Cockroach Love Stories: 10 Melodramas to Watch

Description: Although not directly about cockroaches, Luis Buñuel's surrealist film uses the metaphor of insects to explore themes of social decay and the breakdown of human relationships, making it a fitting addition to this list.

Fact: The film was remade in 2016 as "The Exterminating Angel" by Tomasz Wasilewski, focusing more on the melodramatic aspects.

Description: This disaster film features a swarm of killer bees, but its melodramatic elements come from the human stories of love, sacrifice, and survival amidst the chaos.

Fact: The film was a box office flop but has since been appreciated for its campy charm and over-the-top special effects.

Description: This anthology film includes a segment titled "They're Creeping Up on You," where a man obsessed with cleanliness faces an ironic end by cockroaches. The segment explores themes of isolation and the consequences of one's actions, with a touch of dark humor.

Fact: Directed by George A. Romero and written by Stephen King, this film was inspired by the EC horror comics of the 1950s.

Description: Although primarily a horror film, "The Fly" has elements of melodrama with its tragic love story between a scientist and his girlfriend as he slowly transforms into a human-insect hybrid.

Fact: This film was a remake of the 1958 film of the same name. Jeff Goldblum's performance earned him a Saturn Award nomination.

Description: A horror film with melodramatic undertones, "The Nest" features a town overrun by genetically altered cockroaches. The love story between the sheriff and a scientist adds a layer of emotional depth to the survival narrative.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use computer-generated imagery for its insect effects.

Description: This quirky comedy features Joe, who moves into a New York apartment filled with singing and dancing cockroaches. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and acceptance, making it a unique entry in the melodrama genre.

Fact: The film was originally a short film before being expanded into a feature-length movie. The cockroaches were voiced by a variety of actors, including Billy West, who is known for his voice work in "Futurama."

Description: While not strictly a melodrama, "Mimic" delves into themes of love and survival in a world where genetically engineered cockroaches evolve into human mimics. The film's romantic subplot between the main characters adds depth to this sci-fi thriller.

Fact: Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this film marked his first Hollywood project. It was based on a short story by Donald A. Wollheim.

Description: This psychological thriller involves a woman who becomes convinced that she and her lover are infested with bugs, leading to a descent into paranoia and love. The film uses the metaphor of bugs to explore deeper themes of mental health and relationships.

Fact: Directed by William Friedkin, known for "The Exorcist," this film was adapted from a play by Tracy Letts.

Description: A sequel to "The Fly," this film continues the tragic love story, now focusing on the son of the original scientist, who also faces the horrors of genetic mutation.

Fact: The film was not as well-received as its predecessor but has gained a cult following over time.

Description: A satirical comedy about a giant cockroach that threatens Cincinnati, this film includes a love story between a scientist and his assistant, who must work together to save the city and their budding romance.

Fact: This low-budget film was a cult hit, known for its over-the-top special effects and humor.