25 Years of Lake Placid: The Killer Croc Franchise That Won’t Die

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As a hardcore gamer and movie aficionado, I hold a special place in my heart for Steve Miner’s 1999 creature feature, Lake Placid. This film, much like its monster movie counterparts The Mummy and Deep Blue Sea, is a delightful blend of cheesiness, nostalgia, and effective use of CG and practical effects.

I hold a special affection for Steve Miner’s 1999 crocodile-themed thriller “Lake Placid.” Similar to its monster movie peers from that era, The Mummy and Deep Blue Sea, it can be quite cheesy at moments, distinctly reminiscent of the 90s, and skillfully combines CGI and physical effects.

Miner returned to the lake for the fourth time, having directed “Friday the 13th” Part 2 and 3 previously. On this occasion, however, a new type of massive, water-dwelling monster was unleashed. When a man became the monster’s latest meal, the local Game Warden and a New York paleontologist joined forces to determine the identity of the beast that claimed a human life. Indeed, it turned out to be a large crocodile with an insatiable hunger.

The outrageous antics are strengthened by humorous characters, such as Betty White’s crude portrayal, which significantly contributes to her renewed fame. In this production, Bill Pullman shines as the ordinary 90s hero. Oliver Platt and Brendan Gleeson add wit and cynicism, with the latter displaying a questionable accent.

During that creative period, the Big Croc creature was an enjoyable addition, but it pales in comparison to the favorites I previously mentioned. However, despite being less popular, the Big Croc series has resurfaced more frequently than both franchises in the recent past.

From a gamer’s perspective, I must admit that I’ve been disappointed by most of the games that followed Lake Placid. The creators seemed more focused on exploiting its name and concept rather than improving upon its original charm and allure.

Lake Placid 2 bites off more than it can chew

Eight years after the original release, debuting a sequel on SyFy may not be the strongest sign of quality. Sadly, Lake Placid 2 from 2007 falls short of the mark. Introducing three man-eating crocs that terrorize Lake Placid as a concept, but the movie itself failed to deliver in all other aspects.

With Sam McMurray from Raising Arizona and Drop Dead Gorgeous in the cast, the movie was amusing to some extent. However, it wouldn’t have come as a shock if the Lake Placid series had ended around that time.

In just a short span, Lake Placid 3 emerged in 2010, bringing newcomers up-to-speed with Lake Placid’s past violence, while reassuring them that things have improved. However, tranquility was disrupted when a child unwittingly raised baby crocs into massive monsters. Quality took a hit again, but remarkably, the franchise continued, linking films and characters.

In 2012, Lake Placid’s third installment, titled “Lake Placid: The Final Chapter,” brought back Yancy Butler from Kick Ass to rejoin the franchise. However, as is customary for horror film series, this was far from the last chapter. The movie itself lacked conviction and did not offer anything more than a decent paycheck for Robert Englund. It’s great that he received the compensation though.

Despite Death’s persistent attempt, Lake Placid managed to elude it in the late 90s. Instead, two formidable reptile franchises clashed in the waters of Lake Placid versus Anaconda. In the 2015 edition of this crossover event, Yancy Butler and Robert Englund reprised their roles. With a significant budget allocation likely towards these familiar faces, the production unfortunately succumbed to subpar CGI and an uninspired, directionless showdown between the monstrous beasts.

Croc tales go on

Without a doubt, Lake Placid had been wrapped up with five entries by that point. However, surprising us all was the emergence of a sixth installment in 2018, aiming to revitalize the franchise’s history through a new take on things – Lake Placid: Legacy.

Before watching Lake Placid: Legacy, there are two appealing aspects. First, it features Joe Pantoliano, an actor I enjoy. Second, the poster boasts an impressive design despite some less-than-professional touch-ups. However, the movie itself may not live up to your anticipation. In simpler terms, the enticing factors are present beforehand, but the film might disappoint with unmet expectations.

If the script was filled with overused cliches and forced in delivery, you’d have downed double the required number of shots to reach the midpoint.

Perhaps six years after Lake Placid: Legacy, nature might be recovering. There’s a possibility that a revival could capture the essence of the original idea. However, I have my doubts. The poorly executed CGI monster from Lake Placid may still lurk, ready to consume our time, patience, and limbs in equal proportion.

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2024-07-17 21:11