Long Pigs Review (2007)

Synopsis

A documentary by two desperate young filmmakers who stumble upon the ultimate subject, a 33 year old cannibalistic serial killer named Anthony McAllister.

My Thoughts

Have you ever watched a movie and halfway through think, Jesus Christ, should I be watching this?

That’s Long Pigs for you, and it’s one of those films that creeps into your brain, sets up shop, and refuses to leave, and I loved it.

Shot more as a mockumentary, Long Pigs follows a film crew documenting a cannibal named Anthony, who comes across like any other regular person you could easily like, it’s just he also likes to eat people, that’s all, we have have our quirks, right?

Anthony Alviano nails the performance as his namesake in the film, I mean, as you watch you know what he does, but you can’t help but also kind of think he’s alright if only he didn’t do that, and that’s rather an unsettling thought….Or was that just me?

A lot of the film feels quite real, like you’re actually watching a real life documentary rather than a film, and it’s basically MasterChef, but instead of a soufflé, he’s making human stew.

This is the films biggest strength, how authentic it comes across, nothing is done just for the sake of it because it’s a horror film, and the film really gets under your skin and stays with you.

So, if you like horror that doesn’t just jump out and scream boo! at you, but instead slowly burrows into your brain and makes you question why you ever decided to press play in the first place, then Long Pigs is for you.

It’s unsettling, darkly funny, and deeply disturbing in all the best ways.

Good Points

Anthony Alviano’s Performance – The guy is so convincing, you forget you’re watching a movie, and he plays a cannibal with such charm and ease that it’s genuinely disturbing.

Believable Documentary Style – It never feels like a traditional movie, and the editing, narration, and presentation make it seem like a real documentary.

Dark Humor That Actually Works – It balances horror with just the right amount of humor, and you will find yourself laughing at things you really shouldn’t be laughing at.

Bad Points

Not Much Plot Progression – It’s mostly a character study, which means not much actually happens in terms of story, so if you need twists and turns, you might get bored.

Some Supporting Actors Are Weak – While Alviano is phenomenal, a few of the other performances feel a little stiff, which can break the immersion.

Is It Worth Watching?

Long Pigs is definetly worth a watch, but it isn’t a film to just watch casually, and won’t be for everyone, but if you like some disturbing footage with some dark comedy elements, Long Pigs should be right up your alley.

Long Pigs On IMDB
Long Pigs Trailer

Where To Watch

It’s not available to stream on any services, but if you do a search, you should be able to find it…..

Director and Cast

Director – Chris Power & Nathan Hynes

Main Cast – Paul Fowles, Anthony Alviano, Shane Harbinson, Roger King, Nathan Hynes.