"Cabin Fever" is a 2002 horror film directed by Eli Roth, marking his feature film directorial debut. The movie follows a group of college students who rent a remote cabin in the woods for a vacation, only to encounter a flesh-eating virus that spreads rapidly among them.
The story begins with five friends heading to a cabin in the woods for a getaway. However, their fun soon turns to terror when they come into contact with a local man infected with a deadly and highly contagious virus. As the infection spreads among them, paranoia and mistrust escalate, leading to gruesome and violent confrontations.
"Cabin Fever" is praised for its blend of horror and dark humor, as well as its inventive kills and practical effects. The film pays homage to classic horror tropes while also subverting expectations and adding its own twist to the genre.
Eli Roth's direction and screenplay, co-written with Randy Pearlstein, create a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere, heightening the sense of dread and unease as the characters' situation deteriorates. The film's cast, which includes Rider Strong, Jordan Ladd, and James DeBello, delivers solid performances, portraying the escalating fear and desperation of their characters.
Upon its release, "Cabin Fever" received mixed reviews from critics but found success as a cult favorite among horror fans. It spawned several sequels and a 2016 remake, cementing its status as a modern horror classic known for its gruesome kills, dark humor, and memorable characters.