The Burning

As my inaugural post, for a blog dedicated to all things vintage slasher, I could think of no better film choice to spotlight then---The Burning.  Not only does the film utilize the obligatory teenagers at a summer camp, sans Friday the 13th , but  how can one argue with a hedge clipper wielding burned and horribly disfigured villain named Cropsy?  The Burning is an underrated precursor to 80s Camp-Slasher, which inspired a host of more well-known films that followed, and is worth viewing if you’re a fan of old school 80s slashers.

Written by the great Harvey Weinstein of future Miramax fame, and featuring a talented cast including:  Jason Alexander of Seinfeld, who is hardly recognizable with a full head of hair, future Oscar winner Holly Hunter in very small role, Fisher Stevens of Short Circuit, and last but not least the gorgeous blonde Leah Ayres best known as Van Damme’s love interest in Blood Sport. The film also features special effects make-up by the great Tom Savini, and a score by Rick Wakeman.

Although the storyline of an abused and disfigured camper/caretaker seeking revenge against some attractive and promiscuous teenagers is not the least bit original; however, the film’s energy, brutality and special effects help elevate the film above others in the genre. Likewise, the music and atmospheric cinematography help The Burning standout from similar films of the era. Lastly, no spotlight or reference to the The Burning, would be complete without mentioning the mass-killing scene on the river raft, which is hall of fame worthy, 80s slasher film fare, and by all accounts got the film banned in the UK.

So if you're in the mood for a campy 80s slasher, be sure to check out the under appreciated-- The Burning.


--Lee Turner a life long fan and aficionado of slasher films.  His blog will spotlight those forgotten slasher films from the late 70s through the early 90s, as well as feature where are they now segments, remake news, and best of lists.  He also blogs for www.bizarrepetitions.com