Basket Case
Performance & Direction: Basket Case Review
Last updated: February 14, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Basket Case (1982) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Basket Case features a noteworthy lineup led by Kevin Van Hentenryck . Supported by the likes of Terri Susan Smith and Beverly Bonner , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Basket Case
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1982, Basket Case is a Horror, Comedy film directed by Frank Henenlotter. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Kevin Van Hentenryck.
Ending Explained: Basket Case
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Frank Henenlotter, Basket Case concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Kevin Van Hentenryck, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Basket Case reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Basket Case?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Horror films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Kevin Van Hentenryck or the director
- Want a few scares and creepy atmosphere
Box Office Collection: Basket Case
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $35.0K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Basket Case Budget
The estimated production budget for Basket Case is $35.0K. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Basket Case
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Where to Watch Basket Case Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeBasket Case Parents Guide & Age Rating
1982 AdvisoryWondering about Basket Case age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Basket Case is 91 minutes (1h 31m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.2/10, and global performance metrics, Basket Case is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1982 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Basket Case worth watching?
Basket Case is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 6.2/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Basket Case parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Basket Case identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Basket Case?
The total duration of Basket Case is 91 minutes, which is approximately 1h 31m long.
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Critic Reviews for Basket Case
***Gory and amusing horror about separated Siamese twins in New York City, one vengeful*** A young man from upstate New York, Duane Bradley (Kevin Van Hentenryck), travels to the seedy side of Manhattan with a mysterious wicker basket, looking for a couple of dubious doctors. “Basket Case” (1982) is a very bloody ‘B’ horror with (mostly) low-key comedy that’s actually funny. The quaint low-budget effects consist of rubber puppetry & gloves with some stop-motion unapproved by Ray Harryhausen. Blonde Terri Susan Smith shines as Duane’s potential girlfriend, Sharon, while Beverly Bonner heartily rises to the challenge as Duane’s friendly next-door neighbor in hotel, Casey. The flick is entertaining so I can see how it’s become a cult favorite, but the focus on the seedy side of Manhattan makes for a somewhat unpalatable experience. Yet it’s interesting going back in time to New York City in 1981. Some people lambaste “Basket Case” for being “amateurish” but, come on, it only cost $35,000, which would translate to about $100,000 today. The film runs 1 hour, 31 minutes, and was shot in Manhattan with some stuff done in Glens Falls, New York. GRADE: B-
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
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