The story may be complete bunkum, and the dialogue rather cheesy, but Antonio Margheriti's Cannibal Apocalype is still a great way to pass the time. With some deliciously juicy gore FX, a great turn by lead John Saxon, and a funky score by Alexander Blonksteiner, this Italian splatter pic tells of a group of Vietnam vets (Saxon, John Morghen and Tony King) who have contracted a virus which turns them into cannibals. Along with an infected nurse, they attempt to escape the police (and a biker gang) via the network of sewers under the city.
Margheriti keeps the action flowing nicely, only pausing slightly to throw in a sub-plot featuring a rather tasty teen who has the hots for Saxon. The blood runs regularly, and Giannetto De Rossi's great gore make-up is excellent. Highlights include a bloody tongue-biting and the infamous 'shotgun-blast to the belly' effect which is well worth the wait.
If you love the classic Italian zombie and cannibal movies of the 70s and 80s, then be sure to catch Cannibal Apocalypse (but make sure to see the uncut version!!!).
7.5 out of 10 (rounded up to 8 for IMDb).