Cannibal Apocalypse (1980)
Original Title: Apocalisse Domani
Directed by: Antonio Margheriti
Starring: John Saxon, Elizabeth Turner, Giovanni Lombardo Radice, Tony King
Genre: Horror, Exploitation
Country: Italy
Language: English (originally dubbed)
Alternate Titles: Invasion of the Flesh Hunters, Cannibals in the Streets
Plot Summary
“Cannibal Apocalypse” is a 1980 Italian horror film that blends elements of the cannibal and zombie sub-genres, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and its aftermath. The story revolves around a group of Vietnam War veterans who return home, only to find themselves plagued by a virus that induces a craving for human flesh.
The film opens with a harrowing scene in Vietnam, where U.S. Army Captain Norman Hopper (John Saxon) rescues two fellow soldiers, Charlie Bukowski (Giovanni Lombardo Radice) and Tom Thompson (Tony King), from a Viet Cong pit. Both soldiers are found in a state of hysteria, exhibiting signs of cannibalistic behavior after being held captive and tortured.
Years later, back in Atlanta, Georgia, Hopper is struggling to reintegrate into civilian life. He begins experiencing nightmarish flashbacks and uncontrollable urges to consume human flesh. Bukowski, now released from a psychiatric hospital, reenters Hopper’s life and exacerbates the situation. As the infection spreads, the veterans’ descent into cannibalism leads to a series of violent and bloody confrontations, culminating in a desperate struggle for survival.
Themes and Style
“Cannibal Apocalypse” explores themes of post-war trauma, the dehumanizing effects of war, and the breakdown of societal norms. The film is notable for its gritty, urban setting and its focus on psychological horror, as well as the physical manifestations of the characters’ afflictions.
Director Antonio Margheriti, known for his work in various exploitation genres, delivers a film that combines shock and gore with a more cerebral approach to horror. The special effects, particularly the scenes of cannibalism and gore, are explicit and designed to provoke a visceral reaction from the audience.
Cast
- John Saxon as Captain Norman Hopper: A war veteran struggling with the psychological aftermath of his experiences in Vietnam.
- Elizabeth Turner as Jane Hopper: Norman’s concerned wife, who becomes increasingly worried about his erratic behavior.
- Giovanni Lombardo Radice as Charlie Bukowski: One of the infected soldiers whose return triggers the spread of the cannibalistic virus.
- Tony King as Tom Thompson: Another veteran grappling with the same affliction.
Reception
Upon its release, “Cannibal Apocalypse” received mixed reviews. It was praised for its intense atmosphere and John Saxon’s compelling performance but criticized for its graphic violence and exploitation elements. Over time, the film has gained a cult following among fans of Italian horror and exploitation cinema, appreciated for its unique blend of action, horror, and social commentary.
Legacy
“Cannibal Apocalypse” remains a significant entry in the Italian horror canon, notable for its attempt to merge the cannibal sub-genre with more contemporary, urban horror. The film is often discussed in the context of its controversial themes and its reflection of societal anxieties surrounding war and its aftermath. Despite its divisive nature, it has secured a place in the annals of cult horror cinema.
