"The Hills Have Eyes," directed by Wes Craven and released in 1977, is a cult classic horror film that explores themes of survival and the brutality of human nature. The poster for this film is both striking and disturbing, effectively capturing the raw and menacing atmosphere of the movie.
Visual Elements
The dominant feature of the poster is the image of Michael Berryman, who plays Pluto, one of the film's antagonists. His bald head, intense gaze, and menacing expression immediately draw the viewer's attention. His appearance is unsettling, evoking a sense of fear and curiosity about the character and the horrors he represents. The rugged, mountainous background reinforces the desolate and dangerous setting of the film.
The bottom part of the poster shows a family in a vulnerable position, surrounded by their camper vehicles. This smaller scene contrasts sharply with the close-up of Pluto, highlighting the stark difference between the innocent family and the malevolent force they encounter. The juxtaposition of these images underscores the film's central conflict and heightens the sense of impending doom.
Color Scheme
The poster utilizes a predominantly orange and black color scheme, which creates a stark, high-contrast visual that is both eye-catching and ominous. The orange background suggests heat and desolation, reminiscent of the desert setting where the film takes place. The black elements, including Pluto's shadowy figure and the rocky terrain, add depth and a sense of foreboding.
Typography and Title Design
The title "The Hills Have Eyes" is displayed in large, bold black letters at the top of the poster. The font is blocky and imposing, mirroring the rugged and brutal nature of the film's setting and themes. Below the title, the tagline reads, "A nice American family. They didn't want to kill. But they didn't want to die." This chilling statement sets the tone for the film, hinting at the violent and desperate struggle for survival that the family will face.
Tagline and Quotes
The tagline effectively conveys the central premise of the film, highlighting the ordinary nature of the family and the extraordinary, horrific circumstances they find themselves in. It suggests a transformation from innocence to savagery, a key theme in the movie.
Contextual Background
"The Hills Have Eyes" follows the Carter family, who find themselves stranded in the Nevada desert after their vehicle breaks down. Unbeknownst to them, the hills are inhabited by a cannibalistic clan that preys on travelers. The film explores the primal instincts that emerge when people are pushed to their limits and the thin veneer of civilization is stripped away.
The choice to feature Michael Berryman so prominently on the poster is significant, as his distinctive appearance is both memorable and symbolic of the film's themes of mutation and the consequences of nuclear testing (a backstory element in the film).
Conclusion
The poster for "The Hills Have Eyes" is a powerful piece of promotional material that effectively conveys the film's intense and unsettling atmosphere. The striking image of Michael Berryman, combined with the bold color scheme and ominous tagline, creates a sense of dread and anticipation. It captures the essence of the film's exploration of human savagery and the terrifying isolation of the desert setting.
The visual and textual elements work together to draw viewers in, promising a harrowing and unforgettable horror experience. The poster not only serves as a compelling advertisement but also as a lasting image that reflects the enduring impact of Wes Craven's classic horror film.