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, whose road trip turns into a fight for survival after their RV breaks down in the desert. They find themselves targeted by a group of cannibals living in the surrounding hills. The film is largely set in a desolate, isolated landscape, emphasizing the family's vulnerability once they are stranded.
While the movie is identified as horror, it incorporates themes of survival and the breakdown of societal norms. The narrative explores how ordinary individuals react when faced with extreme violence and terror, particularly when confronted by a dehumanized enemy. Critical reception for the film reflects its status as a cult classic within the horror genre, with an IMDb rating of 6.3 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 69%.
The film's low-budget production is noted by some, but its impact comes from its raw intensity and allegorical undertones, rather than polished visuals. It has been recognized for its brisk pacing and moments of suspense, cementing its place as a significant entry in Wes Craven's early career.
Why you might be searching for The Hills Have Eyes
People are often searching for this movie because of its survival horror premise involving a family stranded in the desert and attacked by cannibals. The film's keywords, such as "rape," "murder," and "cannibal," along with its 1970s release date, point to its reputation as a gritty, unsettling experience. Some search queries also suggest a memory of specific disturbing scenes, like a character killing a dog or events involving a broken-down vehicle and a menacing presence in the woods or mountains.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer acknowledges the film's brisk pacing and inserted allegories, but notes that the low budget detracts from the horror elements, making some violent or sexual aspects less impactful.
Read the full reviewA reviewer found the 1977 original a solid exploitation horror film, though they personally preferred the remake, while still recommending the original.
Read the full reviewThis film was described as an okay independent horror movie, noting that the characters were not obnoxious and that it was entertaining enough despite not being particularly special.
Read the full reviewA reviewer suggests that while the film draws inspiration from other horror works, it falls short due to a lack of artistry and dull storytelling, with antagonists shown too clearly from the start.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream *The Hills Have Eyes* (1977) on YouTube TV and Fandor. It is also available to stream for free on Kanopy and Hoopla, and you can purchase it on Blu-ray.
*The Hills Have Eyes* is based on the legend of Sawney Bean, the alleged leader of a 48-person Scottish clan from the 16th century that was said to have murdered and cannibalized over 1,000 people. While some historians debate the truth of this legend, director Wes Craven adapted this story to a contemporary American West setting.
In the ending of *The Hills Have Eyes*, after Doug saves Katy and Ruby escapes with the baby, Doug encounters Mars. Ruby intervenes, allowing Doug to overpower Mars and repeatedly stab him to death while Ruby watches. This ending was chosen by director Wes Craven to show a role reversal, as the original script had the family reuniting happily.
*The Hills Have Eyes* is considered a cult classic with generally positive reviews. Critics have praised its tense narrative and dark humor, with Rotten Tomatoes reporting a 69% approval rating.