Hide and Go Shriek

**_Slasher at a furniture store in downtown L.A._** Shot in late summer 1987, this was also released as “Close Your Eyes and Pray” in the UK. There are similarities to “Chopping Mall” from 1.5 years prior, just minus the killer robots. The first hour is dull because of the one-dimensional milieu and tedious dramatics, but the no-name actors are serviceable and the score by John Ross is notable. The final 25 minutes finally work up some interest and is compelling with an interesting killer reminiscent of a couple of earlier films that I won’t name. Bunky Jones stands out in the female department as Bonnie mainly due to her impressive head of brunette hair, but dark-haired Donna Baltron as Judy is worth a mention. It’s thankfully superior to the mediocre “Evil Laugh,” but lacks the interesting themes of “The Toolbox Murders.” Something needed done with the first hour to captivate the viewer (beyond female nudity, that is). It runs 1h 27m and was shot San Pedro St, Los Angeles (Fine Furniture) with the backyard workout scenes done 25 miles to the north in La Cañada Flintridge. GRADE: C+