There are, to date, a grand total of seven Tremors movies. The franchise began in 1990 and has spawned a surprisingly enduring legacy of underground monsters and explosive action.
A Monster-Sized History: The Tremors Filmography
The Tremors franchise, known for its unique blend of horror, comedy, and Western elements, has entertained audiences for over three decades. Its enduring appeal stems from the creativity of its creatures, the relatable characters, and the satisfying spectacle of humans outsmarting seemingly unstoppable monsters. From the initial cult classic to the more recent direct-to-video releases, the Tremors universe has expanded in unexpected ways. Let’s delve into the cinematic timeline.
The Original Classics
The original Tremors (1990) set the stage for the entire franchise. Directed by Ron Underwood, it introduced audiences to the sleepy Nevada town of Perfection and the terrifying creatures known as Graboids. Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward starred as handymen who unexpectedly become heroes.
Tremors 2: Aftershocks (1996) brought back Fred Ward as Earl Bassett, this time teaming up with Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) to face off against the evolving Graboids, now known as Shriekers. The change in locale to Mexico added a new dimension to the creature feature.
Tremors 3: Back to Perfection (2001) completed the initial trilogy, solidifying Burt Gummer as the series’ central protagonist. This film introduced the final stage of the Graboid lifecycle: the Ass-Blasters.
The Later Instalments and Direct-to-Video Evolution
The Tremors franchise saw a shift with its later installments, moving primarily to the direct-to-video market. While these films often lacked the star power of the originals, they maintained the core spirit of the franchise, focusing on creature design, practical effects, and, of course, Burt Gummer.
Tremors 4: The Legend Begins (2004) served as a prequel, taking viewers back to the origins of Perfection, Nevada, and the first encounter with the Graboids. This film provided an origin story for Burt Gummer’s character and his obsession with firearms.
Tremors 5: Bloodlines (2015) brought the Graboids to South Africa, forcing Burt Gummer to team up with a new partner, Travis Welker (Jamie Kennedy), who claims to be his son. This film reinvigorated the franchise with new creature variations and a fresh dynamic.
Tremors: A Cold Day in Hell (2018) saw Burt and Travis venturing into the Arctic to battle Graboids in a frozen environment. The change in setting provided a unique challenge for the characters and the special effects team.
Tremors: Shrieker Island (2020) marked the latest entry in the Tremors film series, returning to a tropical island setting. This movie saw Burt Gummer facing off against evolved Shriekers in what was potentially his final battle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tremors
Here are 12 frequently asked questions regarding the Tremors franchise, aimed at providing a comprehensive understanding of the series and answering common curiosities.
What are the different stages of a Graboid’s lifecycle?
The Graboid lifecycle is a key element of the Tremors universe. It consists of three distinct stages:
- Graboid: The original underground worm-like creature with three tentacled tongues.
- Shrieker: A bipedal, heat-seeking creature that reproduces asexually.
- Ass-Blaster: An avian-like creature that uses chemical propulsion to fly.
Who is Burt Gummer, and why is he so important to the Tremors franchise?
Burt Gummer, played by Michael Gross, is the heart and soul of the Tremors franchise. He is a survivalist and weapons enthusiast who has dedicated his life to hunting Graboids and protecting humanity from their threat. His resourcefulness, knowledge of weaponry, and unwavering determination make him a fan favorite and a crucial component of the series’ success.
Is there a Tremors TV series?
Yes, there was a Tremors television series that aired for one season in 2003 on the Sci-Fi Channel. It featured several returning actors, including Michael Gross as Burt Gummer, and explored new characters and Graboid variations. Unfortunately, the show was canceled after only 13 episodes. A second attempted TV series, starring Kevin Bacon, was also scrapped after the pilot episode.
Are the Tremors movies connected chronologically?
While the Tremors movies generally follow a chronological order, there are some inconsistencies. Tremors 4: The Legend Begins is a prequel, and the later direct-to-video sequels pick up after the events of Tremors 3. The overall narrative arc focuses on Burt Gummer’s evolution as a Graboid hunter and the constant adaptation of the creatures.
What makes the Tremors movies so unique compared to other monster movies?
Tremors distinguishes itself through its unique blend of genres. It combines the horror elements of a creature feature with the comedy of a buddy film and the ruggedness of a Western. The grounded characters, practical effects, and inventive creature design contribute to its enduring appeal.
What are the origins of the Graboids?
The origins of the Graboids are never fully explained in the films. Tremors 4: The Legend Begins implies they have existed for a very long time. Their evolutionary path and the reasons for their underground existence remain a mystery, adding to their mystique.
Which Tremors movie is considered the best by fans and critics?
The original Tremors (1990) is widely considered the best film in the franchise. It is praised for its strong characters, clever writing, suspenseful pacing, and excellent practical effects. It set the standard for the series and remains a beloved cult classic.
Are the Tremors movies scary, funny, or both?
The Tremors movies successfully blend both horror and comedy. The threat of the Graboids is genuinely terrifying, but the characters’ reactions and the over-the-top situations create a lighthearted and humorous tone. This balance makes the movies accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.
What happened to Kevin Bacon’s character, Val McKee, after the first movie?
Kevin Bacon did not return for any of the sequels. According to the writers, they wanted to avoid typecasting Bacon and felt that the story could continue without him. Val McKee is mentioned occasionally in later installments, with references to him and Earl Bassett still living in Perfection.
Are there any plans for more Tremors movies?
As of the current date, there are no officially announced plans for more Tremors movies. However, given the franchise’s enduring popularity and the open ending of Tremors: Shrieker Island, the possibility of future installments remains open.
Where can I watch the Tremors movies?
The Tremors movies are available on various streaming platforms and for purchase on physical media (DVD and Blu-ray). Availability may vary depending on your region. Checking services like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Netflix is recommended.
What impact has the Tremors franchise had on pop culture?
The Tremors franchise has had a significant impact on pop culture, inspiring other monster movies, video games, and even Halloween costumes. The iconic design of the Graboids has become instantly recognizable, and the franchise’s blend of horror and comedy has influenced other films and television shows. The series’ emphasis on practical effects also served as a reminder of the value of tangible creature design in a world increasingly dominated by CGI.