Bug (1975) movie poster

Bug

1975 ·1h 39m · ★ 5.2 (98)

An earthquake releases a strain of mutant cockroaches with the ability to start fires, which proceed to cause destructive chaos in a small town. The studies carried out by scientist James Parmiter, however, reveal an intent with much more far-reaching consequences.

Why it matters

A scorchingly tense eco-horror that fuses 1970s creature feature paranoia with a simmering dread of uncontrollable natural forces turned hostile.

  • Early example of post-disaster mutant insect horror, predating and influencing later swarm movies.
  • Practical effects bring the fiery cockroaches’ menace to unsettling life without relying on cheap tricks.
  • Scientist protagonist’s discoveries add a layer of Cold War-era biological anxiety beneath the surface chaos.
  • Perfect for fans of ’70s eco-paranoia and slow-building atmospheric terror that burns with simmering dread.
4 horror films in catalog

Horror DNA

Gore
14
Slow Burn
17
Psychological
0
Supernatural
0
Creature
91
Disturbing
0
Fun Factor
33
Cerebral
0
Survival
50
DisasterMutation

Phobia triggers

Insects

TMDB Keywords

animal attackbased on novel or bookbiologistcockroachearthquakefirehouse fireinsectmutantperson on fire

Pairs Well With