Alligator

Prepare to plunge into the depths of aquatic horror with Alligator, a cult monster movie that resurfaces as a brilliantly scripted gem from B-movie maestro John Sayles. This urban legend, centered on the bizarre notion of baby alligators thriving in the dark underbelly of New York's sewers, has been resurrected with finesse and fright. Directed by Lewis Teague, the film succeeds in finding a place alongside Steven Spielberg's masterpiece Jaws. 

Robert Forster plays a haunted cop, David Madison, whose dark tale of lost partners seems to repeat itself when his latest sidekick meets a grisly fate in the jaws of a gigantic predator. The charismatic Henry Silva makes a captivating appearance as the great hunter charged with tracking down the monstrous alligator, adding another layer of intrigue to the mounting tension.

Sayles' script, true to his style, reveals a corrupt establishment conspiracy as the source of the horror. The monstrous creature seeks revenge on the venal individuals responsible for its gigantism, be they animal kidnappers or crooked pharmaceutical tycoons. As the film builds to a crescendo of suspense, it deftly weaves in references, from sewer graffiti reminiscent of The Third Man to playful nods to classic TV characters.

Black humor is not absent from this film, and comes into its own during a chaotic wedding reception, where the alligator crashes the party with a carnivorous frenzy, making the groom an unforgettable snack. Amidst the chaos, the film dares to deliver chills and laughs, while exploring themes of corruption and natural justice in a world gone wrong.

Alligator thrives on its characters, brought to life by an ensemble of committed actors. Robert Forster's performance as the tormented cop adds a layer of emotional depth to an otherwise creature-centric narrative. His chemistry with Robin Riker's herpetologist Marisa Kendall lends the film a touch of romance and vulnerability that contrasts with the monstrous chaos below.

Visually, the film takes its cue from B-movies, with impressive practical effects and inventive shots of the alligator on the rampage. The direction of Lewis Teague (Cujo (1983), Cat's Summer (1985), Navy Seals (1990)...) imbues the film with a sense of urgency, never allowing the narrative to stagnate despite its episodic structure.

While Alligator is unafraid of its creature feature essence, it is rooted in its commitment to storytelling and character development. As audiences descend into the murky depths of the sewers, they witness a blend of horror, humor and social commentary that remains engaging and captivating.

Alligator is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-made monster movies. With a polished screenplay by John Sayles, memorable performances and undeniable retro charm, this film proves to be a beloved classic that leaves viewers both shocked and amused. So dive into the city's underbelly and let Alligator unleash its jaws of suspense and satire, especially as it's coming to the big screen as part of London's Frightfest festival later this month. 

Alligator
Directed by Lewis Teague
Screenplay by John Sayles
Story by John Sayles, Frank Ray Perilli
Produced by Brandon Chase
Starring Robert Forster, Robin Riker, Michael V. Gazzo
Cinematography : Joseph Mangine
Edited by Larry Bock, Ron Medico
Music by Craig Hundley
Production company : Group 1 Films, 
Distributed by Group 1 Films (United States)
Release dates : November 14, 1980 (LA), June 5, 1981 (NYC)
Running time : 91 minutes

Viewed August 14, 2023 (Frigthfest press screener)

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