While the late John Lafia is well-known in genre circles for his contributions to the Child’s Play franchise, he also has another B-movie gem under his belt.
Lafia wrote and directed 1993’s Man’s Best Friend, which sees a genetically modified dog Max go on a rampage in suburbia.
Fronted by Ally Sheedy (Short Circuit, The Breakfast Club) alongside genre icon Lance Henriksen, who plays the evil Dr. Jarret.
Think of Man’s Best Friend as almost the anti-Beethoven as our rogue Max goes on a killing spree using its enhanced powers to do things such as running up the side of a tree and also swallow a bird whole. Its other talents include acid urine, raptor-like claws and being able to run up to 50mph.
Employing the skills of Kevin Yagher and his special effects team, who Lafia had worked with on Child’s Play 2, they are able to create some truly bonkers set pieces that have only aged like a fine wine.
As a New Line vehicle, we also get a random cameo from Bob Shaye, which is always nice to see plus some voice work from Frank Welker.
Sheedy is reporter Lori who is investigating stories about animal cruelty, relating to the work of Dr. Jarret, and by chance adopts the dog not knowing its hidden bloodlust.
While not quite Cujo, Man’s Best Friend is well worth a rediscovery, especially as its celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Bloody Flicks 