You can't get enough when it comes to 'The Stuff'

June 20, 10:42 PMAtlanta Indie Movie ExaminerTeresa Alvarez

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Forget "The Blob" (both original and remake), "The Stuff" is far tastier and entertaining than most B-horror movies from the 1980s.

Written and directed by Larry Cohen ("It's Alive"), The Stuff is an edible substance created from the earth that is reminiscent to ice cream. It's calorie-free, delicious, and addicting - who could ask for more, right? It turns out this sinless treat is deceptive to the consumers' eye leaving them brainwashed to the point of death! (Is this corny enough for you? That's how the film is.) This consumer sensation catches the attention of industrial saboteur David "Mo" Rutherford (Michael Moriarty), because when people give him money, he always want mo' (drum beat). It also catches the attention of Jason (Scott Bloom), who realizes his family becomes more dependent on this ice cream substitute. They both act with the attractive advertising executive behind The Stuff, Nicole (Andrea Marcovicci), who tries to uncover the conspiracy behind the product. They finally head to Atlanta, Ga. (for real) where they meet up with Col. Spears (Paul Sorvino) trying to stop the ever-growing substance before it's too late.

Apart from the cheesiness of ice cream acting as "The Blob," "The Stuff" is surprisingly attention-grabbing from start to finish. The story itself is relevant to this day in an age where society is driven by advertising and crazes (i.e. Facebook, iPhone, organic food). The acting is quite decent even though the budget was just below $2 million. The dialog is just as captivating with tiny quips that leave you giggling. The "horrific" special effects seen are pretty much laughable, but still make you cringe when someone's face is deteriorating from a close-up angle.

In short, this movie is recommended for fans of this genre. If you find yourself being more of the squeamish type, this is approved to be watchable from a film enthusiast who is a bit squeamish of horror films herself. This is very much a fun popcorn movie and even a good recommendation for a date night at home. 

Photo courtesy of Flickr