Teeth (2007) – A Bold, Darkly Comic Take on Feminist Horror
Genre: Horror / Comedy / Fantasy
Director: Mitchell Lichtenstein
Starring: Jess Weixler, John Hensley, Josh Pais, Hale Appleman
Teeth is an audacious blend of body horror and pitch-black comedy that tackles themes of female sexuality, empowerment, and trauma with a razor-sharp edge—literally. Written and directed by Mitchell Lichtenstein, the film takes a provocative concept and turns it into a symbolic and satirical coming-of-age tale that’s as unsettling as it is original.
The story centers on Dawn (Jess Weixler), a high school student and advocate for abstinence who begins to experience a terrifying transformation. After a traumatic encounter, she discovers that she has a rare physical condition—vagina dentata—teeth where teeth should never be. As Dawn struggles to understand her body and the power it holds, she is forced to confront the hypocrisy and violence of those around her.
Jess Weixler gives a fearless, nuanced performance as Dawn, balancing vulnerability with an evolving sense of strength and control. Her transformation from confused teen to avenging force of nature serves as a metaphor for reclaiming bodily autonomy and challenging male-dominated norms around sex and power.
Lichtenstein leans into the absurdity of the premise without losing sight of its emotional and thematic core. The film is laced with biting humor, surreal imagery, and sharp commentary on purity culture, consent, and repression. While Teeth is not for the faint of heart, it’s far more than a shocking horror flick—it’s a statement about the way society views female sexuality and the consequences of that fear.
Equal parts disturbing and empowering, Teeth is a cult feminist horror film that uses exaggeration and myth to illuminate real-world issues. It’s uncomfortable by design—but also fearless, funny, and fiercely unique.
Whether you view it as horror, satire, or a feminist parable, Teeth is unforgettable.
