Kargus
A series of vignettes is woven into a larger story in this first film to be written and directed by Juan Minon and Miguel A. Trujillo. A writer who works in a bookshop to earn a living meets a wealthy American named Kargus looking for talent to ensconce in his projected art colony in the Gilbert Islands. In order to convince the American to take him on as a good prospect, the writer promotes his own stories -- the vignettes seen in the film. One story is about a young man trying to impress his girlfriend with his new car, a car he indirectly borrowed from a rental agency. His efforts to hide the rental sign on top of the car lead to various comical posturings. Other vignettes are from the era of the Spanish Civil War, including one about two people trying to survive by hunting cats and killing them to sell to butchers. Another vignette shows pro-Franco activists eradicating anti-Franco graffiti in Madrid.
Insights
Plot Summary
A space shuttle mission goes terribly wrong when a mysterious alien entity, Kargus, boards the ship and begins to possess the crew. As paranoia and violence escalate, the remaining astronauts must fight for survival against both the alien and each other. Their mission of exploration quickly turns into a desperate struggle for escape from the clutches of the terrifying Kargus.
Critical Reception
Kargus received a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics praised its suspenseful atmosphere and creature design, others found the plot predictable and the special effects dated. Audiences were divided, with some appreciating the film's attempt at cosmic horror and others finding it lacking in originality.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and creature effects.
- Criticized for a formulaic plot and uninspired direction.
- Seen as a somewhat derivative entry in the sci-fi horror genre of the early 80s.
Google audience: Google user reviews are scarce for Kargus, but those available suggest a general sentiment of it being a forgettable B-movie with some interesting ideas that were not fully realized. The film is often remembered for its unique alien design, though its overall execution left much to be desired for many viewers.
Fun Fact
The creature design for Kargus was heavily inspired by H.R. Giger's biomechanical aesthetic, particularly his work on 'Alien', though on a significantly smaller budget.
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