We know right from the opening seconds of SILENT PREDATORS, when we see a truck hauling a huge crate marked: "Danger... Handle With Extreme Caution... Venomous Reptile", that we're in for another killer snake movie. When the obvious happens, and the creature is unleashed, we know we're in for a treat.
20 years later, the citizenry of a small desert town are under attack by an army of slithering super snakes. Could it have anything to do with the new housing development that's being constructed nearby?
Harry Hamlin stars as the new Fire Chief, barely able to settle into his position before the deaths begin. Mr. Hamlin plays his part in a low-key fashion, which lends a calming effect amid the growing chaos. Shannon Sturges plays the love interest, and employee of the loathesome real estate developer (Jack Scalia). Also, watch for Patty "The Bad Seed" McCormack as the local pet shop owner.
Based on an early screenplay by John Carpenter, this TV movie isn't bad. In fact, it's an above-average entry in the "animal attack" subgenre. The rattlesnakes are suitably scary, and their "snake vision" shots are effective. There's also the obligatory, greed-driven cover-up to help keep the goodguys on their toes.
Highly recommended for fans of this subgenre...
