There are seven films in the Tremors franchise, chronicling the adventures of Burt Gummer and others against the subterranean terrors known as Graboids. This enduring series has spawned a dedicated fanbase and a surprisingly expansive universe beyond the initial cult classic.
A Deep Dive into the Tremors Cinematic Universe
The Tremors franchise, launched in 1990, has consistently delivered a unique blend of horror, comedy, and action. While the initial film cemented its place in cinematic history, the sequels and prequels have further explored the creatures’ lifecycle, origins, and weaknesses. Let’s dissect each entry in this subterranean saga.
Tremors (1990): The Beginning
The movie that started it all. Set in the isolated Nevada town of Perfection, Tremors introduces us to Graboids, massive worm-like creatures that hunt by sensing vibrations. Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward star as handymen Valentine McKee and Earl Bassett, who must team up with seismologist Rhonda LeBeck (Finn Carter) and survivalist Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) to save their town. This film is lauded for its practical effects, sharp humor, and the memorable characters that define the franchise.
Tremors 2: Aftershocks (1996): The Evolution
Valentine McKee (Fred Ward returns) is lured back into the Graboid-hunting business by Carlos Ortega (Marcelo Tubert) and Grady Hoover (Christopher Gartin) to deal with a new infestation in Mexico. This sequel introduces Shriekers, the evolved form of Graboids that hunt using heat signatures. Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) also makes a triumphant return, solidifying his status as the series’ iconic character.
Tremors 3: Back to Perfection (2001): The Aerial Assault
Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) returns to Perfection to battle a new generation of Graboids and Shriekers. This film introduces Ass-Blasters, the final stage in the Graboid lifecycle, capable of flight and using flammable gas for propulsion. This entry leans heavily into the comedic elements, with a focus on Burt’s eccentric personality and his arsenal of weaponry.
Tremors 4: The Legend Begins (2004): A Prequel
This prequel takes us back to 1889, revealing the origins of Perfection and the Graboids that terrorized the region. Hiram Gummer (Michael Gross), Burt’s ancestor, is a wealthy mine owner who must overcome his cowardice to defend his town. Tremors 4 offers a glimpse into the early days of the Gummer family and provides context for Burt’s unwavering dedication to monster hunting.
Tremors 5: Bloodlines (2015): International Threat
Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) travels to South Africa with his new partner, Travis Welker (Jamie Kennedy), to battle a new, more aggressive species of Graboid. Tremors 5 brings a fresh setting and introduces the African Graboid, which exhibits different behaviors and adaptations compared to its North American counterparts. The film aims for a slightly darker tone compared to previous installments.
Tremors: A Cold Day in Hell (2018): Arctic Terror
Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) and Travis Welker (Jamie Kennedy) are called to Canada’s Arctic to investigate a series of deadly attacks by Graboids in a research facility. Suffering from a mysterious illness, Burt must rely on Travis and a team of scientists to survive and defeat the creatures. The frozen landscape adds a unique challenge to the monster-hunting formula.
Tremors: Shrieker Island (2020): Tropical Havoc
Burt Gummer (Michael Gross) faces his final showdown with Graboids and Shriekers on a remote tropical island. This film sees a wealthy game hunter genetically engineering Shriekers for sport, leading to chaos and destruction. Tremors: Shrieker Island marked the end of Michael Gross’s tenure as Burt Gummer, concluding a significant chapter in the franchise’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tremors
Here are some commonly asked questions about the Tremors franchise:
FAQ 1: Is the Tremors Franchise Worth Watching?
Yes, absolutely! The Tremors franchise offers a unique blend of monster movie thrills, comedic moments, and memorable characters. While some sequels are stronger than others, the series as a whole provides hours of entertainment for fans of creature features. The first film is often considered a classic, and the later entries offer varying degrees of quality but still maintain the core appeal of the franchise.
FAQ 2: Which Tremors Movie is Considered the Best?
The original Tremors (1990) is widely regarded as the best film in the series. Its combination of practical effects, compelling characters, suspenseful plot, and sharp humor set the standard for the franchise and cemented its place in cinematic history.
FAQ 3: Which Tremors Movie is Considered the Worst?
While opinions vary, some fans consider Tremors 6: A Cold Day in Hell to be one of the weaker entries in the series. Others might point to Tremors 5: Bloodlines due to its perceived inconsistencies with established lore. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role.
FAQ 4: Will there be a Tremors 8?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a Tremors 8. Michael Gross, the iconic Burt Gummer, has stated that Tremors: Shrieker Island was his final appearance in the franchise. However, the enduring popularity of the series suggests that a reboot or continuation could be possible in the future.
FAQ 5: How many different types of creatures are there in the Tremors franchise?
The Tremors franchise features three distinct stages in the Graboid lifecycle: Graboids, Shriekers, and Ass-Blasters. In Tremors 5: Bloodlines, the African Graboid is introduced, representing a variant of the original Graboid species.
FAQ 6: Is there a Tremors TV Series?
Yes, there have been two Tremors television series. The first, titled Tremors: The Series, aired for one season in 2003. A second, more recent Tremors television series, starring Kevin Bacon, was greenlit but ultimately not picked up beyond the pilot episode. The pilot episode is viewable online.
FAQ 7: Where can I watch the Tremors movies?
The Tremors movies are available on various streaming platforms, depending on your region. They can often be found on services like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Tubi. You can also rent or purchase them digitally on platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu.
FAQ 8: Are the Tremors movies scary?
The Tremors movies are more accurately described as horror-comedies rather than outright horror films. They feature moments of suspense and creature-based terror, but they are also filled with humor and over-the-top action. They are generally not considered to be particularly frightening for most viewers.
FAQ 9: What is the order I should watch the Tremors movies in?
While you can watch them in release order for the intended narrative progression (Tremors, Tremors 2, Tremors 3, Tremors 4, Tremors 5, Tremors 6, Tremors 7), some prefer watching the prequel Tremors 4 after the first three films to better understand the Gummer family history.
FAQ 10: What makes Burt Gummer such a popular character?
Burt Gummer’s enduring popularity stems from his eccentric personality, his unwavering dedication to monster hunting, and his impressive arsenal of weaponry. He embodies the quintessential survivalist, combining preparedness with a quirky sense of humor. His character arc, evolving from a supporting role to the central figure in the sequels, has resonated with audiences.
FAQ 11: Are the effects in the Tremors movies practical or CGI?
The original Tremors movie is renowned for its impressive practical effects, which contribute significantly to its enduring appeal. The sequels have incorporated more CGI, particularly for the more complex creature designs and action sequences. However, the franchise has always strived to maintain a balance between practical and CGI effects.
FAQ 12: What is the significance of the town of Perfection in the Tremors universe?
Perfection, Nevada, serves as the central location and the origin point for much of the Tremors lore. It represents an isolated and vulnerable community that is repeatedly threatened by the Graboids and their evolved forms. The town’s name ironically contrasts with the constant chaos and danger that its inhabitants face, creating a recurring comedic element throughout the franchise.