10 Movies Like Chopping Mall You Can’t Miss | Similar-List

The 1980s and early 1990s were a golden age for sci-fi horror, where filmmakers embraced outlandish concepts, quirky characters, and sometimes laughable special effects. This era gave rise to a unique subgenre of cult classics that still captivate audiences today. Chopping Mall, a film that seamlessly blends absurdity, camp, and a sprinkle of gore, is one such iconic example. Despite its humble beginnings and over-the-top premise, it has become a fan favorite, celebrated for its unapologetic cheesiness and surprising entertainment value. If you’re a fan of Chopping Mall, there’s a treasure trove of similarly delightful and quirky films from the 80s and 90s that will scratch that same nostalgic itch for fun, horror, and absurdity.

At its core, Chopping Mall thrives on a premise that’s as outlandish as it is entertaining: a group of teenagers, hanging out in a mall overnight, are hunted by malfunctioning security robots, known as "Killbots," after a lightning strike causes them to go haywire. What follows is a thrilling, yet comedic, night of survival, where the teens fight to escape the mechanical menace. It’s a film that never takes itself too seriously, yet remains shockingly fun despite (or because of) its absurd premise.

The tone of Chopping Mall is best described as lighthearted horror with a heavy dose of camp. The film offers no pretensions—what you see is what you get: killer robots, teenagers in peril, and a dash of slasher-style antics. The cheesy special effects, including infamous hand-drawn electric shock graphics, add to the film’s charm, making it clear that the film never intended to be high art. Instead, it’s a ride that embraces its ridiculousness. The carefree characters, who seem more preoccupied with making out and partying than worrying about their lives, only enhance the film's fun, absurd atmosphere. And it’s this balance of light-heartedness and horror that keeps the viewer engaged in its playful terror.

The characters in Chopping Mall are your typical 80s slasher fare: attractive teens with questionable decision-making skills. They may not be the sharpest tools in the shed, but that’s part of the fun. There’s the requisite teen partying, kissing, and bad choices, all leading to situations that are both funny and unnerving. These likable, if sometimes dim-witted, characters aren’t quite “heroes” in the traditional sense, but they’re easy to root for as they band together to survive a night of robot-induced chaos. Their charm lies in their predictability—every one of them is a caricature of the classic 80s slasher archetypes, but that's exactly what makes them endearing.

Although Chopping Mall didn’t set box office records, it quickly garnered a cult following. With its campy charm and heart-pounding yet funny robot attacks, it became a staple of 80s horror enthusiasts. The film’s success is so enduring that even modern directors like James Wan have expressed interest in remaking the film, proving that its influence on the horror genre remains strong. Fans continue to celebrate Chopping Mall for its unapologetically cheesy blend of horror and humor—a rare gem that manages to be both thrilling and laughable.

If Chopping Mall left you craving more nostalgic sci-fi horror madness, the following films are guaranteed to deliver that same wild, camp-filled ride. Each of these films brings something uniquely absurd to the table, blending horror, sci-fi, and plenty of quirky charm that will leave you laughing and screaming in equal measure.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: Exploring Cult Horror Gems

Re-Animator (1985)

If you’re a fan of the quirky, campy horror of Chopping Mall, then Re-Animator should definitely be on your radar. This film follows the story of Dr. Herbert West, a brilliant but twisted scientist who has developed a serum that can bring the dead back to life—though, unfortunately, with less-than-desirable outcomes. The film features standout performances by Jeffrey Combs as the obsessed Dr. West and Barbara Crampton, who also starred in Chopping Mall, bridging the two films with their shared 80s horror charm.

Adapted from H.P. Lovecraft’s 1922 novella Herbert West–Reanimator, the film blends dark comedy with grisly horror, offering a bizarre mix of absurdity and gore. Despite its shock value, Re-Animator remains a cult favorite thanks to its dark humor, disturbing practical effects, and memorable characters. Much like Chopping Mall, the film doesn’t shy away from cheesy special effects, but the over-the-top gore and eerie atmosphere give it a distinctive edge.

