The Crazies (1973 version)

THE CRAZIES (1973 version)

 

Even though this original version of The Crazies (not to be confused with the 2010 remake) is never terribly suspenseful or gripping, it does feature an engaging core concept and some horrific imagery of government operatives invading homes and rounding up small-town citizens (some of whom may be infected by an experimental bio-weapon known as Trixie that accidentally got into the local water supply).  The plot follows a volunteer fireman named David, his pregnant wife Judy, and their friend Clank as they struggle to escape from the martial law that has been imposed on their community in the wake of the outbreak of a virus that induces permanent insanity and sometimes death in those infected.  David and his allies make their way from one location to another (a country club, a house, etc) and gather food as they head toward the edge of town while dodging (and sometimes killing) soldiers.  Trouble arises as it becomes increasingly apparent that Clank is slowly going mad and must be infected.  After a soldier kills Clank, David and Judy nearly escape but ultimately fail (a crazed townie shoots Judy, and the military captures David).  A bleak ending suggests that the virus may have already spread beyond the quarantined area.

I really dug the 2010 remake of this project and was curious to see the source material that inspired the more recent version.  While the 1973 incarnation of The Crazies is not a horror film in the traditional sense, it does posit horrific questions.  What if the Army accidentally unleashed a madness-inducing virus within the continental United States?  What if the President seriously considered nuking the impacted community?  What if your pregnant wife died in your arms?  The original Crazies (directed by George A. Romero) is entertaining and haunting in its own way.  I’m glad I finally got around to checking this cult classic out.