There are three The Hills Have Eyes movies: the original 1977 film, its 1984 sequel, and the 2006 remake. This article will delve deep into the history, legacy, and impact of this iconic horror franchise, answering all your burning questions about the cannibalistic clan that terrorizes unsuspecting travelers.
The Original Trilogy: A Gruesome Legacy
Wes Craven’s original The Hills Have Eyes (1977) shocked audiences with its unflinching portrayal of violence and the brutality of nature. The film established the themes of family conflict, survival against impossible odds, and the disturbing potential for savagery within humanity. While the sequel, The Hills Have Eyes Part II (1984), is generally considered a significant drop in quality, the 2006 remake revitalized the franchise for a new generation, offering a grittier, more visceral experience.
The Hills Have Eyes (1977): The Spark of Terror
Craven’s low-budget masterpiece introduced us to the Carter family, whose road trip through the Nevada desert takes a terrifying turn when their car breaks down near a government atomic testing site. Little do they know, they are being stalked by a family of inbred, cannibalistic mutants descended from miners who were abandoned in the area generations ago. The film’s relentless tension and graphic violence cemented its place in horror history.
The Hills Have Eyes Part II (1984): A Questionable Sequel
Directed by Wes Craven but considered a significant disappointment by many, The Hills Have Eyes Part II picks up the story shortly after the original, focusing on a motorcycle racing team attacked by the remaining members of the cannibalistic clan. The film reuses footage from the first movie and features a weaker plot and less compelling characters, making it the least favored installment in the franchise.
The Hills Have Eyes (2006): A Modern Reimagining
Alexandre Aja’s remake offered a brutal and unflinching update to Craven’s original. The film follows a similar plot, but with enhanced gore, updated special effects, and a darker tone. This The Hills Have Eyes was a commercial success, introducing a new generation to the horrors of the desert mutants and solidifying its place in the modern horror landscape. It spawned a sequel, though it is not officially part of the “main” trilogy of films based on the core Hills Have Eyes premise (more on that later).
Beyond the Main Trilogy: The Hills Have Eyes 2 (2007)
While often considered part of the franchise, The Hills Have Eyes 2 (2007), directed by Martin Weisz, technically isn’t part of the original trilogy that ends with the 2006 remake. This sequel expands upon the mythology established in the 2006 film, focusing on a group of National Guard recruits who stumble upon the mutant community while on a training mission in New Mexico. Though visually striking, many consider it a step down from the Aja remake. This brings us to a point, there are actually four The Hills Have Eyes films if you are including the 2007 sequel. However, the “definitive” answer, as outlined in the introduction, focuses on the core films directly connected to the original premise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the The Hills Have Eyes franchise, providing further insight into its creation, reception, and enduring appeal:
FAQ 1: Who directed the original The Hills Have Eyes?
The original The Hills Have Eyes (1977) was written and directed by the legendary Wes Craven, known for his iconic horror films such as A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream.
FAQ 2: Where was the original The Hills Have Eyes filmed?
The film was primarily shot in Victorville, California, utilizing the stark desert landscape to create a sense of isolation and vulnerability.
FAQ 3: Is The Hills Have Eyes based on a true story?
While the film is fictional, Wes Craven drew inspiration from the story of the Sawney Bean clan, a legendary group of Scottish cannibals who supposedly terrorized the countryside in the 15th or 16th century.
FAQ 4: What is the rating of the The Hills Have Eyes (2006) remake?
The 2006 remake is rated R for strong gruesome violence and horror, and for language.
FAQ 5: Who plays the main mutant Papa Jupiter in the original film?
The imposing Papa Jupiter was portrayed by James Whitworth in the 1977 original.
FAQ 6: What are the main differences between the original and the remake?
The remake generally features more explicit gore and violence, updated special effects, and a darker, more cynical tone. It also offers a more detailed backstory for the mutants.
FAQ 7: Why is The Hills Have Eyes Part II often considered the weakest entry?
The Hills Have Eyes Part II is criticized for its recycled footage, weaker plot, and less compelling characters. Many feel it lacks the originality and impact of the original film.
FAQ 8: Did Wes Craven have any involvement in the 2006 remake?
While Wes Craven did not direct the remake, he did serve as a producer, contributing to its overall vision and ensuring it remained true to the spirit of the original.
FAQ 9: Is there a The Hills Have Eyes 3 planned?
As of now, there are no officially announced plans for a direct sequel to The Hills Have Eyes 2 (2007) or a further reboot of the franchise. While the property remains viable, there have been no concrete developments.
FAQ 10: What is the significance of the atomic testing site in the films?
The atomic testing site serves as a symbol of societal irresponsibility and the unintended consequences of technology. It implies that the mutant family’s mutations are a direct result of exposure to radiation, highlighting the potential for humanity to create its own monsters.
FAQ 11: How successful was The Hills Have Eyes (2006) at the box office?
The 2006 remake was a commercial success, grossing over $69 million worldwide against a production budget of just $15 million. This success reignited interest in the franchise.
FAQ 12: What makes The Hills Have Eyes so scary and enduring?
The films’ enduring appeal lies in their unflinching depiction of violence, the primal fear of being hunted, and the exploration of the dark side of human nature. The themes of survival and the breakdown of societal norms in the face of extreme adversity continue to resonate with audiences. The unsettling premise, combined with the graphic depiction of violence, makes it a truly terrifying cinematic experience.