On a shoestring budget of around $1 million, Re-Animator managed to gross over $2 million at the box office, securing enough success to spawn two sequels: The Bride of Re-Animator in 1990 and Beyond Re-Animator in 2003. Its lasting impact is a testament to its ability to mix visceral horror with a comedic undercurrent, making it a must-watch for fans of 80s horror with a flair for the absurd.

Much like Chopping Mall, Re-Animator features a blend of surprisingly graphic and hilarious kills. The film’s original cut was deemed too gory for an R-rating, but after some edits, it found its way to theaters—and has since become famous for its unrated director’s cut. With its unabashed approach to gore and dark humor, Re-Animator continues to hold a special place in the hearts of horror aficionados, cementing its status as one of the quintessential 80s cult classics.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: A Dive into Cult Horror Thrills

Brainscan (1994)

For fans of Chopping Mall who enjoy a blend of sci-fi and horror with a dash of 90s nostalgia, Brainscan offers a similarly wild ride. Directed by John Flynn, this 1994 film centers on a teenager named Michael (played by Edward Furlong), who stumbles upon a new virtual reality game that promises to offer an ultra-realistic experience. However, things take a deadly turn when the game begins to blur the line between fantasy and reality, leading Michael to unknowingly commit murders that seem all too real.

The film taps into the era's fascination with emerging technologies, making it an interesting time capsule of the early 90s. Virtual reality, which was still a relatively new concept in mainstream media, is used as the perfect conduit for horror, turning a seemingly innocent video game into a nightmare. Michael’s descent into madness and guilt is compounded by the appearance of a sinister character known as "The Trickster," who acts as a guide to the increasingly deadly game. With its twisted premise, Brainscan mixes psychological horror with surreal, almost Lynchian moments, creating an atmosphere that is both unsettling and strangely compelling.

Much like Chopping Mall, Brainscan blends elements of dark humor with its horror, making it a quirky yet engaging experience. The film embraces the campy side of the genre, with cheesy effects and over-the-top characters, but it also delivers some surprisingly tense and creepy moments. While it didn’t receive widespread acclaim upon its initial release, Brainscan has gained a cult following for its inventive premise and its ability to tap into the anxieties of technology and gaming, making it a must-see for fans of 90s horror.

Brainscan offers the perfect mix of absurdity and horror for fans of Chopping Mall, delivering a fun, nostalgic trip through the darker corners of 90s cinema. While it may not be a traditional slasher, its exploration of virtual reality, teen angst, and deadly consequences makes it an unexpected gem for anyone who loves cheesy yet surprisingly effective horror flicks from this era. If you’re into Chopping Mall’s blend of teen antics and absurd danger, Brainscan’s mix of teen drama and virtual terror will hit the spot.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: More Cult Classics You’ll Love

Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)

If Chopping Mall left you craving more offbeat horror with a dose of camp, Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a perfect next pick. Directed by the Chiodo brothers, this 1988 cult classic blends sci-fi horror with dark comedy, delivering a unique experience that’s equal parts bizarre and terrifying. The film’s plot is as ridiculous as its title suggests: a group of alien clowns from space land on Earth and begin abducting, killing, and eating humans in the most absurdly entertaining ways possible.

What sets Killer Klowns apart from other horror films is its unapologetic embrace of absurdity. From killer popcorn that explodes into a deadly cloud of smoke to a balloon animal that transforms into a deadly weapon, the film takes full advantage of the grotesque potential of clowns, combining freakish visuals with slapstick humor. These space-faring clowns may be one of the most ludicrous monsters ever imagined, yet their antics create an atmosphere of fun that makes them oddly endearing.

The film’s tone is an intentional mix of horror and humor, making it a perfect companion for fans of Chopping Mall. Where Chopping Mall relies on killer robots and mall mayhem, Killer Klowns leans into its wild premise with creativity and a sense of playfulness. The movie’s low-budget special effects—though cheesy by today’s standards—are actually a big part of its charm. The clowns themselves, designed with oversized faces, bright colors, and otherworldly features, stand out as one of the most memorable creatures in horror cinema.

