Ruby's Bucket of Blood Movie: A Gory Comedic Masterpiece

Prepare to delve into the macabre world of Roger Corman's cult classic, Ruby's Bucket of Blood, where blood-soaked humor and artistic obsession collide.

A Primer on Ruby's Bucket of Blood

Released in 1959, Ruby's Bucket of Blood is a low-budget black comedy horror film that tells the tale of an aspiring artist named Leonard (played by Barrett Mahon) who accidentally murders his landlord in a fit of passion.

Desperate to dispose of the body, Leonard dismembers it and hides it piece by piece in a bucket of plaster, which he then uses to create macabre sculptures that become a sensation in the local art scene.

The Macabre Genius of Roger Corman

Corman, a legendary figure in the world of B-movies, was known for his ability to create memorable and disturbing films on shoestring budgets. Ruby's Bucket of Blood is a prime example of his unique blend of gore and humor.

The film's grainy black-and-white cinematography, cheesy special effects, and over-the-top performances lend it an endearingly campy feel. Yet, beneath the surface, there lies a darkly satirical commentary on the nature of art and fame.

Leonard: The Tortured Artist

Leonard, the protagonist of Ruby's Bucket of Blood, is a complex and tragic figure. As an artist, he is desperate for recognition, but his lack of talent and the constant rejection from critics drive him to a desperate act.

Once he starts killing people and using their body parts in his sculptures, Leonard becomes increasingly delusional, convinced that he is a true artistic genius. His descent into madness is a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing one's ego to consume them.

The Art of Exploitation

Ruby's Bucket of Blood is also a prime example of the exploitation genre. Released at a time when society was becoming increasingly permissive, low-budget horror films like this one pushed the boundaries of acceptability.

The film's graphic violence and sexual themes were shocking at the time, but they also reflected the changing tastes of audiences who were becoming more receptive to darker and more transgressive content.

Impact and Legacy

Since its release, Ruby's Bucket of Blood has become a cult classic, beloved by fans of horror and comedy alike. The film's influence can be seen in countless other works, including Sam Raimi's Evil Dead and Quentin Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs.

Critical Reception

Upon its initial release, Ruby's Bucket of Blood was met with mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its darkly comic tone and originality, while others dismissed it as low-budget schlock.

Over time, however, the film's reputation has grown, and it is now considered one of Corman's best works. In 2009, the Library of Congress selected the film for preservation in the National Film Registry, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

Audience Response

Audiences have always been drawn to Ruby's Bucket of Blood's unique blend of horror, comedy, and satire. The film's dark humor and over-the-top gore have made it a favorite among fans of both genres.

On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a fresh rating of 79%, with many critics praising its originality and entertainment value.

Cultural Impact

Ruby's Bucket of Blood has had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous references and parodies. Here are some notable examples:

• In the 1980s horror comedy film Night of the Creeps, a character named Lawrence Talbot (played by Tom Atkins) is seen watching Ruby's Bucket of Blood on television.
• The 1992 comedy film Man Bites Dog features a scene in which a group of filmmakers are discussing their plans for a movie called "Blood Bucket."
• In the 2007 video game BioShock, a character named Andrew Ryan is seen collecting body parts to create sculptures, in a clear homage to Leonard's character.

Conclusion

Ruby's Bucket of Blood remains a testament to the power of low-budget filmmaking. Despite its modest means, the film managed to create a unique and memorable experience that has stood the test of time.

Whether you're a fan of horror, comedy, or simply appreciate a good story well told, Ruby's Bucket of Blood is a film that deserves a place on your watchlist.

Table 1: Box Office Performance

Table 2: Critical Reception

Table 3: Cultural Impact

Table 4: Awards and Nominations