THE HALLOWEEN HIT LIST

MANIAC COP (1988) 

Rated: R

85 mins.

Written by: Larry Cohen

Directed by: William Lustig

William Lustig, director of the controversial Maniac, adds Cop to the end of the title and casts horror industry icons Bruce Campbell and Tom Atkins, creating an instant low-budget classic.  The story, if you can call it that, follows the typical slasher construct of a mysterious killer that murders for no apparent reason, only this time he’s dressed up in a cop’s uniform.

The poster has the greatest tagline in horror history, “You have the right to remain silent… forever!”  This is the perfect October flick because of its mindless but highly entertaining slaughter, and the killer is a creepy-looking bastard.  Also, the main characters played by Bruce Campbell and Tom Atkins are both fantastic.  I have a feeling this isn’t the last time we will see Tom Atkins on this list.

Like Intruder, this film is 80’s cheese at its finest.  The acting is at times corny but the violence and the uniqueness of a serial killer dressed up as a uniformed police officer make it worth watching.  The best way to watch a film like this is with a group of friends and a bunch of cold beers.  Laugh at the absurdity, but I assure you, you will be entertained.  And that is what October is about, gathering your friends and enjoying cheesy 80’s horror.

Do you like gore?  Check.

Do you like Bruce Campbell’s chin?  Check.

Do you like the song “Fuck the Police”?  Check.

Then what are you waiting for?  Pop this cheesy bastard in.