Killer Robots & 80s Nostalgia: Chopping Mall (1986) Review

Simon (0:00)

Without further ado, let's get to my movie review of Chopping Mall. Chopping Mall, directed by Jim Wynorski, is a peculiar blend of horror and science fiction that takes place in the Park Plaza 2000 shopping centre. Released in 1986, this film attempts to merge the slasher genre with a futuristic twist, featuring killer robots instead of the usual masked villains. The plot revolves around a group of eight young employees who decide to throw an after-hours party in a mall furniture store, only to find themselves trapped with malfunctioning security robots that have turned deadly.

The film's premise is intriguing, with the mall's new security system developed by Securetronics including three protector robots designed to neutralise intruders. However, a lightning strike causes these robots to malfunction, turning them into relentless killers. The young partygoers, including the mild-mannered Ferdy Meisel, played by Tony O'Dell, and the proverbial girl next door Alison Parks, portrayed by Kelli Maroney, must survive the night locked inside the mall with these mechanical menaces. Despite its promising setup, Chopping Mall struggles to deliver genuine scares. The robots intended to be menacing come across as clunky and unintimidating, reminiscent of Johnny-Five from Short Circuit, but without the charm. The film's special effects, while occasionally impressive, such as a character's head exploding, fail to create any real tension. Instead, the movie leans heavily into its campy nature, offering more laughs than frights. The characters in Chopping Mall are typical of 1980s horror films, with little depth or development. They serve primarily as fodder for the robots, and their interactions are filled with clichéd dialogue and predictable actions. The film does, however, offer a nostalgic glimpse into the era, with its mall setting and youthful cast evoking memories of a time when shopping centres were social hubs. Director Jim Wynorski, known for his work in low-budget films, infuses Chopping Mall with a tongue-in-cheek humour that acknowledges its own absurdity. The movie doesn't take itself too seriously, which is both a strength and a weakness. While this approach allows for some entertaining moments, it also undermines any attempt at building suspense or horror.

Ultimately, Chopping Mall is a product of its time, appealing primarily to fans of 1980s B-movies and those who appreciate its kitschy charm. It's a film that doesn't quite know what it wants to be, oscillating between horror and comedy without fully committing to either. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it offers a unique and amusing experience for those willing to embrace its eccentricities. If you're in the mood for a light-hearted romp through a mall filled with killer robots, Chopping Mall might just be worth a watch.

That wraps up my review of Chopping Mall, and I'm giving it 2 stars out of 5 stars.

Thanks for listening. If you've liked this content, please like, subscribe, and it will be great to see you next time on Mindset Movie Reviews.