"Tremors" (1990) is a cult-classic horror-comedy film directed by Ron Underwood. Set in the small desert town of Perfection, Nevada, the movie follows a group of residents who suddenly find themselves under attack by giant, underground creatures. Starring Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, and Michael Gross, the film blends thrilling monster action with humor and suspense. Its mix of practical effects and witty dialogue has made it a beloved entry in the creature-feature genre.
The story revolves around handymen Val (Kevin Bacon) and Earl (Fred Ward), who decide to leave their dead-end town for a better life. However, their plans change when they discover a series of strange deaths and disappearances. Soon, they realize the culprits are enormous, worm-like creatures later nicknamed "Graboids." These monsters can sense vibrations and burrow underground to attack their prey, making it nearly impossible to escape.
As the town's residents fight for survival, they team up with survivalist couple Burt and Heather Gummer (Michael Gross and Reba McEntire), who provide firepower and strategy. The group uses clever tactics to outwit the creatures, including using dynamite, pole vaulting across rocks, and even tricking a Graboid into crashing through a cliff. The film balances intense action with humor, making it both scary and entertaining.
One of the filmโs strengths is its reliance on practical effects rather than CGI, giving the Graboids a more realistic and menacing presence. The suspense builds as the townspeople struggle to stay quiet and avoid triggering the creatures' underground attacks. The movie also features a strong cast of likable characters, making the audience genuinely invested in their survival.
Despite its modest box-office performance upon release, Tremors gained a massive following on home video and became a cult favorite. Its success led to multiple sequels, a TV series, and ongoing love from fans of the monster-horror genre. With its mix of action, comedy, and creative monster design, Tremors remains a standout creature feature that continues to entertain audiences today.
