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Spotlight on Creature from the Black Lagoon

Like King Kong, the creature becomes a sympathetic character as it becomes clear that he is genuinely curious about these new visitors. While the nature of human fear hasn’t changed, this movie differs from its Universal monster predecessors. 

As a post-WWII flick, the sensibility of this movie reflects a different America. In the 1950s, suburbia exploded and affordable family cars made travel accessible. This prompted the rise of roadside attractions. “World’s Largest” objects were plopped in random towns. Enterprising businesses created tourist traps. Florida was no different. It attracted curiosity-seekers with the Weeki Wachee Mermaids.

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The crystal clear natural springs, now part of a state park, provided the perfect viewing aquarium for underwater shows. The ‘mermaids’ would pretend to play football or watch tv submerged, while taking occasional breaths from discreet air hoses. These aquatic ballerinas brought tourists in by the thousands. Black Lagoon is no crass horror flick as is evidenced by the extreme efforts in the production. Scenes were filmed underwater on location at natural springs in Florida as well as on the studio backlot. Camera crew were outfitted with breathing hoses, diving helmets, flippers, and special equipment. There were even two different actors portraying the underwater aspects of the characters.

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