Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Hellhole (1985) reminds me why I love the '80s.

I always fear the dreaded bait-and-switch with posters but this is another stellar example of one that gives you exactly what it promises. I usually don't like mental asylum movies either but I really enjoyed Hellhole. Nice title too. The '80s just had so many amazing movies and right when I think I've seen all the best ones, I stumble on something like this. The IMDb rating is unfair in my opinion but that's usually true with horror/exploitation. I was glad to see Robert Z'Dar (Maniac Cop) in this and I like the women-in-prison vibe. There is some atmosphere and mystery too, which kept me intrigued. I don't think you should take this movie too seriously, just enjoy the ride. It has all the hallmarks of good '80s horror: nudity, slashing, fun villains, etc. and at just 90 minutes, it doesn't overstay its welcome. I wish we could films like this these days instead of boring CGI-stuffed junk. I don't want to watch a 3-hour videogame.