15 Greatest Horror Movie Comedies

The People Under The Stairs has a definite serious overtone covering serious issues such as child abuse, kidnapping, murder, cannibalism, social divide and racism. However, the performances, accentuated levels of violence and dialogue definitely take the edge off with a number of blackly comical moments.

The story revolves around an oppressed black community being extorted by their white landlords. Ving Rhames’ burglar Leroy decides on revenge and attempts rob them – along with his partner and a young kid nicknamed ‘Fool’. The landlords – credited as Man and Woman – are played by Wendy Robie and Everett McGill, reprising their marital partnership seen in Twin Peaks.

Both performances are turned up to 11, Robie is a paranoid psychopath and McGill a cannibalistic, bondage suited monster. McGill telegraphs his anger and desperation to dispatch the intruders in his home to such a degree that it can only be either extremely terrifying or darkly hilarious.

We discover that the couples ‘daughter’ Alice (AJ Langer) is a physically and mentally abused prisoner. The couple have been kidnapping boys for years but none have lived up to their demanding standards and those that have failed (all of them) are kept as prisoners in the basement.

One of the undersung highlights of Wes Craven’s great career – this is an absolutely essential watch.