Like Chopping Mall, Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it still delivers some genuinely eerie moments. Whether it's the eerie circus music or the chilling sight of a clown car full of alien invaders, the film balances its goofy premise with a touch of menace. The movie may not be what you’d expect from a typical sci-fi horror film, but it’s undeniably a classic, thanks to its imaginative use of humor and horror.

With its campy nature, memorable characters, and playful take on the alien invasion genre, Killer Klowns from Outer Space remains a beloved favorite among fans of quirky, off-the-wall horror. If you enjoyed the absurdity and fun of Chopping Mall, you’ll find plenty to love in this tale of killer clowns wreaking havoc on a small town. It’s a film that’s perfect for a midnight marathon with friends, full of laughs, scares, and a whole lot of popcorn.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: More Cult Horror Flicks to Dive Into

From Beyond (1986)

If Chopping Mall sparked your love for quirky, off-the-wall 80s horror, then From Beyond is a must-see. Directed by Stuart Gordon, who also helmed Re-Animator, this 1986 adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft’s short story takes the bizarre and grotesque to a whole new level. Just like Chopping Mall, it mixes campy elements with genuine horror, creating a film that’s equal parts strange and terrifying.

The plot revolves around a scientist, Dr. Crawford Tillinghast, who invents a machine capable of stimulating the pineal gland—unlocking the ability to see into alternate dimensions and horrifying creatures that exist just beyond the veil of our reality. But as with many mad scientist stories, things quickly spiral out of control, leading to body horror, grotesque transformations, and supernatural creatures that threaten the very fabric of reality. It’s a madcap blend of science fiction, body horror, and mind-bending terror—much like the chaos that unfolds in Chopping Mall as the teens are stalked by malfunctioning robots.

What truly sets From Beyond apart, however, is its emphasis on the grotesque. The practical effects—though not as high-budget as those in today’s films—are fantastically unsettling, with incredible creature designs that make your skin crawl. The physical transformation of characters as they interact with the machine is disturbing and shocking in the best possible way. It’s a film that pulls no punches when it comes to body horror, featuring disembodied limbs, grotesque monsters, and strange, shifting realities.

Like Chopping Mall, From Beyond is unapologetically over-the-top, with moments of humor and absurdity that help to balance the deeply disturbing scenes. The film features some of the same dry, dark humor that makes Chopping Mall so enjoyable, offering levity amidst the madness. The characters, too, feel very much like those from Chopping Mall: flawed, fun, and deeply involved in a situation they have no idea how to handle.

Despite its budget constraints, From Beyond has garnered a cult following for its unflinching commitment to weirdness. The movie is never shy about its strange premise or its gruesome content, and that’s part of what makes it so endearing. Much like Chopping Mall, From Beyond is the kind of film that earns its cult status through a mix of fun, scares, and creativity.

If you enjoyed the campiness and offbeat thrills of Chopping Mall, you’ll likely appreciate From Beyond for its similar approach to genre-bending horror. It’s a film that doesn’t just embrace its strange premise—it celebrates it. And like Chopping Mall, it provides an entertaining mix of absurdity, gore, and fun that has kept audiences coming back for more. Whether you’re drawn to body horror, bizarre creatures, or outlandish science fiction, From Beyond is a perfect addition to your cult horror movie watchlist.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: Explore More Cult Horror Classics

Critters (1986)

If Chopping Mall delivered thrills from killer robots, Critters brings you the chaotic terror of tiny, carnivorous aliens wreaking havoc in a small American town. Released in 1986 and directed by Stephen Herek, Critters is a campy, creature-feature horror film that pairs sci-fi elements with dark humor—making it a perfect fit for fans of Chopping Mall’s mix of absurdity, suspense, and 80s nostalgia.

The plot follows a group of small, furry aliens (the "Critters") who crash-land in a quiet rural town and begin terrorizing the residents. With sharp teeth, insatiable appetites, and a fast-growing ability to multiply, these critters quickly become a serious threat. They’re not just creepy, but also absurdly dangerous—slithering into vents, causing chaos in kitchens, and making use of their tiny size to sneak past human defenses. The human characters, a family living on a farm, must band together to survive the onslaught.

