Retro Blood 161: Eatin Alive! (1980)

James Kline and J.H. Alison continue Retro Blood’s “Human Meat: What’s for Dinner?” month with a deep dive into Eaten Alive!—a gritty 1980 cannibal cult classic where snake venom and wild rituals are just the beginning. Buckle up for this intense journey into the depths of jungle cult paradise!

The boys kick things off with quick takes on the movie’s raw and relentless scenes of snake killings and jungle carnage. In this week’s history segment, we explore what was happening in the world of metal and pro wrestling around the film’s release on March 20, 1980. We cover Bob Backlund’s exhibition match against Jose Estrada and dive into Def Leppard’s debut album On Through the Night, a powerful entry that kicked off their rise in the metal scene.

Then, we break down the production backstory of Eaten Alive!, from its extensive use of stock footage to its death metal–esque alternate titles and casting choices, including appearances by adult film actors. And then, it’s time for the full film review: Sheila’s shocking transformation in New York, the ritualistic brainwashing in the jungle via snake blood, the gruesome fate of Dina, and the unsettling presence of the cannibal cult.

Streaming now on all platforms! 🍖🩸 #RetroBlood #EatenAlive #HumanMeatMonth #CannibalHorror #ProWrestlingHistory #DefLeppard