Pieces [VHS] - Classic Horror Movie for Collectors & Film Enthusiasts - Perfect for Halloween Movie Nights & Retro Film Screenings

PIECES has a sleazy trashy type feel that isn't present in most slashers at the time; It's much sleazier than the stuff like THE BURNING, FINAL EXAM, the FRIDAY THE 13TH films, and other 80s slashers like that. Some of the script could have been better because some of the dialogue and plot needs an improvement, and the bad dubbing may annoy mainstream horror fans. However, it isn't a film that is meant to be critically analyzed. It begins quickly with graphic gore, but it does have a tendency to slow up a bit later on; however, most of the film moves at a decent pace. It does have a chainsaw killer, but that doesn't necessarily mean that all fans of THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE will enjoy this film; this is much sleazier and gorier, and it also lacks the suspense, character development, atmosphere, and scenery of that film. There's full nudity in this film, and the body count is pretty good; and even though they didn't have FX artists like Tom Savini, the low budget gore is convincing and effective. The gore here is sometimes very graphic, as well as being quite impactful. It also should be noted that despite having college kids being butchered all around campus, this is all supposed to be a secret to virtually everyone in the entire state. The script is indeed awful in some parts, but it's fun. The entire film has a dark tone, so it's recommended for those who like serious horror movies. I know some people may criticize the absurd ending, but I think it's perfect for such an absurd film, and it also left the door open for what could've been a great sequel. I also thought it was very well scored and this certainly helps it.As many horror fans already know, Juan Piquer Simon died in 2011 from cancer. He also directed two other films that I really like. One is called SLUGS and the other is CTHULHU MANSION. THE CTHULHU MANSION seems to have fallen into obscurity. I personally really liked that one and it needs a DVD release. I know some people won't like, it but I think it's a underrated film of his that doesn't get enough credit. As for this DVD set, It's a superb package with excellent bonus features and the film looks great. The best extra is where you get to watch the film with an audio track playing that lets you hear the reactions of an audience that was watching a theater screening of the film. There's also an option to watch another audio version of the film with some different music. The soundtracks in this version aren't as good, and I think watching it this way damages the films intensity; but some may actually like it more, so it gives the viewer another option on how to watch it which is good. The DVD menu screens are also well done, and you get an interview with the director.