On This Day: April 7, 1982 - Basket Case Premiered in Theaters

  • Author Author Pete
  • Publish date Published Published
  • Reading time 1 min read

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On This Day: April 7, 1982 - Basket Case Premiered in Theaters
On this day April 7, 1982, the cult horror film Basket Case premiered in theaters, introducing audiences to one of the strangest and most unforgettable horror stories of the 80s. Directed by Frank Henenlotter, the low budget shocker followed a young man named Duane who carries around a locked basket containing his deformed, formerly conjoined twin — and that twin is out for revenge.

Starring Kevin Van Hentenryck, Terri Susan Smith, and Beverly Bonner, Basket Case quickly gained underground popularity for its bizarre premise, dark humor, and gruesome special effects. With a budget of only $35,000, the film became a cult classic and developed a loyal fanbase through midnight screenings and home video. Known for its gritty New York City setting and twisted charm, Basket Case stood out in a decade packed with slashers and supernatural horrors. It later spawned two sequels and remains a beloved oddity in horror history.

Fun fact: The now iconic basket used in the film was purchased at a local store for just a few dollars and became one of the most memorable props in horror cinema.

Trivia question: What does the main character Duane carry around with him throughout the movie Basket Case?
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  • Reading time 1 min read
  • Reading time 1 min read
  • Reading time 1 min read
  • Reading time 1 min read
  • Reading time 1 min read
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