Cooties

During a routine lunch break at an isolated elementary school, a mysterious illness sweeps through the halls and transforms a large group of students into a pack of frenzied, animalish kids. The result is chaos that tests each adult's quick thinking and nerve. Clint, Lucy, Wade and a few unlikely allies scramble to keep the younger class safe while the school becomes a battleground of improvised defenses. Teachers improvise makeshift cages, doors are bolted, and routines give way to survival tactics as outward calm clashes with inside fear. The story follows their evolving tactics, uneasy partnerships, and moments of stubborn courage as they try to outlast the outbreak for both kids and adults.

Cooties arrived in 2014 under the direction of Cary Murnion and Jonathan Milott. It comes from an original screenplay by Leigh Whannell, Ian Brennan and Josh C Waller, presenting a genre mix that blends horror and humor with a cheeky edge.

The film grossed approximately 581,011 worldwide, reflecting a limited theatrical release and a cult appeal among horror comedy fans. Its modest earnings align with a title that found its audience mainly through niche distributors and streaming platforms. It also gained appreciation on home media routes and at regional film festivals.

Critics were mixed, with some praising the brisk pace and the cast's chemistry while others found the tonal shifts uneven. The film probes fear and resilience in a school setting, turning a panic scenario into a story about teamwork and the leadership teachers discover under pressure, often earning sympathy for underdogs.

No major awards or nominations are listed for Cooties. The film did not secure significant recognition at major ceremonies, though it has found a niche audience within horror comedy circles and demonstrates how a straightforward premise can host energetic performances and practical effects that stand up to repeat viewings.