The Little Shop of Horrors (1960)

The Little Shop of Horrors Poster

Seymour works in a skid row florist shop and is in love with his beautiful co-worker, Audrey. He creates a new plant that not only talks but cannot survive without human flesh and blood.

Film Overview
"The Little Shop of Horrors" is an American comedy scary motion picture released in 1960, directed by Roger Corman. It is among the earliest films shot by Corman and based upon a story by Charles B. Griffith. The film features a series of dark humor and satirical attacks on contemporary society and politics. The movie's surreal and profane storyline as well as its eccentric characters, consisting of a talking carnivorous plant, have assisted it to attain cult status.

Plot Summary
The film's plot revolves around an awkward boy named Seymour Krelboyne, represented by Jonathan Haze, who operates at a floral designer shop owned by Mr. Mushnick. Seymour is obsessed with his colleague Audrey Fulquard, and would like absolutely nothing more than to impress her. The flower store remains in problem and is on the edge of bankruptcy, up until Seymour provides an unusual and unusual plant that he named "Audrey Jr.", in honor of his crush. The plant attracts clients, and service starts expanding.

Nevertheless, the plant - which Seymour discovered after a solar eclipse - is no common plant. It thrives on human blood, and after consuming his, Seymour realizes that it requires more. It begins with unintentional deaths, but slowly, Seymour realizes that he needs to kill human beings to keep Audrey Jr. alive. When the plant is fed, it grows at a disconcerting rate and shocks everybody with its ability to talk.

Characters and Performances
Jonathan Haze delivers a standout performance as the awkward Seymour while Jackie Joseph represents the equally hapless Audrey convincingly. Mel Welles as the floral designer Mr. Mushnick completely portrays a greedy businessman. The show-stealing character is certainly Audrey Jr., the plant with a gruesome appetite that provides the film its scary element. The supporting cast consists of Dick Miller and a really young Jack Nicholson, in one of his early functions, as a masochistic dental patient.

Reception and Legacy
"The Little Shop of Horrors" at first met a mixed critical reception but has actually given that developed a cult following. The satirical humor and dark undertones of the plot have held audiences captivated for years. The film likewise motivated an effective off-Broadway musical in 1982, which was consequently adapted into a favored movie in 1986 featuring Rick Moranis and Steve Martin. It has actually also inspired several other spin-offs, re-imaginings and popular culture referrals.

Conclusion
"The Little Shop of Horrors" is a 1960's classic horror comedy film, a true testament to director Roger Corman's ability to create an engaging motion picture on a small budget. Although it showcases dark humor and macabre aspects, the film keeps a sense of enjoyable throughout. The story arc manages to keep viewers engaged as they see the battles of Seymour and his growing bloodthirsty plant. The tradition left by the movie proves its impact on cinematic history, as it remains a popular classic and continues to motivate numerous adjustments and tributes.

Top Cast

  • Jonathan Haze (small)
    Jonathan Haze
    Seymour Krelborn
  • Jackie Joseph (small)
    Jackie Joseph
    Audrey Fulquard
  • Mel Welles (small)
    Mel Welles
    Gravis Mushnick
  • Dick Miller (small)
    Dick Miller
    Burson Fouch
  • Myrtle Vail (small)
    Myrtle Vail
    Winifred Krelborn
  • Karyn Kupcinet (small)
    Karyn Kupcinet
    Shirley
  • Toby Michaels (small)
    Toby Michaels
    Teenage Girl
  • Leola Wendorff (small)
    Leola Wendorff
    Siddie Shiva
  • Lynn Storey
    Mrs. Hortense Feuchtwanger
  • Wally Campo (small)
    Wally Campo
    Det. Sgt. Joe Fink / Narrator
  • Jack Nicholson (small)
    Jack Nicholson
    Wilbur Force