Terrorists in the process of kidnapping a child get trapped in a house with an extremely deadly snake.
“Venom” (1981) faced early challenges when original director Tobe Hooper left the project just over a week into filming. Following his departure due to artistic conflicts, Piers Haggard took over, with the studio mandating a complete reshoot of all previously captured material.
The film’s story centers on a sophisticated crime plot where criminal mastermind Jacques Müller (Klaus Kinski) and his partner Louise Andrews (Susan George) target young Philip Hopkins (Lance Holcomb), the grandson of successful hotelier Howard Anderson (Sterling Hayden). Their scheme involves placing Louise as household staff and utilizing the family’s driver, Dave Averconnelly (Oliver Reed), as their connection inside.
The story takes a wild twist when Philip accidentally receives a deadly black mamba instead of a pet snake due to a mix-up at a local store. The snake was actually meant for toxicology researchers. The situation spirals out of control when Dave shoots a police officer who arrives with warnings about the dangerous reptile, leading to a standoff. The tension ratchets up as the black mamba breaks free, claiming one of the kidnappers as its first victim.
As both the police and the deadly snake close in, the film creates an intense atmosphere of confinement and fear. The kidnappers must now navigate their escape while facing dual threats: law enforcement outside and a lethal predator within.
Though commercially unsuccessful, with revenues of $5.2 million against a $9.7 million budget, the film has developed a dedicated following. It showcases sophisticated filmmaking techniques reminiscent of Spielberg and his classic “Jaws,” particularly in how it strategically reveals the snake. Haggard effectively uses the confined space of the British house to create an oppressive atmosphere.
The film benefits from outstanding performances by its lead actors, while its practical effects and authentic locations showcase the craftsmanship of pre-CGI cinema. This 4K release includes special bonus features that detail the film’s complicated development process.
An interesting side note reveals that Steven Spielberg had considered Klaus Kinski for the role of Toht in “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Kinski opted for “Venom” instead, citing better pay and openly criticizing the “Raiders” screenplay. Given later revelations about Kinski’s troubling personal life—particularly accusations made by his daughter Pola after his 1991 death—his absence from the Indiana Jones series may have been a blessing in disguise.
Available on 4K Ultra HD™ + Blu-ray™ and DVD March 25th
