After 10 years of waiting, and having suffered Wes Craven's trashy "My Soul To Take," we, as an audience, have patiently waited for another "Scream" movie. The last film, 2000's "Scream 3," was at times entertaining, but ultimately a letdown. Now, "Scream 4" hits theaters with Wes Craven back in the director's chair and Kevin Williamson at the helm with the script, and...let's just start by saying that the 4th film in the infamous franchise gives you plenty to scream about.
On tour for her biography titled "Out of Darkness," Sidney Prescott returns to her hometown of Woodsboro nearly 15 years after the original Ghostface massacre. Gale Weathers and Dewey Riley, Sid's longtime pals, are married, with Dewey as the Woodsboro sheriff and Gale in writers block. Also welcoming her is Jill Roberts, Sidney's cousin, and her friends at good old Woodsboro High. However, Sidney's stay isn't entirely welcome, and it's made damn clear when murders start up again that are patterning the original "Stab," the movie based on the original Woodsboro murders. And since the disreputable batch of sequels have hopefully come to an end, the Ghostface killer has plans to remake the original movie. New decade, new rules.
"Scream 3" disappointed me and many others because it resorted to the average horror cliches instead of mocking them, which the first 2 did so entertainingly. Thankfully, Kevin Williamson wrote a script that is fresh and true to the original "Scream" while also keeping up to date with the current audience that have been raised on remakes and reimaginings. Apparently, Williamson has a lot to say about the new wave of horror films. I don't mind remakes as long as they don't copy or insult the original film. But Williamson has no problem making fun of them. His script is more snarky, hip, and funny than ever before while still being quite scary. Williamson's unbelievable knowledge of the genre continues to astound me.
Of course, knowing that it's a sequel, "Scream 4" must not hold back on the gore as much as not holding back on the satirical elements. And I'm glad to say that it's easily the bloodiest, most violent sequel, perhaps, in the series. Craven and Williamson know what their audience want to see, and the R-rating is well-deserved.
Now, let's talk about the cast. Neve Campbell, David Arquette, and Courtney Cox are a joy to see again in the roles they originated. Arquette and Cox, especially, have some very good scenes together that, at times, show their true love for each other right before their real-life marriage ended. Gale and Dewey haven't changed a bit. And now that her character is all grown up, Neve Campbell gives us a Sidney that is tougher, smarter, and more frightened than ever before.
The new kids on the chopping block are also very notable. Emma Roberts has certainly matured since her days on Nickelodeon's "Unfabulous," and she gives her best performance yet, guaranteeing that she can make it as a great actress. Hayden Panetierre is also a highlight as Kirby, a cool chick who happens to be a closeted horror movie freak.
Other people that are worth noting are Rory Culkin and Erik Knudsen as hilarious reflections of Jamie Kennedy's Randy from the first film, Alison Brie as Sidney's conniving publicist, Marley Shelton as awkward deputy Judy Hicks, and Anthony Anderson and Adam Brody as a funny pair of cops. Oh, and let's not forget surprise cameos from Anna Paquin and Kristen Bell.
Altogether, the film never wanders too far into parody and doesn't wind up making fun of itself, like "Scary Movie." The script is to die for, the horror movie references are killer(pun intended), the opening is fantastic(be proud, Drew Barrymore), the cast is stellar, the kills are wonderful, and as for the twist...it's rational and surprising. Trust me. You will never see it coming. "Scream 4" instantly makes up for "Scream 3," and after basically every slasher film has gotten the redux, it's a welcome entry in the genre that is sure to have newcomers hurrying onto Netflix and renting the first three. It's the scariest, goriest, funniest, and most suspenseful "Scream" since the original! "What's your favorite scary movie?"
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
I Spit On Your Grave: Revenge Is Sweet
Jennifer Hills is a woman who travels down Mockingbird Trail and rents a cabin for a few months to work on a novel. While the locals are certainly weird, they come off harmless...at first. One night, Jennifer is at home when several freaky hick townies break into the cabin, relentlessy threatening her, torturing her, and soon enough, horribly assaulting her. After she is gang-raped, she is left for dead while the locals clean up the mess. What they don't know is that Jennifer really isn't dead. She soon gathers her strength and returns with a vengeance. She is going to make these men pay, in the roughest, torturous, most brutal ways possible.
Meir Zarchi's 1978 exploitation flick "Day of the Woman"(more well-known as "I Spit On Your Grave") is one of the most notorious horror titles of the century. Critics despise it mostly for its rumored unwatchable rape scene that is said to last for quite a while, making it all the more painful. The movie's criticism is ignored while the more it is talked about, the more people watch it.