Similar to Chopping Mall, Critters balances the line between horror and comedy with ease. It’s not all terror—the film thrives on its absurdity and tongue-in-cheek humor. The contrast between the goofy, almost cartoonish behavior of the Critters and the tension of the characters trying to survive is a big part of what makes the movie so much fun. There’s something inherently charming about seeing these small but deadly creatures wreak havoc in such unexpected, everyday environments. The 80s practical effects, with puppets and animatronics, give the Critters an old-school vibe that holds up surprisingly well, even today.

What makes Critters so enjoyable to watch alongside Chopping Mall is its embrace of the low-budget, high-energy style of filmmaking typical of many cult classics from the 80s. The film delivers plenty of scares, but it’s never too serious about itself, giving the audience permission to laugh as much as they’re frightened. You have teenagers trying to fend off alien creatures, a lovable drunk bounty hunter (played by a pre-fame Billy Zane), and a ton of quirky moments that elevate the film’s charm.

Much like Chopping Mall, Critters also spawned sequels, each offering more outrageous scenarios and even bigger, more ridiculous creatures. The franchise became a beloved staple for horror fans, in large part because of its balance of fun, tension, and campy horror. While Chopping Mall gave us a killer robot spree in a mall, Critters offers a much-needed dose of alien terror that’s perfect for those who love their 80s horror with a side of humor.

In terms of appeal, both films tap into the same love for absurd, high-energy horror with memorable creatures. If you’re a fan of Chopping Mall’s blend of fun, gore, and unintentional comedy, Critters will hit all the right notes. From its wild alien antics to its small-town setting and lovable characters, Critters is another 80s gem that offers a nostalgic trip into the chaotic and humorous world of vintage horror. So, if you’re looking to relive the golden age of cult horror, Critters is a perfect follow-up to your Chopping Mall binge.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: Dive Deeper into 80s and 90s Cult Horror

Brain Dead (1990)

If you’re a fan of Chopping Mall’s mix of campy horror and outlandish thrills, then Brain Dead is a must-see. Directed by Adam Simon, this 1990 psychological horror film delivers a much darker and more bizarre take on the genre while still embracing the era’s signature blend of quirky characters, unsettling tension, and offbeat humor. It’s a film that balances surreal, almost dreamlike sequences with moments of pure horror, making it a compelling watch for fans of 80s and 90s cult horror.

The story follows the descent of a man, Dr. Bill Firpo, who becomes tangled in a nightmarish conspiracy involving brain-altering technology. Firpo, played by Bill Paxton, is drawn into a web of intrigue when his brother is the victim of an experimental procedure designed to unlock the mind’s hidden potential. As the effects of the procedure spiral out of control, Firpo finds himself battling not just external forces but his own unraveling sanity. The film mixes psychological horror with a creeping sense of paranoia as the lines between reality and illusion blur.

Much like Chopping Mall, Brain Dead plays with themes of technology gone awry and the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation. However, while Chopping Mall takes a more slapstick, horror-comedy approach with its killer robots, Brain Dead is more unsettling and cerebral, with a palpable sense of dread that lingers throughout. The film’s unsettling atmosphere is heightened by a series of increasingly disturbing visual effects and nightmarish scenarios that feel more like a fever dream than a linear narrative.

The characters in Brain Dead are what really set it apart. Unlike the typical teen slasher victims of Chopping Mall, Bill Paxton’s Dr. Firpo is a more complex figure—a man grappling with the ramifications of his own decisions and the horrifying consequences of modern science. His descent into madness is both tragic and compelling, giving the film an emotional weight that elevates it above standard genre fare. The film’s intense psychological focus, combined with moments of grotesque body horror, makes Brain Dead a film that leaves an impression long after the credits roll.

Despite its eerie and often confusing narrative, Brain Dead has become a cult classic in its own right. Its quirky, Lynchian style, combined with the chilling atmosphere and gory effects, has earned it a loyal following. While it may not have the same campy humor of Chopping Mall, it shares the same spirit of audacity and willingness to take risks with its plot, its characters, and its visuals.

