This nature-themed movie, reminiscent of "Jaws," came out a few years earlier. The story involves various swamp animals – frogs, snakes, alligators, lizards, scorpions, tarantulas, crabs, and more – attacking an elderly man’s Southern mansion situated deep within the swamp. It turns out these creatures are angry about toxic chemicals used to get rid of them, as well as general pollution. Ray Milland plays the grumpy old man, with a clean-shaven Sam Elliott and a younger Joan Van Ark also in the cast. "Frogs," released in 1972, clearly attempts to create a swampy version of "The Birds." While “The Birds” is a top-notch film, this one falls into the second tier; however, it’s not poorly made and has its interesting aspects. Anyone who enjoys movies about nature turning violent should be able to find something they like. The movie delivers what you've paid for: authentic swamp settings with real animals horrifyingly attacking and killing people, plus a large antebellum mansion and grounds. A strong point is that the story takes itself seriously; there’s no silliness or campiness seen in films such as "Lake Placid" or "Crocodile" (2000). Joan Van Ark also stands out, looking quite attractive at age 28 during filming. Lynn Borden and Judy Pace are also worth noting. On the male side, Elliott is excellent as a restrainedly masculine hero, along with Adam Roarke and David Gilliam, among others. The biggest issue with “Frogs” is the lack of suspense; the overall feel is surprisingly relaxed. But if you’re into creature-feature movies or like any of the actors involved, you'll probably find something to appreciate. It has more originality than many films that came after "Jaws," and there are a few genuinely frightening moments. Just don't anticipate a film as good as “The Birds” or much suspense, and you’ll be fine. Those who might object to the movie title because it implies only frogs are attacking when various swamp creatures are involved can think of it this way: the frogs are like little Napoleons sending their troops into battle. It's a ninety-minute film shot entirely at Eden Gardens State Park in Florida, which is located twenty miles west of Panama City on the panhandle. GRADE: C+

Source on TMDB