Dive into the Top ’90s Monster Movie Now Streaming on a New Platform

New Life for ‘Tremors’: How a ’90s Cult Classic Thrives on Streaming

Embracing Nostalgia: ‘Tremors’ Lands on Prime Video

Fans of ’90s horror are in for a treat this October as the iconic film, “Tremors,” starring Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward, makes its way to Prime Video. This monstrous feature has captured audiences with its thrilling plot and now offers viewers a nostalgic ride through the spooky season. Garnering an impressive 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes with a Certified Fresh label, “Tremors” remains a cherished piece of horror cinema.

The film transports audiences to the remote town of Perfection, Nevada, which is besieged by gigantic, prehistoric worms intent on wiping out humanity. Local handymen Val and Earl, portrayed by Bacon and Ward, must muster the courage to combat these relentless creatures.

A Clash with Monsters in Perfection, Nevada

According to the Rotten Tomatoes synopsis, repairmen Val McKee and Earl Bassett are weary of their mundane desert life. As they plan to leave, they discover a series of mysterious deaths and encounter a seismologist (played by Finn Carter) studying unusual subterranean activity. With assistance from an eccentric couple (Reba McEntire and Michael Gross), the team fights to survive against the monstrous, flesh-eating worms.

Directed by Ron Underwood (“City Slickers,” “Mighty Joe Young”), the film also stars Finn Carter, Bobby Jacoby, Charlotte Stewart, Victor Wong, and Ariana Richards. Produced primarily using practical effects, “Tremors” showcases impressive animatronics and creature designs that have stood the test of time.

From Cult Phenomenon to Expansive Franchise

Initially released in January 1990—a period typically associated with lesser-promoted films—”Tremors” exceeded expectations by grossing over $16 million against its $10 million budget. Despite lacking significant marketing support from Universal Pictures, it captivated horror enthusiasts worldwide. Upon its home video release, the film became one of the year’s most rented VHS tapes, prompting Universal to recognize its potential to expand.

Although Kevin Bacon and Reba McEntire did not return for the sequel, “Tremors 2: Aftershocks,” the franchise continued to evolve. Today, the “Tremors” series boasts seven films (mostly direct-to-video), a TV show, and an unreleased TV reboot episode. The one constant character throughout the franchise has been Burt Gummer, the survivalist played by Michael Gross.

‘Tremors’: A Lasting Legacy

“Tremors” remains a testament to the enduring appeal of unique horror narratives infused with humor and suspense. As it finds a new audience on Prime Video, the film continues to be a beloved classic, demonstrating that great storytelling and inventive creature design can create lasting legacies.