For those who enjoy films with layers of mystery, a dark sense of humor, and a dash of grotesque horror, Brain Dead is a film that aligns with Chopping Mall’s unique brand of entertainment. It’s a dive into the weird and unsettling, a reminder of how 80s and 90s horror films used their limited resources to create unforgettable, one-of-a-kind cinematic experiences. Like Chopping Mall, Brain Dead is a film that stands the test of time—an oddly captivating, often disturbing, and unforgettable entry into the world of cult horror.

If you're ready for something that challenges both your expectations and your sense of reality, Brain Dead offers a chilling yet strangely enjoyable ride into the world of mind-bending horror. It’s a perfect next step for fans of offbeat, thought-provoking films that still pack a punch in terms of scares and absurdity.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: A Deeper Dive into 80s Cult Horror Gems

The Stuff (1985)

If you loved the mix of camp and chaos in Chopping Mall, then The Stuff is a perfect addition to your watchlist. Directed by Larry Cohen, this 1985 horror satire takes a similar approach of blending absurdity with horror, offering a social commentary wrapped in a gooey, ridiculous package. While Chopping Mall saw teenagers battling rogue robots in a mall, The Stuff presents a world where a mysterious, addictive substance begins turning people into zombie-like creatures—because nothing says 80s horror like a bizarre plot centered around something as seemingly innocuous as dessert!

In The Stuff, the plot kicks off when a strange, white, marshmallow-like substance is discovered bubbling up from the ground. Marketed as a new, highly addictive dessert, it’s quickly mass-produced and distributed across the country. However, things take a dark turn as the substance begins to have terrifying effects on its consumers, turning them into mindless zombies completely under its control. The film follows a group of unlikely heroes—a former FBI agent, a corporate spy, and an ice cream mogul—who set out to uncover the truth behind The Stuff and stop it from spreading before it’s too late.

Like Chopping Mall, The Stuff is a quintessential 80s horror movie, dripping with camp, dark humor, and over-the-top absurdity. But what really sets it apart is the way it uses horror as a vehicle for sharp social commentary, particularly on consumerism and the overabundance of processed food. It’s a film that both mocks the mindless consumption of trendy products and exploits it for thrills, making it a perfect example of the era’s penchant for blending horror with satire. At its core, The Stuff isn’t just about gooey creatures and zombie-like people—it’s a tongue-in-cheek critique of American excess and the consumer culture that dominated the 1980s.

The film’s horror is enhanced by its creativity and use of practical effects. The substance itself, a flowing, gloppy material, is as unsettling as it is amusing, while the victims' transformations are a perfect mix of grotesque and funny. As the characters try to uncover the origins of The Stuff, they’re plunged into a world of corporate greed, media manipulation, and unspeakable horror—all wrapped up in the most absurd and entertaining way possible.

Much like the quirky characters in Chopping Mall, the protagonists in The Stuff are flawed but memorable. From the sharp-witted, conspiracy-laden hero played by Michael Moriarty to the determined heroine (played by Andrea Marcovicci), they are the perfect foils for the movie’s weirdness. Their resourcefulness and bravery in the face of an insane, over-the-top scenario add a layer of charm that makes the film even more enjoyable. You’ll root for them, even as the film dives deeper into chaos and absurdity.

While The Stuff didn’t make waves at the box office upon its release, it has become a beloved cult classic—much like Chopping Mall. It’s a film that lives on, not because it was a critical success but because of its unapologetic commitment to its bizarre premise, quirky sense of humor, and its social commentary on the evils of mass consumerism. The film’s blend of satire and horror makes it a delightful watch for fans of retro-genre films looking for something a little different yet equally nostalgic.

For fans of Chopping Mall, The Stuff offers another campy, offbeat adventure where the horror is both thrilling and ridiculous. If you appreciate films that have a knack for turning something as mundane as a shopping mall or a sugary snack into a site of utter chaos, this is a film that should be on your radar. With its dark humor, creative monster effects, and sharp social critique, The Stuff is more than just a cult classic—it's an enduring example of 80s horror’s ability to entertain, provoke, and leave you with a strange craving for something sweet (or maybe not!).

