"Destroy All Neighbors" follows William Brown, a neurotic and self-absorbed musician intent on completing his progressive rock masterpiece. His creative flow is shattered by his obnoxious neighbor Vlad, whose noise and grotesque behavior push William to the brink. An accidental decapitation leads William into a chaotic spiral of cover-ups and unintended consequences, as his actions awaken a horde of undead victims, turning his quest for artistic glory into a bloody, terrifying nightmare.
At its core, the film explores themes of artistic frustration and the struggle between personal ambition and external chaos. William's battle with Vlad symbolizes the often tumultuous interference of the outside world on the creative process. Additionally, the unintended consequences of his violent act evoke a darkly comedic commentary on how attempts to control one’s environment can spiral out of control. The undead hordes serve as metaphorical manifestations of guilt, responsibility, and the unforeseen aftermath of one's actions.
Upon release, "Destroy All Neighbors" garnered a cult following for its unique blend of horror, comedy, and rock music culture. Its offbeat narrative and stylized gore sequences resonated with fans of genre mash-ups, cementing its status as a cult classic. Pop culture embraced its quirky themes, inspiring discussions around the pressures of creativity and the thin line between art and madness, ensuring the film's enduring impact within niche cinematic circles.