Review by EyeAskance

This tense, skillfully effectuated shocker spent a good many years lingering in relative obscurity, being largely unattainable outside of "grey market" trading circles. Now, more than three decades after its initial release, WHO CAN KILL A CHILD is finally getting the attention it deserves. The sagaciously conceptualized tale concerns an expecting young couple voyaging to a small island and finding that the adult population has declined considerably, as the resident children have gone inexplicably berserk and killed them off. With pint-size danger lurking at every turn, the couple must be fleet of foot and find a means of escape from the island. Defending themselves against an army of evil youths proves difficult, however, because...."who can kill a child"?

A singular horror film with able performances, first-rate direction, and effective filming locations which kindle a parched and desolate quality, recalling somewhat the unsettling flashback sequences in the closing moments of SUDDENLY, LAST SUMMER(1959). This chalk-dusted atmosphere of barren paucity and isolation is unique, and one of the key aspects contributing to the film's success. Genre fans might recognize one of the rancorous rugrats as Marian Salgado of DEMON WITCH CHILD(1976).

Strongly recommended. 7.5/10