It is surprising to say that I haven't seen the original "I Spit On Your Grave," and I've found it more safe that way. And I certainly didn't rush to see the remake, mostly because it was unrated(which is usually the kiss of death for any film). I waited for the DVD. When I finally saw it, I quickly decided that it's certainly not a movie for everyone. Some will find the violent nature of the film to be too much for them while others will find it a powerful and brutal exercise in justified revenge. I am on the positive side.
I know what you're thinking? How can a movie in which a girl is raped for an extensive amount of time be entertaining? Well, the rape scene in "I Spit On Your Grave" is definitely no picnic. It's less subtle and more brutal than the one in the remake of Wes Craven's "The Last House on the Left," but it's not as long as it is reputed to be, unlike the original.
However, as harsh to watch as it is, there is a feeling of hope for Jennifer right from the start. The rape scene only eggs our protagonist and the audience to get back at the villains and deliver some major justice. The movie promises that, and it's a promise kept.
From what I've heard, in the original, Jennifer takes revenge on her violators by actually seducing them, which, next to the assault scenes, probably set off more angry arguments than that of "The Last House on the Left." The revenge scenes in the remake are fun while they are still pretty disturbing and near unwatchable because Jennifer doesn't come back the same person she was before, and as she tortures the men brutally, her sense of humor is macabre and nifty as she spouts out lines like "I thought you were an ass man"(let's not talk about that scene) or "You like to watch, don't you?" as she tortures the film fanatic of the rapists while filming his death with his own camera. Her revenge is a magnificent one.
The movie is held together not as much by director Steven R. Monroe as it is held together by its cast. Jeff Branson, Rodney Eastman, and Daniel Franzese are especially noteable for their performances as Johnny, Andy, and Stanley, as well as Chad Lindberg as the retarded Matthew, who is painfully forced into being the first to rape Jennifer.
Let's talk about our heroine. Jennifer Hills is played by newcomer Sarah Butler. There is a negative side to her performance but also a very positive side. Butler looks a little too young to be playing a professional writer, which does take away a tiny amount of believability. However, she has a lot of guts to play a role like this. She stretches so far out of her comfort zone in order to film the rape scene, which is never easy for any actor or actress to do if they are doing such a scene. Also, she portrays Jennifer's revenge as oddly realistic and it is never cartoonish. Even though her casting was a slight miss-step, Butler pulls through and gives an amazing performance.
I said it before, and I'll say it again. "I Spit On Your Grave" is not for everyone. I'm not saying that rape is a good thing, but the movie lends a feeling of female empowerment and strength to the character of Jennifer Hills, making her revenge all the more sweeter than any we've seen in a while. The torture scenes are just as gut-wrenching for us as the characters, but in a way, every one of us has a side that wants to be scared and repulsed, which is probably one thing that makes horror so popular. Some movies can be fun, others can't. "I Spit On Your Grave" is a weird mixture of both. Call me crazy, but this Day of the Woman was a day well-spent.
Meir Zarchi's 1978 exploitation flick "Day of the Woman"(more well-known as "I Spit On Your Grave") is one of the most notorious horror titles of the century. Critics despise it mostly for its rumored unwatchable rape scene that is said to last for quite a while, making it all the more painful. The movie's criticism is ignored while the more it is talked about, the more people watch it.
It is surprising to say that I haven't seen the original "I Spit On Your Grave," and I've found it more safe that way. And I certainly didn't rush to see the remake, mostly because it was unrated(which is usually the kiss of death for any film). I waited for the DVD. When I finally saw it, I quickly decided that it's certainly not a movie for everyone. Some will find the violent nature of the film to be too much for them while others will find it a powerful and brutal exercise in justified revenge. I am on the positive side.
I know what you're thinking? How can a movie in which a girl is raped for an extensive amount of time be entertaining? Well, the rape scene in "I Spit On Your Grave" is definitely no picnic. It's less subtle and more brutal than the one in the remake of Wes Craven's "The Last House on the Left," but it's not as long as it is reputed to be, unlike the original.
However, as harsh to watch as it is, there is a feeling of hope for Jennifer right from the start. The rape scene only eggs our protagonist and the audience to get back at the villains and deliver some major justice. The movie promises that, and it's a promise kept.
From what I've heard, in the original, Jennifer takes revenge on her violators by actually seducing them, which, next to the assault scenes, probably set off more angry arguments than that of "The Last House on the Left." The revenge scenes in the remake are fun while they are still pretty disturbing and near unwatchable because Jennifer doesn't come back the same person she was before, and as she tortures the men brutally, her sense of humor is macabre and nifty as she spouts out lines like "I thought you were an ass man"(let's not talk about that scene) or "You like to watch, don't you?" as she tortures the film fanatic of the rapists while filming his death with his own camera. Her revenge is a magnificent one.
