Two doctors find their graveyard shift inundated with townspeople ravaged by sores. Among the wounded is Cherry Darling, a dancer whose leg was ripped from her body. As the invalids quickly become enraged aggressors, Cherry and her ex-boyfriend El Wray lead a team of accidental warriors into the night.
Planet Terror is a 2007 action-horror film directed by Robert Rodriguez, serving as the first half of the double feature Grindhouse, which also includes Quentin Tarantino’s Death Proof. The film pays homage to 1970s exploitation cinema, particularly zombie and grindhouse genres, by emulating the aesthetic and narrative style of that era.
Set in a small Texas town, the story begins with Cherry Darling (Rose McGowan), a go-go dancer who decides to leave her job and pursue a new path. Her plans are abruptly interrupted when a military experiment involving a biochemical agent known as DC2 goes awry, releasing a deadly gas that transforms the town’s residents into grotesque, zombie-like creatures referred to as sickos. As the infection spreads, Cherry loses her leg in a violent attack but survives, using a prosthetic leg equipped with a machine gun to fight back. She teams up with El Wray (Freddy Rodriguez), a mysterious ex-boyfriend and former soldier, along with other survivors, including a doctor and a sheriff, to combat the infected and uncover the sinister forces behind the outbreak.
Rodriguez’s direction is characterized by high-octane action sequences, over-the-top gore, and a campy sense of humor. The film’s visual style emulates the grainy, scratched look of old film reels, complete with faux trailers and missing reels, enhancing the nostalgic grindhouse experience. The narrative is fast-paced, with a focus on spectacle and entertainment over deep character development or complex plotting.
Main Themes in Planet Terror
- Nostalgia and Homage to Exploitation Cinema
Planet Terror is a love letter to the exploitation films of the 1970s. The directors intentionally incorporated elements such as grainy film stock, missing reels, and faux trailers to recreate the authentic grindhouse experience. This nostalgic approach appeals to fans of vintage cinema and serves as a tribute to a bygone era of filmmaking.
- Empowerment and Revenge
The film features strong female protagonists who confront and overcome male antagonists. In Planet Terror, Cherry Darling transforms into a formidable fighter, using her prosthetic leg as a weapon to seek vengeance against those who wronged her. This theme of empowerment and revenge highlights the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity.
- Violence and Gore as Artistic Expression
The film embraces graphic violence and gore, using it as a stylistic choice rather than for shock value. The exaggerated and stylized depiction of violence serves to entertain and engage the audience, reflecting the directors’ homage to the visceral and unrestrained nature of exploitation cinema.
- Subversion of Genre Tropes
Planet Terror plays with and subverts traditional genre conventions. While it adheres to certain exploitation film tropes, it also challenges audience expectations through unexpected plot twists and character developments. This subversion keeps the audience engaged and adds depth to the narrative.
Impact of Planet Terror
Upon its release, Planet Terror received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some praised its innovative approach and homage to exploitation cinema, others criticized its length and pacing. Despite this, the film has gained a cult following over the years, with many appreciating its unique style and the directors’ passion for the genre. The film’s influence is evident in subsequent works that blend homage with original storytelling, and it has sparked discussions about the preservation and appreciation of exploitation cinema.
7 Reasons to Watch Planet Terror
- Authentic Grindhouse Experience
Planet Terror offers a genuine recreation of the 1970s grindhouse theater experience. The inclusion of faux trailers, film scratches, and missing reels immerses viewers in the nostalgic atmosphere of exploitation cinema. This attention to detail provides a unique viewing experience that transports audiences back in time.
- Dynamic Direction by Robert Rodriguez
Rodriguez’s direction is characterized by high-octane action sequences, over-the-top gore, and a campy sense of humor. His unique style brings a fresh and entertaining perspective to the zombie genre, making Planet Terror a standout film in its category.
- Strong Female Protagonist
The film features a powerful female lead, Cherry Darling, who transforms from a go-go dancer into a formidable fighter. Her journey of empowerment and revenge is both engaging and inspiring, offering a refreshing perspective in genre filmmaking.
- Stylized Violence and Gore
For fans of horror and action genres, Planet Terror delivers stylized violence and gore that is both entertaining and artistically executed. The exaggerated and over-the-top nature of the violence pays homage to the exploitation films of the past, providing a visceral and thrilling experience.
- Cultural References and Homages
The film is rich with cultural references and homages to classic cinema. Eagle-eyed viewers can spot nods to various films and genres, adding depth and layers to the viewing experience. These references serve as a tribute to the filmmakers’ influences and the history of cinema.
- Innovative Cinematic Techniques
Planet Terror employs innovative cinematic techniques, including the use of film grain, scratches, and faux trailers, to create a unique visual style. These techniques enhance the nostalgic feel of the film and showcase the director’s creativity and technical prowess.
- Cult Following and Rewatch Value
Over the years, Planet Terror has developed a cult following, with many viewers appreciating its unique style and homage to exploitation cinema. The film’s layered storytelling, engaging action, and attention to detail make it a rewarding experience upon rewatching, as new nuances and references become apparent. The film’s playful and over-the-top nature ensures it remains entertaining, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre and newcomers alike.
How Will You Feel After Watching Planet Terror?
After watching Planet Terror, you will likely feel a rush of adrenaline and excitement. The film’s high-energy action, coupled with its over-the-top violence and gore, will leave you exhilarated and entertained. The film’s campy humor and nostalgic references to exploitation cinema will provide a sense of satisfaction for fans of the genre. You might also feel a sense of empowerment after witnessing Cherry Darling’s transformation from a vulnerable woman into a fierce and determined fighter. The film’s chaotic and unpredictable narrative will keep you on the edge of your seat, and its unique visual style will likely leave a lasting impression.
Moreover, the film’s unabashed embrace of genre conventions and its subversion of expectations may leave you reflecting on the ways it both celebrates and parodies the exploitation films of the past. You may feel a sense of nostalgia for the grindhouse cinema era, as well as a deep appreciation for the directors’ creativity in bringing that experience to modern audiences. Ultimately, Planet Terror is a film that leaves you feeling entertained, energized, and ready to explore more of the genre’s rich history.
