‘It’s Alive’
Larco Productions, 1974

starring: John P. Ryan, Sharon Farrell, James Dixon and Daniel Holzman
written and directed by: Larry Cohen

the plot: Frank Davies (Ryan) and his wife Lenore (Farrell) eagerly anticipate the arrival of their new baby. But once Lenore makes it to the hospital and into the delivery room, that anticipation quickly turns to horror when an unseen assailant massacres the medical staff treating her. Frank rushes into the delivery room only to find a bloodbath, with his wife as the only survivor. It's not long before the police deduce the culprit: the Davies’ newborn baby. Hideously mutated and sporting fangs, claws and a primal urge to kill, the baby escapes the hospital and makes its way across Los Angeles, slaughtering unsuspecting innocents. Meanwhile, Frank and Lenore’s marriage begins to fall apart as they debate the final fate of their child. Police Lieutenant Perkins (Dixon) aids them in finding the baby. But little do the Davies know that their newborn is closer than they think, and wants a little bit more than parental bonding.

why it's good: What’s not to love about mutant killer babies? “It’s Alive” is a cult classic, and for good reason. The ever-reliable Cohen gives viewers a B-movie treat filled with some sharp commentary on abortion and pollution, a creepy atmosphere and capable direction. Ryan leads a better than average cast; the weight he bears as a conflicted father charged with hunting, and possibly killing, his child is completely believable. Meanwhile, effects whiz Rick Baker (whose other credits include “Men in Black” and “Videodrome”) whips up a murderous infant that looks pretty scary, despite the film’s low-budget nature, while composer (and long-time Hitchcock collaborator) Bernard Herrmann crafts a suspenseful score. “It’s Alive” isn't as excessive as some of Cohen”s previous fare (like “The Stuff”), but it isn’t as muddled and overly complicated like some of his other work (like “God Told Me To”). It’s a simple, fun flick, good for anyone who sees through that cute façade and knows just how dangerous babies really are.

why you should own it: Warner Home Video’s DVD doesn’t feature much other than commentary by Cohen (who hints that a re-make may be in the offing). “It’s Alive” also, ahem, spawned two lesser sequels, “It Lives Again” and “It’s Alive 3: Island of the Alive.” Though the first film is worthwhile viewing, the sequels should be approached with caution.