I guess I’m pretty inhumane or have simply been so desensitized over the years that for me; the subject and controversy really isn’t that much of a hot button issue for me anymore. When I think of Cannibal Holocaust, I think of the brilliant set-up of the faux-documentary style format being used so effectively and so early on in the timeline of horror cinema. I think of the beautiful cinematography and the way Deodato was able to capture the jungle unlike any other Italian cannibal film ever did. I think of all of the history around the film, from the introduction of Mondo cinema to the often-terrible cannibal films that were made previous and post Cannibal Holocaust. I think of the bloody violence, the disturbing storyline and of course the animal butchery - but how could I toil on it when there’s so much more to be in awe of when discussing the film? Not to mention the animals killed within the film were all to be eaten, and were eaten, anyway.
After watching Cannibal Holocaust, if you’re left with the impression that it’s simple schlock and exploitative nonsense; I recommend first watching a triple feature of Cannibals, Cannibal Terror and Cannibal Ferox. After this you’ll realize the difference between a truly great cannibal feature and one made simply to produce a quick buck. I used to simply be a casual CH fan, but I swear, after sitting through a few really terrible Italian cannibal flicks it helped me to realize just what Deodato’s film did so well an what the others simply never were able to do and that is create an impact on its audience in a visceral and unique way. Afterward I’d recommend checking out House on the Edge of the Park, Jungle Holocaust and Cut and Run. After that you’ll see Deodato isn’t just another Italian sleaze hack. Although he didn’t leave as many brilliant films as one would have liked to see - I think the films made when he was “on” all show he was a director with a voice of his own and not simply a flash in the pan.
