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Little Shop of Horrors Review

Few films blend **horror, comedy, and musical theatre** with the satirical genius of **Little Shop of Horrors**. Released in **1986** and directed by Muppet maestro **Frank Oz**, this cinematic adaptation of the off-Broadway smash hit remains a cherished **cult classic**. It follows the tragically awkward florist assistant, **Seymour Krelborn** (**Rick Moranis**), who pines for his beautiful but timid co-worker, **Audrey** (**Ellen Greene**), while working at a failing flower shop on **Skid Row**.

The Temptation of Audrey II

Seymour’s fortunes change dramatically when he discovers a strange, exotic plant he names **Audrey II**. This initially small flora quickly transforms into a sassy, singing, **man-eating plant** with a booming baritone voice (provided by **Levi Stubbs**). The plant’s condition for success is simple: it needs *blood*. What follows is a brilliant **dark comedy musical** that skewers the American Dream and the seductive lure of quick fame. The musical core, featuring songs by the legendary team of **Alan Menken and Howard Ashman**, elevates the story, making morbid material toe-tappingly addictive.

Perfect Casting and Iconic Cameos

The casting is pitch-perfect. **Rick Moranis** embodies the hapless but earnest **Seymour Krelborn**, while **Ellen Greene** effortlessly reprises her stage role as the sweet, disaster-prone **Audrey**, cementing the film’s emotional heart. However, the film frequently steals its own thunder with incredible supporting turns. **Steve Martin’s** portrayal of the sadistic, motorcycle-riding dentist, Orin Scrivello D.D.S., is a standout scene-stealer, offering some of the most memorable and bizarre comedic moments in the entire **1986 musical movie**. The film expertly manages the tone, transitioning from catchy Doo-Wop numbers to genuinely unsettling, puppet-powered horror-comedy.

Despite Studio pressure forcing the use of the “happy ending” (though the director’s cut is available), the theatrical version remains a delightful ride. It’s a beautifully crafted **horror comedy** that uses its fantastic premise to explore themes of greed, ambition, and the price of getting everything you wish for. **Little Shop of Horrors** is essential viewing—a rare gem that truly satisfies.

Movie Information

  • Title: Little Shop of Horrors
  • Release Date: December 19, 1986
  • Director: Frank Oz
  • Stars: Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Vincent Gardenia, Steve Martin, Levi Stubbs (Voice)
  • Genre: Musical, Dark Comedy, Horror, Fantasy