“Some experiments should never leave the laboratory.”
Released in 1987, The Kindred arrived during a decade filled with body horror, mutant creatures, and scientific experiments gone horribly wrong. While it never achieved the mainstream popularity of films like The Fly or Re-Animator, it quietly built a reputation among horror fans who appreciated practical effects and unsettling creature design.
On her deathbed, a respected geneticist leaves her son with a terrifying warning: destroy her research before it’s too late. Unsure what she means, he begins digging into his mother’s secret work and uncovers evidence of experiments that blur the line between science and nightmare.
As the mystery unfolds, the film gradually reveals one of the most memorable monsters of the VHS era. Hidden beneath layers of family secrets and forbidden research lies Anthony, a horrifying mutation brought to life through impressive practical effects that still hold up remarkably well today.
What makes The Kindred stand out is its combination of science-fiction horror and family tragedy. Beneath the creature-feature thrills is a story about obsession, ambition, and the consequences of pushing scientific boundaries too far.
Perfect for fans of body horror, creature features, and overlooked VHS gems. Watch The Kindred on Amazon and discover one of the best-kept horror secrets of the 1980s.
The Kindred (1987)
Genetic experiments, mutant nightmares, and one of the most underrated creature features of the VHS era.
Stream Now on Amazon →Vault Fact File
Title: The Kindred
Year: 1987
Director: Stephen Carpenter & Jeffrey Obrow
Runtime: 93 minutes
Rating: R
Tagline: “Some experiments should never leave the laboratory.”
Studio / Distribution: Atlantic Releasing Corporation
Cast: David Allen Brooks, Rod Steiger, Amanda Pays, Kim Hunter, Talia Balsam
Fun Fact: The creature effects were created using an impressive combination of animatronics, puppetry, and practical makeup techniques, helping the film earn a cult following among special-effects fans.
Extra Trivia: Rod Steiger’s appearance gave the low-budget production a surprising boost in credibility. Horror fans often remember the movie for its cast as much as its monster effects.
Legacy: While overlooked during its original release, The Kindred has become a favorite among horror fans seeking hidden gems from the VHS era. Its practical effects and ambitious creature design continue to earn praise decades later.
“The Kindred proves that some of the best VHS monsters were hiding in plain sight.”
⏪ Rewind or ⏩ Fast Forward?
Rewind: Essential for fans of practical creature effects, body horror, and underappreciated ’80s horror. If you missed this one during the VHS era, now is the perfect time to fix that mistake.
Watch It
Some family secrets should stay buried. Stream or buy The Kindred on Amazon and uncover one of horror’s most overlooked creature features.
Watch Now on Amazon →Official The Kindred Trailer
You Might Also Like
Return to the VHS Vault
Explore more ghost stories, creature features, supernatural chillers, slashers, and video-store favorites from the 1980s and early 1990s.
Explore the VHS Vault