

Movie spotlight
Cicada: I Was a Teenage Horror Movie!
In 1997, tweens with a VHS camera filmed a horror epic. 25 years later, they edited it—as a comedy. Soak in the gloriously glitchy VHS splendor of this remixed horror-comedy that is at once a bloody twist on vampire lore and an endearing portrait of filmmakers coming of "rage."
Insights
Plot Summary
This bizarre cult film, originally released in 1981, follows a group of young people who are drawn into a surreal and violent world. As they navigate a series of strange events and encounters, they find themselves transformed by a mysterious cicada-like creature, leading to increasingly nightmarish and darkly comedic situations. The narrative blends elements of horror, science fiction, and absurdist humor.
Critical Reception
Originally a very niche cult film, 'Cicada: I Was a Teenage Horror Movie!' gained a cult following over the years for its unique and often disturbing artistic style. While not widely reviewed by mainstream critics upon its initial release, later re-evaluations highlight its experimental nature and transgressive themes, appealing to fans of avant-garde and exploitation cinema. Audience reception remains divided due to its unconventional storytelling and graphic content.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its unique, dreamlike, and often disturbing visual style.
Noted for its unconventional narrative and blend of horror and dark comedy.
Divided reception due to its extreme content and experimental approach.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Although the 2022 release is presented as a new film, 'Cicada: I Was a Teenage Horror Movie!' is actually a re-edited and re-dubbed version of the 1981 French exploitation film 'Cicada' (also known as 'Les Aventures de P'tit Jacques'). René Viénet, the director, was known for his avant-garde and often controversial films.
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