Movies Like Chopping Mall: Exploring More 80s Horror Cult Classics

C.H.U.D. (1984)

For fans of Chopping Mall looking for another dose of 80s horror filled with absurdity, social commentary, and plenty of thrills, C.H.U.D. ("Cannibalistic Humanoid Underground Dwellers") delivers all of that and more. This 1984 cult classic takes a more grim approach to the genre but still carries the same quirky, low-budget charm that makes it a standout in the world of 80s horror.

Set in the underbelly of New York City, C.H.U.D. revolves around a series of mysterious disappearances and violent encounters, all linked to an underground group of mutated creatures. The creatures, or "C.H.U.D.s," are humans who have been exposed to toxic waste, causing them to transform into flesh-eating monsters. As the body count rises, a group of people—ranging from a disgruntled photographer to a group of homeless individuals—band together to uncover the truth behind the C.H.U.D.s and stop them before they reach the city above.

Like Chopping Mall, C.H.U.D. thrives on a blend of sci-fi horror and campy thrills. The film is part creature-feature, part social commentary, exploring themes of urban decay, government corruption, and the mistreatment of the poor. The titular C.H.U.D.s are a metaphor for the forgotten and discarded members of society, making it a surprisingly poignant film despite its B-movie trappings. This underlying social message adds depth to the film, giving it a layer of relevance that you might not expect from a creature-horror flick.

Of course, the film’s strengths lie in its sheer absurdity. From its over-the-top gore to the increasingly bizarre situations, C.H.U.D. delivers plenty of shocking moments—many unintentionally hilarious. The creatures themselves are a film highlight, designed with practical effects that are both grotesque and oddly charming. The C.H.U.D.s are a mix of slithering mutants and hunched-over monsters with glowing eyes and teeth that seem to gleam brighter than the film’s budget could ever afford. They may not have the sophisticated design of modern CGI creatures, but their practical effects and practical horror still make for some impressively eerie moments.

The human characters in C.H.U.D. are equally colorful, and while they might not be as carefree as the teens in Chopping Mall, they share a certain level of charm and likability in their fight for survival. The cast includes familiar faces like John Heard and Daniel Stern (both of Home Alone fame), who bring their own blend of quirkiness and grit to their roles. Their efforts to fight the C.H.U.D.s add a certain levity to the film, which makes the absurdity of the plot even more entertaining.

While C.H.U.D. didn’t garner much attention during its initial release, it’s since become a cult favorite. The film's mix of social critique, monster madness, and absurdity has earned it a dedicated following among fans of 80s horror. It stands as an example of the era’s love for blending horror with a touch of dark humor, often making audiences laugh as much as they cringe. Just like Chopping Mall, C.H.U.D. has endured not because it was a major box office success but because of its unapologetic embrace of its ridiculous premise and its ability to deliver thrills with a wink and a nod.

Fans of Chopping Mall who enjoy a blend of monster horror and absurd situations will find C.H.U.D. to be a similarly enjoyable ride. Both films represent the quirky, unpredictable world of 80s horror—where monster-filled chaos, social commentary, and unintentional humor combine into something that feels delightfully timeless. So, if you're in the mood for more campy creature features with a side of social critique, C.H.U.D. is definitely worth adding to your list of must-see 80s horror flicks.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: A Dive Into 80s Horror Gems

Deadly Friend (1986)

For fans of Chopping Mall who crave a mix of teen horror, sci-fi twists, and eerie thrills, Deadly Friend is a hidden gem in the 80s horror scene that shouldn't be missed. Directed by the legendary Wes Craven, who later brought us A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream, Deadly Friend blends teen drama, sci-fi, and horror into a bizarre but captivating narrative. The film’s premise is a bit out there, but it’s exactly the kind of campy, quirky horror you’d expect from this era.

