Habitat 1998 Horror Movie Review

Yes, it’s finally happened. We’ve wiped out the ozone layer, causing the earth to become a scorched, blasted wasteland. Thankfully, mankind has adjusted by wearing funny hats and carrying umbrellas around. Meanwhile, a scientist named Hank Symes (Tcheky karyo) is working on a solution through strange botanical experiments. He is developing plants and fungi that could replenish the planet. One such experiment has already led to death and destruction, forcing Symes, his wife (Alice Krige from Ghost Story, Star Trek: First Contact, and Sleepwalkers), and their teenage son (Balthazar Getty from Feast) to relocate to the small town of Pleasanton, USA. They’ve barely settled in before dad starts his wild experiments again, leading to an accident. Symes is turned into a cloud of flying, sentient spores, and the new homestead mutates into a jungle full of unheard of plant species’! This all sounds fascinating, but the execution is a bit clunky and the cheeze is quite pungeant at times, especially when we are introduced to young Symes’ highschool, and the movie takes a turn toward KARATE KID-land. Teen-Symes is surrounded by homicidal jock types in his gym class. His coach is a sadistic, brain-free neanderthal. All of these idiots conspire to make this kid’s life miserable (and shorter). Back at home, the house’s interior is now a tropical paradise for mum to wander through. Of course, the town fascists can’t just leave well enough alone, and soon plot the annihilation of all things green. This leads to a finalé that isn’t very breathtaking. HABITAT has it’s moments, but not many. Alice Krige is as eerily alluring as ever, and even sheds her clothing! Laura Harris follows suit! Still, there’s something missing from this story. Tension? Mystery? Suspense?? Perhaps all three…