If you loved the quirky horror-comedy 'Monster in the Closet' (1986), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that blend humor with monster mayhem, perfect for fans of campy, nostalgic scares. Whether you're revisiting this cult classic or discovering it for the first time, these picks will keep the fun (and frights) going.
The Boogens (1981)
Description: A group of miners accidentally unleash subterranean creatures that terrorize a small town. The film's focus on small, deadly creatures and its slow-building tension make it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The creatures were rarely shown on screen, relying more on suspense and sound effects to create fear. The film was largely forgotten until it gained a cult following in the 2000s.
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Gremlins (1984)
Description: This film features small, mischievous creatures that wreak havoc in a small town, blending horror with dark comedy. The creatures' unpredictable behavior and the film's mix of scares and humor make it a cult classic.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be much darker, with a scene where the gremlins attack a McDonald's. The famous 'don't feed them after midnight' rule was created to add a sense of danger to the creatures.
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Ghoulies (1985)
Description: This movie revolves around demonic creatures summoned by dark magic, causing terror in a household. The film's focus on small, malevolent beings and its campy horror tone make it a memorable entry in the genre.
Fact: The film's poster famously featured a ghoulie emerging from a toilet, though this scene was not in the movie. It was part of a marketing strategy to capitalize on the success of 'Gremlins.'
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The Stuff (1985)
Description: A mysterious, addictive dessert turns out to be a living organism that consumes its consumers. The film's blend of horror and satire, along with its focus on a small but deadly threat, makes it a cult classic.
Fact: The film was inspired by the popularity of yogurt in the 1980s. The titular 'stuff' was made from a combination of yogurt, marshmallow fluff, and food coloring.
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Critters (1986)
Description: A group of small, furry aliens escape from an intergalactic prison and terrorize a rural family. The film combines sci-fi elements with horror and comedy, focusing on the chaos caused by the tiny but deadly creatures.
Fact: The critters were designed by the Chiodo Brothers, who also worked on 'Killer Klowns from Outer Space.' The film spawned three sequels and a recent reboot series.
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Troll (1986)
Description: A young boy is transformed into a troll, and his family must navigate a world of magical creatures. The film combines fantasy and horror, with a focus on small, otherworldly beings causing chaos.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a much darker horror movie but was reworked to appeal to a younger audience. It spawned a sequel, 'Troll 2,' which is often considered one of the worst movies ever made.
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The Gate (1987)
Description: A group of kids accidentally unleash demonic forces from a hole in their backyard. The film blends horror with a child's perspective, creating a unique mix of fear and adventure.
Fact: The special effects were groundbreaking for the time, using a combination of stop-motion and puppetry. The film was one of the first to feature miniature demons terrorizing children.
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Munchies (1987)
Description: A group of small, gremlin-like creatures cause chaos in a small town. The film's blend of horror and comedy, along with its focus on mischievous creatures, makes it a fun and campy watch.
Fact: The film was intended as a direct parody of 'Gremlins,' with the creatures even resembling the Mogwai. It was produced by Roger Corman, known for his low-budget cult classics.
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Little Monsters (1989)
Description: A boy discovers a world of monsters living under his bed, leading to a mix of horror and comedy. The film's focus on childhood fears and its playful take on monsters make it a unique entry in the genre.
Fact: The film features early special effects work by the Chiodo Brothers, who also worked on 'Critters.' It was initially marketed as a family film but has since gained a cult following for its darker undertones.
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The Borrower (1991)
Description: An alien criminal is sent to Earth and begins terrorizing a city. The film's mix of sci-fi and horror, along with its focus on a small but deadly creature, makes it a unique entry in the genre.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be much darker but was reworked to include more humor. The creature effects were praised for their creativity and practicality.
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