfort of their own homes.”
FAQ
Is there a horror movie about cockroaches?
Yes, there is a horror movie centered around the theme of cockroaches titled “Infestation”. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, this nail-biting film explores the terrifying consequences of a failed military experiment. Accidentally released genetically modified cockroaches breed rapidly and develop predatory behavior, creating a nightmarish scenario for a group of survivors as they battle not only these resilient insects but also their own inner fears and desperation for survival. “Infestation” effectively taps into our inherent aversion to these common pests, turning them into formidable adversaries that consistently keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
Is the nest on Netflix good?
“The Nest” on Netflix is an impressive portrayal of an era known for its extravagance, thanks to Durkin’s meticulous and restrained direction. The film beautifully captures the essence of this period, drawing viewers into a world filled with opulence and excess. With a rating of 4/5, it is evident that the film has garnered positive acclaim from critics, further affirming its quality and worthiness of watching on Netflix.
Is the nest a horror movie?
“The Nest” is not your typical horror movie. Released in 1988, it takes a unique approach to the genre by blending elements of horror, science fiction, and creature features. Set in a small seaside town, the film revolves around a mutant breed of killer cockroaches that terrorize the local community. While it may have its share of suspense and scares, “The Nest” stands out for its campy charm and inventive creature effects. It’s a nostalgic trip back to the horror movies of the ’80s, offering a fun and slightly cheesy experience for fans of the genre.
What is so scary about cockroaches?
Cockroaches evoke fear and unease due to their physical features and resilience that surpasses time and disaster. With their large, slick bodies and preference for damp corners, they embody the essence of horror within our homes. The mere sight of them scuttling in the dark triggers a deep aversion within most of us. Adding to their terrifying reputation is their ancient lineage, dating back to the age of dinosaurs. This longevity and ability to adapt to various environments make them seemingly indestructible, raising concerns that they may even withstand the aftermath of a nuclear catastrophe. The notion of such relentless survival only amplifies the eerie nature of these creatures, cementing their status as genuinely scary pests.
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