Fungicide (2002)
Directed by Dave Wascavage · 2002 · Dave Bonavita, Wes Miller, Dave Wascavage, Edward Wascavage, Loretta Wascavage
In 2002, director Dave Wascavage delivers a bizarre, low-budget fusion of comedy, science fiction, and horror with Fungicide — a surreal tale of a crazed scientist forced into a weekend retreat at a remote Bed and Breakfast. What begins as a quiet getaway spirals into chaos as mutant mushrooms, grown from the scientist’s unchecked experiments, erupt from the surrounding woods and begin to overrun the property. The film leans into its absurd premise with a deadpan, campy tone, blending slapstick humor with grotesque body-horror imagery, all rooted in the DIY aesthetic of early 2000s indie genre films. Lead actors Dave Bonavita, Wes Miller, and the Wascavage family — Dave, Edward, Loretta, and Mary — portray both the scientists and the bewildered guests, lending an authentic, almost documentary-like feel to the chaos. With no polished effects or Hollywood pacing, Fungicide thrives on its unapologetic weirdness, inviting viewers who appreciate cult films that embrace their limitations. It’s a love letter to B-movie enthusiasts who find joy in the unpredictable: think The Evil Dead meets The Quiet Earth, but with more fungi and less budget. This isn’t a film for mainstream audiences, but for those who savor the charm of films made by passionate outsiders, unafraid to let the mushrooms take over.
Why it’s worth watching
Fungicide (2002) is a rare gem of indie genre filmmaking, where passion overrides polish. Directed by and starring Dave Wascavage alongside his family and collaborators, the film’s raw, unfiltered energy creates a uniquely personal experience. Its blend of science fiction, horror, and comedy isn’t just a gimmick — it’s a genuine, if eccentric, vision that refuses to conform. With a runtime of just 84 minutes, it moves quickly, sustaining its absurd momentum without overstaying its welcome. Fans of cult classics and low-budget奇观 will find delight in its homemade aesthetic and unironic commitment to its bizarre premise.
Trivia
- Directed by Dave Wascavage in 2002
- Runtime: 84 minutes
- Cast includes Dave Bonavita, Wes Miller, Dave Wascavage, Edward Wascavage, Loretta Wascavage, Mary Wascavage, and David Weldon
- Genres: Comedy, Science Fiction, Horror