The movie is held together not as much by director Steven R. Monroe as it is held together by its cast. Jeff Branson, Rodney Eastman, and Daniel Franzese are especially noteable for their performances as Johnny, Andy, and Stanley, as well as Chad Lindberg as the retarded Matthew, who is painfully forced into being the first to rape Jennifer.
Let's talk about our heroine. Jennifer Hills is played by newcomer Sarah Butler. There is a negative side to her performance but also a very positive side. Butler looks a little too young to be playing a professional writer, which does take away a tiny amount of believability. However, she has a lot of guts to play a role like this. She stretches so far out of her comfort zone in order to film the rape scene, which is never easy for any actor or actress to do if they are doing such a scene. Also, she portrays Jennifer's revenge as oddly realistic and it is never cartoonish. Even though her casting was a slight miss-step, Butler pulls through and gives an amazing performance.
I said it before, and I'll say it again. "I Spit On Your Grave" is not for everyone. I'm not saying that rape is a good thing, but the movie lends a feeling of female empowerment and strength to the character of Jennifer Hills, making her revenge all the more sweeter than any we've seen in a while. The torture scenes are just as gut-wrenching for us as the characters, but in a way, every one of us has a side that wants to be scared and repulsed, which is probably one thing that makes horror so popular. Some movies can be fun, others can't. "I Spit On Your Grave" is a weird mixture of both. Call me crazy, but this Day of the Woman was a day well-spent.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Best Horror Sequels!
They usually say that sequels are never as good as the original. But there are certainly some of them that have lived up to their predecessor. These are some of them.
Paranormal Activity 2 (2010)- Even more sleepless nights are guaranteed with this sequel to the smash hit. More cameras, more suspense, more scares. It's the best sequel in ages.
Halloween II (1981)- Of course, it's not the first. But Rick Rosenthal's sequel to John Carpenter's 1978 classic gets the job done. Picking up right where the first film left off, Michael Myers is shot and continues to roam Haddonfield. While Dr. Loomis goes on looking for The Shape, Laurie Strode is taken to the nearby hospital for treatment. The bad news is that Michael has followed her there, and kills off anyone who gets in the way. "Halloween II" is still pretty scary and entertaining to this day, thanks to some nicely executed kills, once again good performances by Jamie Lee Curtis and Donald Pleasence, well-done chase scenes, and an awesome boob shot. Leave your logic at the door, and enjoy.
Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)- After the success of the first "F13," a sequel was inevitable. And "Friday the 13th Part 2" fits the criteria for a good follow-up. After the events of the first, a new camp is set up not too far away from Camp Crystal Lake. You know what that means. A new batch of nubile counselors to pick off. But Mama Voorhees isn't the killer here. Nope. It's her son, Jason! Before the hockey mask, our friendly neighborhood mama's boy sported a potato sack over his head as he killed the teens, which is an effective and creepy visage. Like a good slasher sequel should do, "F13P2" ups the ante: more gore, more sex, and more suspense. It has aged well.
Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)- Once Freddy had completely lost his touch, Wes Craven brought him back to terrifying life in this movie within a movie that says a lot about the horror audience. With everyone playing themselves(Heather Langenkamp gives a DYNAMITE! performance), Freddy is examined as more than just a fictional slasher movie villain. Robert Englund delivers the best performance since Part 3. There's nothing funny about Freddy in this one.
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: The Dream Warriors (1987)- Including such famous stars as Patricia Arquette, Laurence Fischburne, and Priscilla Pointer, "A Nightmare on Elm Street 3" manages to stay scary while also being really funny, thanks to the always stellar performance of Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger. You get good dreams with this one.
Psycho II (1983)- Say that there's a sequel to "Psycho" and people think you're absolutely nuts to watch it. But, no! "Psycho II" is great! Norman Bates returns to his run-down motel and his house on the hill after 22 years of mental confinement. He has tried very much to forget Mother, but with Lila Loomis taunting Norman constantly, and a new friend named Mary staying at the Bates Motel, Mother's coming back and she isn't very happy with her son. Slightly gorier than the original, Part 2is great fun, with a flawless performance by Anthony Perkins and a surprisingly non-cliched story. "Psycho II" is a wonderful sequel. Don't worry, Norman. Mother's proud.
