seaflog.com – Night of the Lepus (1972) is a bizarre and often unintentionally humorous horror film that tells the tale of a small town terrorized by giant, mutated rabbits. Directed by William F. Claxton and starring Stuart Whitman and Janet Leigh, the film is a curious blend of science fiction, horror, and B-movie camp.
A Bunny Gone Wild
The film’s premise is as absurd as it sounds: a scientist (Whitman) develops a serum to control the rabbit population, but a lab accident leads to the rabbits growing to enormous size and becoming aggressive. As these monstrous creatures wreak havoc on the town, the scientist and a local sheriff (Leigh) must band together to stop them.
A Hopelessly Unconvincing Threat
While the concept of giant, killer rabbits is certainly intriguing, the film’s execution is far from terrifying. The special effects, which involve animatronic rabbits and stop-motion techniques, are often laughable rather than frightening. The creatures themselves, despite their size, lack any real menace.
A Cast of Uninspired Performances
The film’s cast, while featuring recognizable names like Stuart Whitman and Janet Leigh, delivers mostly uninspired performances. The dialogue is often stilted and the characters are thinly drawn. The film’s pacing is uneven, with long stretches of dull exposition interspersed with brief moments of action.
A Cult Classic or a Hopeless Flop?
Despite its many flaws, Night of the Lepus has developed a cult following over the years. Its absurd premise, cheesy special effects, and unintentional humor have made it a favorite among fans of B-movies and horror. However, for those seeking a genuinely scary or suspenseful film, Night of the Lepus is likely to disappoint.
A Hopelessly Hopeless Conclusion
Night of the Lepus is a curious and often unintentionally funny film that serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific experimentation. While it may not be a great film, it is certainly a memorable one, and its place in the pantheon of B-movie horror is secure.