The Last House on the Left (1972)
On the eve of her 17th birthday, Mari and friend Phyllis set off from her family home to attend a rock concert in the city. Attempting to score some drugs on the way, the pair run afoul of a group of vicious crooks, headed up by the sadistic Krug.
Details
Budget
$90,000
Rating
6/10 (695 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Lobster Enterprises, Sean S. Cunningham Films, The Night Co.
About The Last House on the Left
Directed by Wes Craven, "The Last House on the Left" (1972) is a horror-thriller that centers on the brutal kidnapping, torture, and murder of two teenage girls by a group of escaped convicts. The film then follows the unexpected turn of events when the criminals unknowingly seek shelter at the home of one of their victims' parents, leading to a violent confrontation as the parents discover the truth.
While categorized as horror, thriller, crime, and drama, the film leans heavily into its crime and drama elements through its depiction of revenge. Critics have noted its graphic content and grim narrative, which were controversial upon its release and led to its classification as a "video nasty" in some regions. The film's low budget and raw style contribute to its unsettling atmosphere, making it a polarizing work in horror cinema.
The film explores themes of vengeance and the breakdown of societal norms when faced with extreme violence. Its impact on the horror genre is often discussed, particularly for its unflinching portrayal of brutality and its influence on the "rape and revenge" subgenre. The narrative builds tension through the juxtaposition of suburban normalcy with unimaginable acts of cruelty.
Why you might be searching for The Last House on the Left
People often search for "The Last House on the Left" due to its notorious reputation as a groundbreaking and controversial horror film. Its graphic depiction of violence and themes of revenge make it a memorable, if disturbing, entry in the genre, particularly for those interested in early works by Wes Craven or the "video nasty" phenomenon.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer saw the film more as a gruesome drama than a horror movie, noting that despite some gore, the atmosphere lacked typical horror elements like jump scares or creepy music, leading them to feel it was not Wes Craven's best work.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "The Last House on the Left" on FuboTV, MGM+ (via Amazon Channel, Roku Premium Channel), Philo, Tubi TV (with ads), Kanopy, and Hoopla. It is also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, and Fandango At Home. Physical copies can be purchased on DVD or Blu-ray from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
No, "The Last House on the Left" is not based on a true story. It is a 1972 American horror film written and directed by Wes Craven, and it was inspired by the 1960 Swedish film "The Virgin Spring," which in turn is an adaptation of a Swedish ballad.
After Mari's parents discover her body in the woods, they realize the criminals responsible are staying in their home disguised as salesmen. Mari's mother, Estelle, seduces Weasel and bites off his penis, leading to his death. Mari's father, Dr. Collingwood, confronts Krug and Sadie. Junior, Krug's son, tries to intervene with a gun but is manipulated by his father into committing suicide. Estelle ultimately kills Sadie by slitting her throat, and Dr. Collingwood kills Krug with a chainsaw. The film concludes with the parents in the living room as the police arrive.
While its visceral brutality can be repulsive, "The Last House on the Left" is notable as Wes Craven's directorial debut and has been recognized for its narrative and performances, especially by Sandra Peabody and David Hess. It has achieved a cult following and was nominated for AFI's 100 Years...100 Thrills.