I remember seeing this movie as a kid, but I must have been desensitized to violence, because I cannot remember it being so scary. I recently had a chance to see it again and it really had me on the edge of my seat. What really makes the film frightening is that most of it takes place in a dark sewer system below Chicago. Darkness is a horror films best friend and it works well here. If you have not seen it and are wondering if a 1980 film is worth watching or if you just want a good scare give `Alligator' a try. Some of the acting is overdone a bit, but it is still quite entertaining.