Juan Piquer Simón, born in Spain, emerged as a distinctive voice in cult cinema during the late 1970s and 1980s. He directed the notorious Pieces (1982), a film that has garnered a dedicated following for its blend of slasher elements and dark humor, showcasing his unique approach to horror. Simón also directed and wrote Mystery on Monster Island (1981), further cementing his reputation in the genre. His later work, Slugs (1988), exemplifies his knack for combining the grotesque with a touch of absurdity, making him a notable figure in the realm of exploitation cinema.
Mystery on Monster Island
Jeff Morgan says that he is not yet ready to marry his sweetheart Meg, the daughter of millionaire William T. Calderon, because he desires to find adventure by traveling around the world first. Calderon decides to send Jeff and his tutor, the bumbling Professor Thomas Artelet, on a journey in search of adventure. However, their ship is attacked and sunken by sea creatures and they are washed up on a desert island. Joined by Carefinatu, a native man they rescue from cannibals, and castaway Frenchwoman Dominique Blanchard, they must brave the perils of the island, which include giant monsters, cannibal tribes and ruthless pirates seeking the treasure hidden there.