Critters 3 (1991) Movie Review: Tiny Terrors in the Big City
“Critters 3,” released in 1991, is the third installment in the cult-favorite “Critters” franchise. Directed by Kristine Peterson, this science fiction horror comedy film stars Aimee Brooks, John Calvin, and a young Leonardo DiCaprio in one of his earliest roles. Known for its blend of humor and horror, “Critters 3” brings the series’ mischievous extraterrestrial creatures to an urban setting, offering a fresh take on the critter chaos.
Plot Summary
The film begins with a family—Annie (Aimee Brooks), her younger brother Johnny (Christian Cousins), and their father Clifford (John Calvin)—on a road trip. They stop at a rest area where they encounter Charlie McFadden (Don Keith Opper), who warns them about the dangerous Critters. Unbeknownst to them, the Critters stow away in their vehicle, eventually following them to their apartment building in Los Angeles.
Once in the city, the Critters wreak havoc on the unsuspecting residents of the apartment building. Annie, Johnny, and their neighbors must band together to survive the onslaught of the ravenous aliens. The film builds tension as the characters navigate the confined space of the building, fighting off the relentless Critters.
Cast and Performances
Aimee Brooks leads the cast as Annie, delivering a solid performance as a resourceful and determined protagonist. Brooks effectively portrays Annie’s bravery and quick thinking as she faces off against the tiny terrors. John Calvin as Clifford brings a grounded presence to the film, providing a sense of stability amidst the chaos.
One of the notable aspects of “Critters 3” is the early appearance of Leonardo DiCaprio as Josh, the stepson of the building’s landlord. Despite his young age, DiCaprio shows promise with a natural and engaging performance. His character adds an additional layer of complexity to the ensemble, hinting at the star power he would later achieve.
The supporting cast, including Don Keith Opper reprising his role as Charlie McFadden, delivers entertaining performances that contribute to the film’s comedic and horror elements. Opper’s character provides continuity with the previous films, grounding the story in the larger Critters universe.
Visuals and Direction
Director Kristine Peterson successfully brings the Critters into an urban environment, creating a claustrophobic and tense atmosphere within the apartment building. The practical effects and puppetry used to bring the Critters to life are a highlight of the film, maintaining the charm and creepiness of the creatures from the earlier movies.
The film’s visual style effectively contrasts the everyday setting of the apartment with the fantastical and terrifying presence of the Critters. The use of tight spaces and dim lighting enhances the suspense, making the encounters with the Critters more intense and unpredictable.
Themes and Style
“Critters 3” continues the franchise’s tradition of blending horror and comedy, using the absurdity of the situation to generate both laughs and scares. The film explores themes of survival, community, and the disruption of normalcy by extraordinary events. The characters’ need to work together to overcome the Critters emphasizes the importance of unity and resourcefulness in the face of danger.
The film’s style balances campy humor with genuine moments of tension, creating an entertaining and engaging experience. The Critters themselves are both menacing and amusing, with their mischievous behavior adding a layer of dark comedy to the horror.
Critical Reception
“Critters 3” received mixed reviews from critics. While some appreciated the film’s humor, practical effects, and the novelty of its urban setting, others felt that it did not quite capture the magic of the original. However, the film has gained a cult following over the years, particularly among fans of the franchise and those interested in seeing Leonardo DiCaprio’s early work.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the United States, “Critters 3” is available for streaming on several platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase in both SD and HD options.
- Apple TV: Users can rent or buy the film through the Apple TV app.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The movie can be rented or purchased and streamed on various devices.
- Vudu: Offers rental and purchase options, with the ability to watch in HDX.
Conclusion
“Critters 3” is a fun and entertaining entry in the beloved horror-comedy franchise. With its mix of humor, suspense, and practical effects, the film offers a fresh take on the Critters’ antics by bringing them into an urban setting. Strong performances, particularly from Aimee Brooks and a young Leonardo DiCaprio, add to the film’s charm.
The movie’s availability on various streaming platforms ensures that fans and newcomers alike can easily enjoy this quirky and engaging installment. Whether you’re a die-hard Critters fan, curious about early Leonardo DiCaprio roles, or simply in the mood for a campy horror-comedy, “Critters 3” delivers a satisfying blend of laughs and scares.
In summary, “Critters 3” is a delightful addition to the franchise that combines humor and horror in a new and exciting setting. Its memorable characters, practical effects, and unique premise make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
