The IT’S ALIVE movie series, initiated by the visionary director Larry Cohen in 1974, has left an indelible mark on the horror genre. The series explores the ethical ramifications of scientific experimentation and the societal anxieties surrounding the unknown. Beginning with the groundbreaking 1974 film of the same name, the IT’S ALIVE series has since expanded with sequels that further delve into the consequences of genetic anomalies.
Larry Cohen’s original film, IT’S ALIVE, is a masterful blend of horror and societal commentary. The narrative unfolds around Frank and Lenore Davis, played by John P. Ryan and Sharon Farrell, a couple eagerly anticipating the birth of their second child. However, the joyous occasion takes a horrifying turn when Lenore gives birth to a deformed and bloodthirsty baby. As the monstrous newborn embarks on a killing spree, the film poses profound moral and ethical questions about parenthood, science, and the consequences of tampering with nature.
Cohen’s unique approach to horror in IT’S ALIVE distinguishes the film from its contemporaries. Rather than relying solely on traditional horror elements, Cohen crafts a narrative that explores the fears surrounding genetic abnormalities and societal expectations. The suspenseful atmosphere and unexpected twists contribute to the film’s enduring legacy as a classic in the horror genre.
The success of the original film paved the way for two sequels that expanded the narrative and continued to examine the repercussions of genetic experimentation:
IT LIVES AGAIN (1978): Cohen returns with this sequel, which delves deeper into the aftermath of the initial horror. The plot centers around a support group for parents of mutated children. As the government becomes aware of the existence of these monstrous offspring, they decide to take drastic measures to eradicate them. The film adds layers to the ethical dilemma, exploring the consequences of societal rejection and government intervention.
IT’S ALIVE III: ISLAND OF THE ALIVE (1987): The third installment takes a different narrative approach, focusing on the legal and moral implications of dealing with the monstrous children. In response to the societal threat, the government decides to isolate the mutated offspring on a remote island, leading to unforeseen consequences and ethical debates. This installment further deepens the exploration of societal fears and governmental responses to perceived threats.
The IT’S ALIVE series, though not achieving the widespread recognition of some other horror franchises, has earned its place in the annals of horror film history. Larry Cohen’s ability to infuse horror with social commentary has resonated with a dedicated fan base. The series stands as a testament to the creative and thought-provoking possibilities within the horror genre, influencing subsequent filmmakers to explore deeper themes beyond traditional scares.
The IT’S ALIVE movie series, guided by Larry Cohen’s visionary direction, remains a captivating exploration of horror and societal fears. From the groundbreaking original in 1974 to the thought-provoking sequels that followed, the series offers a nuanced perspective on the consequences of genetic experimentation and the ethical dilemmas surrounding monstrous offspring. While it may not have achieved mainstream blockbuster status, the IT’S ALIVE series stands tall as a unique and impactful contribution to the horror genre, inviting audiences to confront their deepest fears and moral quandaries.
~David Albaugh