At the heart of Deadly Friend is the story of Paul (played by Matthew Lillard), a brilliant teen scientist who has developed an advanced robotic chip that he implants into the brain of his recently deceased friend, Samantha (Kristy Swanson). When the procedure seemingly brings her back to life, Paul is thrilled to see his creation working—but things soon spiral into chaos as the revived Samantha exhibits violent tendencies. What follows is a mix of high-tech sci-fi horror, intense gore, and some truly over-the-top moments.

Deadly Friend offers a curious balance of teen melodrama, heartfelt moments, and grisly horror. While there are tender scenes between Paul and Samantha as they navigate their strange new relationship, these moments are quickly overshadowed by the film’s darker, more grotesque elements. The film doesn’t shy away from violence—especially when it comes to the shocking sequences where Samantha's newfound aggression leads her to lash out at anyone who crosses her path. With Craven’s knack for creating suspense, the film never feels too light-hearted or too serious—it’s a perfect mix of both in true 80s horror fashion.

The film also delves into themes of life, death, and the ethical implications of playing God with technology—something that resonates with fans of Chopping Mall. Like the teen heroes in Chopping Mall who must outwit and survive deadly robots, Paul and Samantha find themselves in an increasingly dangerous situation with little regard for the consequences of their actions. The result is a chaotic blend of body horror, teen angst, and a critique of science gone awry.

At the center of the chaos is Paul, a typical 80s geek who is both a brilliant inventor and a somewhat clueless teen. While his intentions are noble, his lack of foresight leads to disastrous consequences. Meanwhile, Samantha, the girl who comes back from the dead, is a complex character caught between her former innocent self and the monstrous tendencies that her new robotic brain brings out in her. The film’s strength lies in its characters, as they are deeply flawed but relatable in their ways. Even as the horror unfolds, you can’t help but feel sympathy for both Paul and Samantha as they grapple with their situation.

The supporting cast, which includes characters like the nosy neighbor who becomes one of the film’s earliest victims, adds to the sense of unpredictability. Their exaggerated personalities and reactions help bring the film's chaotic, often absurd tone to life. In some ways, the characters of Deadly Friend are even more endearing than those in Chopping Mall, as their vulnerability and motivations are explored in more depth.

Deadly Friend is often considered one of Craven’s more underrated works, largely overshadowed by his later successes. When it was released, it didn’t get much attention from critics, primarily because of its strange mix of elements that didn’t quite mesh with the expectations of mainstream horror audiences at the time. However, over the years, it has gained a cult following, especially among fans of 80s horror who appreciate its mix of sci-fi, slasher, and supernatural themes. The film's blend of body horror, unintentional humor, and cheesy special effects (think clunky robot hands and explosive heads) have all contributed to its enduring charm.

Like Chopping Mall, Deadly Friend is remembered for its campy appeal, its over-the-top sequences, and its blend of sci-fi and horror. It’s not a film that takes itself too seriously, and that’s part of what makes it so much fun to watch. Whether you’re a fan of Craven’s more famous works or a newcomer to his filmography, Deadly Friend provides a delightful throwback to the era of unpredictable, high-concept 80s horror.

For anyone looking to dive deeper into the world of 80s horror movies like Chopping Mall, Deadly Friend offers a perfect blend of science fiction, horror, and nostalgia. The film’s quirky premise, fun characters, and eerie atmosphere make it a must-see for anyone who enjoys the wacky, wonderful films of this golden age of horror. Whether you're here for the absurdity or the unexpected twists, Deadly Friend delivers a thrilling, campy ride that will satisfy your cravings for weird 80s cinema.

Movies Like Chopping Mall: Sci-Fi Horror Thrills You Can't Miss

Screamers (1995)

For fans of Chopping Mall who are drawn to the combination of sci-fi elements, deadly robots, and survival horror, Screamers is an exciting and eerie pick that explores similar themes in a far more dystopian setting. Directed by Christian Duguay and based on Philip K. Dick's short story "Second Variety," Screamers brings together artificial intelligence, paranoia, and claustrophobic tension, creating a gripping, if somewhat overlooked, sci-fi thriller.

