Cannibal! The Musical is a 1993 American musical black comedy film directed, written, and co-scored by Trey Parker. It is the first full-length feature film from Parker and his long-time creative partner, Matt Stone, who would later go on to create the hit animated series South Park and the Broadway musical The Book of Mormon.
The film is a satirical and absurd retelling of the true story of Alfred "Alferd" Packer, a 19th-century prospector who was convicted of cannibalism in the Colorado Territory. The story is presented as a musical, with the characters breaking into song and dance numbers as they face the harrowing conditions of being lost in the snow-covered Rocky Mountains.
Here's a breakdown of the film:
* Plot: The story follows Alferd Packer as he recounts his version of events to a newspaper reporter while awaiting his execution. He explains how he and five companions, on a quest for gold and love, became lost in a brutal winter storm. As they starve, they resort to unthinkable horrors, including, as the title suggests, cannibalism.
* Tone and Style: The movie is known for its low-budget, amateurish, and deliberately goofy style. It's filled with dark humor, slapstick comedy, and intentionally cheesy special effects. The musical numbers are a key element, with songs that are both catchy and ridiculous, parodying the style of classic musicals like Oklahoma!
* Production: The film was made by Parker and Stone while they were film students at the University of Colorado at Boulder. They raised a small budget and filmed it with the help of their friends and fellow students. The low-budget, indie spirit is a major part of its charm.
* Legacy: Cannibal! The Musical has since gained a cult following. It's often viewed as a precursor to the signature humor and style of South Park, showcasing the creative duo's love for satire, parody, and over-the-top, often offensive, comedy. It has also been adapted into a stage musical.