
The Hills Have Eyes (1977)
Taking an ill-advised detour en-route to California, the Carter family soon run into trouble when their RV breaks down in the middle of the desert. Stranded, they find themselves at the mercy of monstrous cannibals lurking in the surrounding hills.
Details
Budget
$350,000
Rating
6/10 (905 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Blood Relations Co.
About The Hills Have Eyes
Wes Craven's 1977 horror film, "The Hills Have Eyes," centers on the Carter family's ill-fated road trip. After their RV breaks down in the desert, they become targets for a group of cannibals living in the nearby hills. The film explores themes of survival and the breakdown of societal norms when confronted with extreme violence.
While some viewers note that the low budget affected the film's overall presentation, leading to elements that are not always frightening, it has garnered a cult following among horror fans. Its brisk pacing and moments of suspense are frequently cited as strengths. The film's critical reception is mixed, with a 69% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 64/100 on Metacritic, while audiences on IMDb rate it slightly lower at 6.3.
"The Hills Have Eyes" delves into horror by pitting a suburban family against a brutal, isolated community. The narrative focuses on the family's struggle for survival and the desperate measures they must take to defend themselves against their attackers. It is often compared to other horror films of its era that explore similar themes of remote danger and the savagery of human nature.
Why you might be searching for The Hills Have Eyes
People often search for specific, graphic scenes from "The Hills Have Eyes," such as those involving violence or particular character fates, including the dog's neck being snapped or the mother cutting her own throat. There are also searches for specific plot points like the daughter being held captive or the unusual appearance of one of the antagonists, indicating the film's ability to create memorable, albeit disturbing, imagery.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer acknowledges the film's cult status among Wes Craven fans, citing its pacing and allegories despite limitations from the low budget affecting the depiction of violence and some acting performances.
Read the full reviewA critic found the original film to be solid, even while believing the remake surpassed it, and expressed interest in a spin-off focused on the character Beast.
Read the full reviewA viewer thought the film was acceptable for an independent horror movie, noting that the characters were not obnoxious and found it entertaining, even if not exceptional.
Read the full reviewOne reviewer traces the film's influences to "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," the Sawney Bean legend, "Deliverance," and "Straw Dogs," highlighting its theme of civilized people resorting to savagery, but felt the antagonists were too openly depicted.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can find where to stream, rent, or buy the 1977 film *The Hills Have Eyes* by checking current availability and pricing on platforms that list subscription, rental, and digital purchase options. plotexplained.com
The 1977 film *The Hills Have Eyes* is based on the legend of Sawney Bean, the alleged leader of a 48-person Scottish clan who supposedly murdered and cannibalized over 1000 people. Director Wes Craven found the legend while researching "terrible things" at the New York Public Library. wikipedia.org
In the ending of *The Hills Have Eyes*, Brenda and Bobby defeat Papa Jupiter with booby traps and fatally shoot him, while Pluto is mauled by Beast. With Ruby's help, Doug rescues Katy and fatally stabs Mars. An alternative ending shows Ruby accompanying Doug, Katy, Bobby, and Brenda, with Brenda extending her hand to Ruby. wikipedia.org
*The Hills Have Eyes* is considered a cult classic with mostly positive reviews from critics. Many critics praise its tense narrative and dark humor, though some of its cruder elements may be off-putting to viewers. rottentomatoes.com