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Gremlins

Steven Spielberg’s 1984 smash-hit ‘Gremlins’ is the definition of entertainment, delivering something for everyone. There are scares, laughs, and even a little romance all wrapped up in one memorable film. Parents may worry that Gremlins might be too scary for their young children; however, the entertaining and off-the-wall nature of these creatures will likely have children laughing more than it will have children hiding underneath their beds. The creatures are so goofy, it is impossible to be afraid for a long period of time. There is also a closeness among many of the human characters, helping to create a charming vast audience appeal. Directed by Joe Dante, Gremlins is a near perfect film in which the tenth viewing of the film can be just as enjoyable as the first viewing.

When a struggling inventor (Hoyt Axton) arrives at a mysterious store looking for a Christmas gift for his son (Zach Galligan), he finds an adorable and unique creature (voiced by Howie Mandel). When he buys the animal,(whom he names Gizmo), he is told of the very important rules and responsibilities for taking care of the creature. No water can touch the friendly furball , sunlight can kill it, and it is not to be fed after midnight. Shortly after his son is given this amazing gift, things begin to go wrong. When water is spilled on Gizmo, it multiplies, and creates more of these adorable furballs. The problem is these creatures are much more rambunctious and wilder than Gizmo. They are also very clever, resulting in them being fed after midnight. This transforms these formerly cute furballs into much more scary-looking and dangerous gremlins, and this is where the wild fun begins as these creatures create havoc all over town.

The mischievous behavior of these gremlins will have you scared and laughing at the same time. It is impossible to completely dislike these dangerous creatures, as many of their crazy actions will have you laughing out loud. There are hilarious scenes in a bar and a theater that particularly show the appealing, yet scary nature of these gremlins. Watch and laugh as the gremlins go Christmas caroling in order to set up a hated, older woman. These gremlins entertain without missing a beat.

‘Gremlins’ also stars Phoebe Cates as the very attractive and beautiful young woman who has a close friendship with the character played by Zach Galligan. The movie makes the audience care about their friendship. Cates’ character struggles to be happy during the Christmas season, and Galligan’s character listens and tries to understand the root of her unhappiness. As they become closer, they must work together to stop the gremlins from taking over their peaceful, little town.

‘Gremlins’ is a movie that the entire family can enjoy. The scary look and some of the scary acts of the gremlins are often followed by hilarious actions putting a younger audience at ease. The special effects of this film are awe-inspiring, and the overall result of the film creates much the same outcome- it is never too scary and always entertaining. ‘Gremlins’ can be a reminder to all filmmakers of quality filmmaking and quality entertainment.

Written by: Nate Tinsley

Reviewers Rating: 9.5
Reader's Rating: 8.75
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