The Little Shop of Horrors (1960) Movie Review: A Cult Classic of Dark Comedy and Horror
The Little Shop of Horrors (1960), directed by Roger Corman, is a delightful blend of dark comedy and horror that has become a cult classic over the decades. With its quirky premise, memorable characters, and unique charm, the film explores themes of ambition, love, and the often absurd lengths to which people will go to achieve their dreams. Featuring a standout performance by Jonathan Haze and a whimsical yet sinister plant that steals the show, this movie has secured its place in the annals of cinematic history. In this review, we’ll delve into the plot, character dynamics, the film’s distinctive style, and where to watch The Little Shop of Horrors online.
Overview of The Little Shop of Horrors (1960)
The film is set in a rundown flower shop in an unnamed urban location, run by the hapless Seymour Krelborn (Jonathan Haze). Seymour is a shy and awkward florist who works for Mr. Mushnik (Mel Welles), the owner of the shop. Despite his dedication, the shop is struggling to attract customers, and Mr. Mushnik is on the verge of closing it down. In a stroke of luck, Seymour discovers a mysterious plant that he names Audrey II, after his crush, Audrey (Jackie Joseph), who works in the shop and is involved with a violent dentist, Orin Scrivello (Steve Martin).
As Seymour cares for Audrey II, he realizes that the plant has a voracious appetite, thriving on blood rather than soil. Initially, the plant’s growth brings new business to the shop, attracting customers eager to see the exotic plant. However, Seymour soon discovers the horrifying implications of feeding the plant, leading him into a morally ambiguous spiral as he struggles to balance his dreams of success with the ethical dilemmas posed by Audrey II’s demands.
Plot Summary
The story begins with Seymour working in Mr. Mushnik’s flower shop, lamenting its poor sales. In a bid to attract customers, he unveils the peculiar Audrey II, a carnivorous plant he has found. As the plant grows, it becomes a local sensation, bringing newfound business and hope to the struggling shop. However, Seymour quickly realizes that the plant has a dark secret: it requires human blood to survive.
As Audrey II’s appetite grows, Seymour is faced with increasingly difficult choices. He begins by feeding the plant his own blood but soon resorts to more drastic measures, leading to a series of gruesome yet darkly comedic events. The plant’s popularity rises, and with it, Seymour’s fame, but the moral cost of his ambition becomes more pronounced.
Seymour’s personal life is equally complicated. His affection for Audrey leads him to confront her toxic relationship with the sadistic dentist, Orin Scrivello. In a series of darkly humorous encounters, Orin’s over-the-top personality and eventual demise contribute to the film’s quirky charm.
As the narrative unfolds, Seymour’s struggle with his conscience and the consequences of his choices culminate in a chaotic finale, with Audrey II growing ever larger and more menacing. The film blends humor and horror, leading to an ending that is both absurd and memorable.
Character Development
Jonathan Haze as Seymour Krelborn: Haze delivers a compelling performance as the timid yet ambitious Seymour. His character’s arc—from a meek florist to a desperate man driven by success—captures the essence of the film’s exploration of ambition and morality. Haze’s portrayal balances the character’s naivety with a sense of urgency, making Seymour a relatable and sympathetic protagonist.
Jackie Joseph as Audrey: Joseph shines as Audrey, the love interest who is both vulnerable and naive. Her character represents the traditional damsel in distress trope but is given depth through her interactions with Seymour and Orin. Audrey’s desire for a better life, despite her unfortunate circumstances, resonates with audiences, and her chemistry with Haze adds emotional weight to the story.
Steve Martin as Orin Scrivello: Martin’s performance as the sadistic dentist is one of the film’s highlights. His over-the-top portrayal of Orin is both hilarious and frightening, making him a memorable antagonist. Martin’s comedic timing and exaggerated mannerisms elevate the character, turning Orin into a source of both humor and horror.
Mel Welles as Mr. Mushnik: Welles’ portrayal of the shop owner adds to the film’s comedic elements. Mr. Mushnik’s bumbling demeanor and desperate attempts to save the shop provide a humorous counterbalance to Seymour’s darker choices.
Unique Style and Direction
Roger Corman’s direction is instrumental in establishing the film’s distinct tone. Known for his low-budget films with high entertainment value, Corman masterfully blends elements of horror and comedy, creating a unique viewing experience. The film’s budget constraints are evident, but Corman’s creativity shines through, particularly in the design of Audrey II, which remains one of the film’s most iconic elements.
The film’s visual style is characterized by its vibrant colors and whimsical set designs, which juxtapose the dark themes of the narrative. The practical effects used to create Audrey II are charming and add to the film’s cult appeal. The combination of musical numbers, comedic moments, and horror elements creates a delightful rhythm that keeps audiences engaged.
Themes and Messages
The Little Shop of Horrors explores several themes, including ambition, the consequences of one’s actions, and the nature of desire. Seymour’s journey reflects the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their dreams, often leading to morally questionable decisions. The film raises questions about the cost of ambition and the idea that success can come at a steep price.
The relationship between Seymour and Audrey serves as a commentary on the complexities of love and sacrifice. Seymour’s willingness to do anything for Audrey reflects both his affection and his desperation, while Audrey’s struggle to escape her circumstances underscores the difficulties faced by those in toxic relationships.
The film also touches on societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding masculinity and success. Seymour’s transformation from an awkward florist to a figure of power illustrates the often absurd nature of societal pressures and the pursuit of the American Dream.
Where to Watch The Little Shop of Horrors Online
If you’re interested in experiencing the quirky charm of The Little Shop of Horrors, here are some streaming options:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video
The Little Shop of Horrors is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, making it accessible to viewers in HD and SD. - Hulu
The film may be included in Hulu’s library, so subscribers can check for availability. - Tubi
As a free streaming service, Tubi often features classic films like The Little Shop of Horrors, allowing viewers to enjoy it without a subscription. - Apple TV
The movie can be rented or purchased on Apple TV, providing flexible viewing options.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Google Play Movies & TV
You can rent or buy The Little Shop of Horrors on Google Play, available in various quality options. - YouTube Movies
The film is available for rental or purchase on YouTube Movies, accessible on multiple devices.
Final Thoughts on The Little Shop of Horrors (1960)
The Little Shop of Horrors is a timeless classic that expertly blends dark comedy with horror, showcasing Roger Corman’s signature style. With memorable performances, particularly from Jonathan Haze and Steve Martin, the film remains an entertaining exploration of ambition, morality, and the absurdities of life.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of cult cinema or discovering this gem for the first time, The Little Shop of Horrors promises to deliver laughs, chills, and a unique cinematic experience that has stood the test of time.
