Street Trash is an American splatter horror/comedy film from director Jim Muro. Starring Mike Lackey, R. L. Ryan, and Vic Noto. It was filmed in 1985, but didn’t see release until September 18th, 1987. It was a limited release that only made it to a few screens. The production company, Lightning Pictures, released the film on VHS that same year. This is where it shined as a Cult Classic.

The VHS remains on my wishlist. I am always keeping an eye out when I am at Goodwill. I am watching Street Trash on Shudder horror movie streaming service. It’s a wonderful transfer. Do yourself a favor and check out that service.

Synopsis

A liquor store owner sells a strange bottle of liquor called “Viper” to the local homeless people for a dollar a piece. It’s a mysterious brew that acts like a kind of acid that melts the person drinking it. And it’s gruesome. The homeless don’t only have to worry about deadly tainted hooch, but also a deranged Vietnam veteran that rules the junkyard they live in.

Analysis

Street Trash is the type of flick that you can’t just come into blind. You need some sort of warning. A warm up. I had seen Slime City prior to watching this one. So I was kind of ready for the putrid ugliness. It's vile and disgusting, but it really gets the job done. As I said about Slime City, this feels like punk rock film. In your face and against the system.

Director Jim Muro has said that he set out to make the most controversial film of all time. He was aiming to offend everyone. So if you have a weak constitution this movie isn’t going to be for you. There will be something in this movie that is geared to offend you.

The acting, directing, editing, soundtrack, etc. are all minor aspects of this movie. The main focus is more on the highly grotesque practical effects. Body melting is the main theme of this picture. The effects from Mike Lackey and Jennifer Aspinall are equally wonderful and revolting. Bright neon tones that act as a stark contrast to the usual dark crimson blood and guts.

Overall

Street Trash wasn't a good movie. Not by a long shot. The thing is... it's not supposed to be. The goal of this flick is to shock and awe the crowd. Not please it. This movie succeeds in the same way that a film like Human Centipede does. It makes you feel something. Even if that something is disgust.