Back in the 1980s, a better time, certain things were acceptable. Shoulder pads and perms for example and listening to Motley Crue or Winger. Popular movie themes were time travel (Back to the Future) and robots (Short Circuit). Tapping into the latter theme is this delightful low budget horror movie. Whereas Johnny 5 was a friendly helpful robot the robots in Chopping Mall are murdering psychotic death machines. Sounds good? Well, having watched the movie I confirm it is well worth watching.
The plot of Chopping Mall revolves around the fictional Park Plaza Mall and it's attempts to install the perfect security system. I can only conclude crime was rife within the mall, with Winger albums and lycra hotpants being stolen in huge quantities. Step forward three high tech robots, "The Protectors", linked to a computer system with security doors to keep out unwanted intruders. Well, low and behold the steel security doors end up locking in four young couples but they aren't too worried, they are having a party! Difficult to believe it was a 1980s party as I didn't see any cocaine so you must suspend disbelief. Anyways, lightening strikes the mall and causes a short circuit of the central computer system sending the robots into a bloodthirsty rage. Our four young couples must use every 1980s mall based horror movie trope if they are to survive the night and defeat the robots.
On a technical level the movie is quite competent. The acting varies in quality but is never awful whilst the cinematography is adequate. The special effects are passable considering this is a relatively low budget 1980s horror movie. The plot is of course silly but it is simple yet coherent and the movie is never boring. The kills are well enough executed and are varied enough to keep us guessing. Gore fans will probably be disappointed and should look elsewhere.
6 out of 10
Summary: if you enjoy cheesy 1980s horror movies you will no doubt find something to enjoy, watch it!