A Review of Crocodile (2000)

Crocodile (2000), directed by Tobe Hooper, is a creature feature horror film that follows a group of teenagers on a spring break trip gone terribly wrong. Though it may not be a mainstream blockbuster, the movie has earned a cult following for its suspenseful plot, nostalgic early-2000s vibe, and the unique role of a dog named Princess.

The story begins with eight high school friends who set out on a houseboat trip through the Southern swamplands. The group includes the typical teenage archetypes: the jock, the prankster, the nice guy, the shy girl, and of course, the dog — Princess. The trip starts off as a fun and carefree adventure, filled with music, partying, and the usual teen drama. However, things take a dark turn when Princess wanders off and leads the group to an eerie nest hidden along the shoreline.

Unknowingly, they disturb the eggs of a massive and ancient crocodile named Flat Dog, a creature steeped in local legend and feared by the surrounding community. After the destruction of its nest, the crocodile embarks on a terrifying rampage, hunting down the teenagers one by one. As they try to escape the beast's wrath, the group faces not only the external threat of the crocodile but also internal conflicts, panic, and betrayal.

One of the unique aspects of Crocodile is the role of the dog, Princess. While most creature horror films treat pets as background characters or simply comic relief, Princess plays an important role in the plot’s development. It’s her curiosity that leads to the accidental discovery of the crocodile’s nest, setting the events into motion. At the same time, Princess becomes a symbol of innocence caught in a deadly situation, which adds emotional weight to the otherwise typical horror setup.

The film features classic horror tropes — isolated setting, a deadly predator, and a group of teens making bad decisions — but it also includes moments of tension and suspense that keep viewers engaged. The crocodile, created using a mix of animatronics and early CGI, may not hold up perfectly by today’s standards, but it adds to the nostalgic charm of the movie. The swampland setting is atmospheric and claustrophobic, making it an ideal backdrop for a survival horror story.

Despite its B-movie style and relatively low budget, Crocodile delivers a fast-paced and entertaining ride. It’s not a film meant to be taken too seriously, but rather enjoyed for its thrills, jumpscares, and campy creature horror. For fans of animal-attack films or anyone looking for a fun, late-night scare, Crocodile offers exactly that — along with a surprising amount of heart, thanks to Princess the dog.