Tremors (1990): Here comes the Graboids

1990 • Ron Underwood • 1.85:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓

Directed by Ron Underwood, Tremors is a horror comedy with a mid-budget B-movie sensibility that intentionally echoes the creature features of the 1950s. Set in the desert settlement of Perfection, Nevada, the story begins when two local handymen notice strange disturbances and unexplained deaths in the area. They soon discover that the cause is enormous subterranean creatures known as Graboids, which hunt by detecting vibrations in the ground.

Often cited as an example of highly efficient genre filmmaking, the film blends humour, suspense, and creature spectacle without relying on large-scale digital effects. One of its biggest strengths lies in the practical creature work. A combination of full-size animatronic models, underground mechanical rigs, and miniature effects shots makes the Graboids convincing enough to convey the threat they pose. When the creatures finally emerge, their massive bodies and tentacled mouths provide a striking visual reveal.

The direction emphasises suggestion as much as spectacle. Moving soil, dust trails following the characters, and collapsing ground signal the creatures’ presence, even when they remain unseen, steadily building tension around the premise. The wide desert landscapes reinforce the characters’ vulnerability, leaving them exposed to threats moving beneath the ground. Alongside the creature mechanics, the film benefits from a strong ensemble cast, a tightly constructed screenplay, and comedic timing that balances the suspense with character-driven humour.

Technical Specs:

• The Story: In a remote desert town, residents band together when giant underground creatures begin attacking, forcing them to outwit the deadly monsters to survive. Read my review of Tremors.
• Actors: Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, Finn Carter, Michael Gross, Reba McEntire, Bobby Jacoby, Charlotte Stewart, Ariana Richards, Tony Genaro, Richard Marcus, Victor Wong.
• Director: Ron Underwood
• Year: 1990
• Cinematographer: Alexander Gruszynski
• Origin: American Cinema
• Aspect ratio: 1.85:1
• Genre: Horror & Supernatural / Comedy & Satire / Monster Movies