Set in a war-torn future on the planet Sirius 6B, Screamers follows a group of survivors who are caught in a brutal battle between human factions. However, the real threat comes not from the opposing forces but from a new breed of weapon—machines designed to be autonomous killers, known as "Screamers." These robots, which take on the form of human beings to infiltrate and eliminate their targets, are the product of military experimentation gone horribly wrong. As the human survivors try to escape the planet, they must not only contend with hostile forces but also with deadly machines that may be closer than they think.

Much like Chopping Mall, Screamers is driven by a sense of impending danger and the fear of being hunted by an unstoppable force. However, while Chopping Mall takes place in the relatively safe confines of a shopping mall, Screamers is set in a bleak, desolate future where the characters' main threat is a series of increasingly sophisticated killing machines. The film explores themes of trust and paranoia, as the Screamers are able to mimic humans perfectly, making it nearly impossible to tell who is real and who is a machine. This paranoia is heightened by the desolate, isolated environment of the planet, where survival is uncertain at best.

The film's atmosphere is tense and claustrophobic, amplifying the horror element as characters find themselves fighting not just against enemies but also against machines that can be anywhere—and anyone. It’s a film that keeps you guessing, much like Chopping Mall does with its robot foes, but with the added layer of psychological suspense. In both films, the heroes must survive a killer robot onslaught, but Screamers leans more into existential fear, questioning what it means to be human when the very machines designed to protect you can become your greatest enemy.

The protagonist of Screamers, Joe Hendrickson (played by Peter Weller), is a disillusioned leader of the human survivors who gradually uncovers the truth about the Screamers and the planet's dark secrets. Hendricksson's journey is physical survival and mental unraveling as the line between friend and foe becomes increasingly difficult to discern. His evolution as a character, from a hardened soldier to a man confronting the consequences of humanity's arrogance, adds depth to the story.

Supporting characters include soldiers, survivors, and civilians, all contributing to mounting tension. As the film progresses, it becomes clear that nobody can be trusted, adding to the film’s sense of isolation. In many ways, these characters' fates are not unlike those of the teens in Chopping Mall—people caught in an unexpected battle for survival, facing an overwhelming, mechanical enemy with little hope of escape.

Despite its relatively modest box office performance, screamers have found a dedicated following over the years. While it may not have garnered the same mainstream attention as other 90s sci-fi films, its tight storytelling, engaging premise, and thought-provoking themes have earned it a place among the cult classics of the genre. The film’s mix of sci-fi action and psychological horror appeals to fans who enjoy the tension-filled, somewhat cheesy atmosphere of Chopping Mall.

Though Screamers is darker in tone and a bit more sophisticated in its exploration of artificial intelligence, it shares the same DNA as Chopping Mall: a group of characters fighting for survival against machines that have turned against them. Both films feature a strong undercurrent of suspense combined with action-driven storytelling, where the true horror lies in the unexpected and often laughable nature of the enemies they face.

If you loved the wacky, robot-infused chaos of Chopping Mall, Screamers will scratch a similar itch but with a more mature, introspective take on the dangers of artificial intelligence. The film delivers a perfect balance of sci-fi action, body horror, and psychological thrills while maintaining an atmosphere of creeping paranoia. Much like Chopping Mall, Screamers is about the unexpected consequences of technology gone wrong and how survival hinges on outsmarting an enemy without boundaries.

If you’re in the mood for a film that combines futuristic warfare, creepy robots, and human drama, Screamers is an ideal choice. Its blend of tension, existential dread, and occasional over-the-top action moments make it a natural complement to films like Chopping Mall. With its thought-provoking premise and relentless pace, Screamers is a chilling reminder of how, in both horror and sci-fi, technology can turn from savior to villain in an instant.

The films that followed in Chopping Mall’s wake reflect the playful, often absurd spirit of 80s sci-fi horror. With their low-budget effects, quirky characters, and oddball premises, these films continue to thrill fans who appreciate the charm of campy horror. While they may not have been groundbreaking in high production values, their unique blend of horror, humor, and heart continues to capture the viewers' imagination. These timeless films offer an escape into worlds where anything is possible—no matter how absurd. If you’re looking for a fun, nostalgic journey into the world of bizarre