Dir. Frank Henenlotter | Now Streaming On: Tubi | Rating: 4/5

Oh horror comedy – my love/hate/love relationship with this subgenre carries on. Call me stoic, but I’m not typically amused by comedies, horror or romantic or otherwise. I’ve got a particular sense of humor – I watched The Simpsons and South Park religiously as a child, but CANNOT STAND Modern Family, Friends, Seinfeld…I’m going to stop there before I lose more followers. But, Basket Case! Basket Case is an 80s gem that I’ve had to pause while watching because I was laughing too hard. ⁠
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Basket Case is a beautiful mess of a film. In context of its genre, it stands out as a great example of a competent and campy low budget monster flick. This production team pulled out all the stops from puppets to stop motion to sell the seedy atmosphere. The charming clunkiness of the puppets match with the all out sound effects is priceless – I’m telling you, I laugh every single time. I’m a simple woman, I see a mysterious unhinged creature in a basket that screeches and I’m sold. ⁠
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When we pull back the thick blanket of ridiculousness, Basket Case delivers a subtle commentary on the impacts of bullying, isolation, and discrimination. By treating “outcasts” poorly, society drives the wedge further between them, strengthening the “us vs. them” mentality that leads to devastation in many communities. However, some elements of Basket Case have naturally not aged well. Commentary regarding race, class, and gender – particularly through the character of Casey, a sex worker who lives next door to Duane, are less than ideal. ⁠
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Basket Case delivers on its promise of being sick, twisted, and hilarious. It’s creative premise, matched with its solid kills and twist, make this a must watch – especially with friends and alcohol! ⁠
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Know Before You Watch: Features blood, death. ⁠