This week on Dark Corners, we delve into the 1981's horror-comedy film, 'The Being,' directed by Jackie Kong. Although it's a rare instance of a film from this era directed by a woman, that alone doesn't elevate its quality.
Produced by her then-husband Bill 'Flesh Gordon' Osco, the movie exhibits a performance of significant emotional detachment. The storyline unfolds in Pottsville, Idaho, where odd events are afoot, related to a mysterious green slime.
We see Martin Landau, later an Oscar winner, taking part in this rather peculiar film. Particularly memorable is a conversation about radiation from watches, referencing historical uses of radium.
In typical fashion for monster films, Pottsville's mayor echoes 'Jaws' by ignoring threats to protect local interests. Much of the film's humor derives from the characters' deadpan reactions to bizarre occurrences.
Ultimately, it's suggested that the monstrous "being" might actually be a child named Michael, a plot thread that's intriguingly left ambiguous. Despite its three Oscar-winning cast members, 'The Being' remains a curious mixture of horror and humor.
Let us know in the comments if you've seen 'The Being' and what you think about its unique combination of award-winning talent and campy execution.