Movie review: Tremors: Shrieker Island

 A rich playboy illegally relocates some Graboids to a private island for trophy hunting. When the Graboids get loose Burt shows up only to find an old flame complicating things and an annoying new assistant he doesn't want.

Michael Gross (Burt), Jackie Cruz (Freddie), Jon Heder (Jimmy), Richard Brake (Bill), Caroline Langrishe (Jas), Cassie Clare (Anna), Sahajak Boonthanakit (Mr. Bowtie), Bear Williams (Mohawk), Ron Smoorenburg (Hunter).

Tremors: Shrieker Island launches as we have come to expect from this franchise; with brief linking to previous episodes and a refresher on characters. With Burt now on his way to a private island infested with Graboids, we are treated to a bit of character depth. Add some explosions, monsters, a laugh or two, and a touch of emotional drama and the rest of the film is fairly predictable through the end. Sadly, this franchise seems to be losing what little energy it had left.

Acting was decent with Gross delivering his usual. Cruz was a surprising and enjoyable addition and delivered well. Heder was okay but didn’t feel authentic. Brake delivered as always, and the remainder of the supporting cast was enjoyable.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good with nice use of scenery and a realistic feel. The CGI however was a bit overdone with Graboids seeming to have learned new gymnastics moves. Physical action was good. Dialogue as expected was corny and campy, though a bit toned down. Sound and soundtrack are fitting.

In the end, Tremors: Shrieker Island is a decent entry in the franchise, but probably not the best. Most of the components from previous films are here, they just aren't used well and don't really develop the energy or comedy we have come to expect.

With some foul language, creature violence, gore, and mild adult situations, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2020
Reviewed: 10.26.20
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Action Thriller, Action & Adventure, Action Sci-Fi, Adventure

copyright ©2020 Dave Riedel