Tuesday, September 20, 2022
The Hitcher
- Commentary: I used to have a good friend (she is long dead, having been almost exactly 20 years older than me) who, among other things, introduced me to all kinds of movies and, particularly, horror movies. This is one of the most memorable horror movies in her line-up, and I am living proof of this because, decades later, I still have vivid memories of it. In addition, this movie has captured the imaginations of many people, including movie critics, who were wildly split in their critiques (although the audience critiques were not split), which is why I linked the title of this post to the Metacritic round-up of reviews. This film is a doozey and I'm glad to finally own it, even though it is surprisingly pricey (although, perhaps not surprising, considering its continued popularity).
Its effect on me is rather like that of Duel: once it starts, even knowing its trajectory, I can't stop watching it. What an extraordinary villain Rutger Hauer fashioned in this movie! I consider this killer iconic, and that is in large part due to the smooth, unbearably attractive menace with which Hauer imbued his character.
Roger Ebert hated this movie. So did Gene Siskel. Many prominent critics hated this movie. Some high level critics enjoyed it and appreciated it. I am mesmerized by it, which is why I've added it to my collection. I don't own many horror movies because I'm very discerning about my horror, but the ones I own are top of the crop. This movie is at the top of the top.
I'll be receiving and watching it very soon, so I'll be back later with a follow-up on my second watching of it. Here's to many more.
Thanks, Pat. You schooled me well, and I remain grateful.
Actor Role Actor Role Actor Role Actor Role Rutger Hauer John Ryder C. Thomas Howell Jim Halsey Jeffrey DeMunn Captain Esteridge Jennifer Jason Leigh Nash John M. Jackson Sergeant Starr Billy Green Bush Trooper Donner Jack Thibeau Trooper Prestone Armin Shimerman Interrogation Sergeant Gene Davis Trooper Dodge Jon Van Ness Trooper Hapscomb Henry Darrow Trooper Hancock Tony Epper Trooper Conners
Here's a link to the Wikipedia write-up of the film.
Release Date: 1986
Directed by Robert Harmon.
Labels: horror2, jennifer-jason-leigh
