Mapleton Mail

The Return of the Creature Feature, Done Right

MOVIE REVIEW
Piranha Women

 (adult content) -     

Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 2022
Runtime: 1h 4m
Director(s): Fred Olen Ray
Writer(s): Fred Olen Ray
Cast: Jon Briddell, Houston Rhines, Shary Nassimi, Carrie Overgaard, Bobby Rice, Richard Gabai, Sof Puchley
Where To Watch: Available to purchase from Full Moon Direct www.fullmoondirect.com and to stream on Full Moon Features


RAVING REVIEW: PIRANHA WOMEN, another Full Moon Feature, for the most part, is an absolute treat. Its breakneck speed and short running time of under 60 minutes hark back to the heyday of 1950s creature features.


The legendary Fred Olen Ray directed this film and has established himself as a king of the B-movie genre, with over 164 titles to his credit. After a detour into the realm of cheesy TV movies (specifically the Christmas genre,) Ray returns to his roots with PIRANHA WOMEN. The film follows the protagonist, Richard, on a quest to find his girlfriend, who has disappeared after seeking medical assistance from the questionable Dr. Sinclair. As Richard delves deeper into the dark world of the piranha women, he realizes that he's in for the ride of his life.

PIRANHA WOMEN may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is a highly entertaining film that appeals to B-movies fans. Despite its short running time, the film still packs a powerful punch with its hilarity, horror, and just the right amount of cheese. Honestly, this is easily one of my favorite Full Moon films (outside of the PUPPET MASTER universe.) This would have probably been a 4-star rating if it weren’t for the unnecessary CGI that was added (you’ll know the moment you see “them.”) While this is not a cinematic masterpiece, it knew what it was and worked within those limitations. 

In conclusion, PIRANHA WOMEN is a film that will sate your appetite for exploitation. Whether you're a fan of mad science or half-fish/half-naked women, this film delivers the classic B-movie experience that fans of the genre adore. Get ready for a wild ride! (and stay out of the rain!)

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[photo courtesy of FULL MOON DIRECT]