Snapper is a 30 minute documentary about two friends in Worcester Massachusetts who decided to make a horror movie about a killer snapping turtle. They worked with a local effects guy to build a turtle, but could only afford to construct the head. There was a smaller turtle for full body shots.
In 1991 they shot footage for a trailer to try to promote interest and get financial backing for the project. The actors were typical of any indie film from the early 90s. They had a stuntman who went all out for stunts, such as setting himself on fire and falling off a fire escape, or crashing a car.
They shot on film because they wanted to be seen as real filmmakers. They had high hopes for responses when they sent the trailer out, but nothing ever came from it and the project was scrapped.
This is a really interesting documentary and a nice peek into regional indie filmmaking in the late 80/early 90s. There is behind the scenes footage and interviews with both filmmakers and the effects guy. The filmmakers are still friends, have a great fondness for the film, and seem like nice guys. The effects guy was also a sculptor and went on to sculpt Star Wars figures for Hasbro.
I’m not sure if this is available online or dvd yet. I saw it at a showing with another indie movie. The director John Campopiano was there and seemed like a really nice guy. He also also made Unearthed and Untold: The Path to Pet Semetary.
I really enjoyed this. At 30 minutes, it’s leaves you wanting more, which is much better than overstaying it’s welcome. The topic was interesting since I love regional indie movies from the 80s/90s. Unlike today when anyone can make a movie, you had to be dedicated and really make an effort to shoot a film.
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