If the cast hadn't played this film absolutely seriously it wouldn't have worked, but they did, so it does. M. Emmet Walsh is the focus and anchor of the story, and is perfect in the role, as I'd expect from one of our greatest character actors. The premise -- that the movie monster created decades earlier by Walsh actually lives -- is ridiculous, but, like any good science fiction, is acceptable as long as we're led to it in a logical manner. Because the film is played straight, we're free both to accept and to laugh at it. I'm not sure I'm imparting how enjoyable this film is. Another reviewer referred to it as "snack food," and I agree. It's snack food with some substance however, like a big Snickers with protein from the peanuts, as opposed to Wal-Mart potato chips. I'd watch it again, if only for some of the quotable dialogue.
Review of Monster!