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)- Not exactly the final chapter, but this 4th installment in the "Friday the 13th" franchise has just as much gore, nudity, and atmosphere as Part 2. As always, each movie symbolizes AIDS in the 1980's. You have sex, than forget about your parents. This is Jason's form of punishment.
Hellbound: Hellraiser II (1988)- Before Pinhead and his Cenobite buddies failed at the rest of the sequels and disappeared into oblivion, the first sequel to Clive Barker's sensual, disgusting, and entertaining masterpiece does extraordinarily well, with a story equally as intelligent as the original, more violence, and truly nightmarish imagery. "Hellbound" nails it. Pun intended.
The Bride of Frankenstein (1931)- I'll tell you the truth. I was more of a "Dracula" person than a "Frankenstein" person. Don't get me wrong. "Frankenstein" is a good film. But I just didn't love it as much as "Dracula." Then, "The Bride of Frankenstein" came along, and it is, in every way, better than the original. It's heartbreaking, scary, and very entertaining. Not the best sequel, for me, but certainly one of the best.
Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)- After 10 years, and the laughably bad and non-related "Halloween III," this was a welcome return, thanks to Donald Pleasence, our two appealing female leads(Danielle Harris and Ellie Cornell), a genuine eerieness, and a wonderful embracing of the Halloween holiday.
Scream 2 (1997)- "What's your favorite scary movie?" Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson teamed up again for this sequel that is equally as good as the first. It's smarter, gorier, funnier, and more entertaining. Here's hoping that "Scream 4" will do just as well as "Scream 3."
Paranormal Activity 2 (2010)- Even more sleepless nights are guaranteed with this sequel to the smash hit. More cameras, more suspense, more scares. It's the best sequel in ages.
Halloween II (1981)- Of course, it's not the first. But Rick Rosenthal's sequel to John Carpenter's 1978 classic gets the job done. Picking up right where the first film left off, Michael Myers is shot and continues to roam Haddonfield. While Dr. Loomis goes on looking for The Shape, Laurie Strode is taken to the nearby hospital for treatment. The bad news is that Michael has followed her there, and kills off anyone who gets in the way. "Halloween II" is still pretty scary and entertaining to this day, thanks to some nicely executed kills, once again good performances by Jamie Lee Curtis and Donald Pleasence, well-done chase scenes, and an awesome boob shot. Leave your logic at the door, and enjoy.
Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)- After the success of the first "F13," a sequel was inevitable. And "Friday the 13th Part 2" fits the criteria for a good follow-up. After the events of the first, a new camp is set up not too far away from Camp Crystal Lake. You know what that means. A new batch of nubile counselors to pick off. But Mama Voorhees isn't the killer here. Nope. It's her son, Jason! Before the hockey mask, our friendly neighborhood mama's boy sported a potato sack over his head as he killed the teens, which is an effective and creepy visage. Like a good slasher sequel should do, "F13P2" ups the ante: more gore, more sex, and more suspense. It has aged well.
Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)- Once Freddy had completely lost his touch, Wes Craven brought him back to terrifying life in this movie within a movie that says a lot about the horror audience. With everyone playing themselves(Heather Langenkamp gives a DYNAMITE! performance), Freddy is examined as more than just a fictional slasher movie villain. Robert Englund delivers the best performance since Part 3. There's nothing funny about Freddy in this one.
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: The Dream Warriors (1987)- Including such famous stars as Patricia Arquette, Laurence Fischburne, and Priscilla Pointer, "A Nightmare on Elm Street 3" manages to stay scary while also being really funny, thanks to the always stellar performance of Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger. You get good dreams with this one.
Psycho II (1983)- Say that there's a sequel to "Psycho" and people think you're absolutely nuts to watch it. But, no! "Psycho II" is great! Norman Bates returns to his run-down motel and his house on the hill after 22 years of mental confinement. He has tried very much to forget Mother, but with Lila Loomis taunting Norman constantly, and a new friend named Mary staying at the Bates Motel, Mother's coming back and she isn't very happy with her son. Slightly gorier than the original, Part 2is great fun, with a flawless performance by Anthony Perkins and a surprisingly non-cliched story. "Psycho II" is a wonderful sequel. Don't worry, Norman. Mother's proud.
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)- Not exactly the final chapter, but this 4th installment in the "Friday the 13th" franchise has just as much gore, nudity, and atmosphere as Part 2. As always, each movie symbolizes AIDS in the 1980's. You have sex, than forget about your parents. This is Jason's form of punishment.
Hellbound: Hellraiser II (1988)- Before Pinhead and his Cenobite buddies failed at the rest of the sequels and disappeared into oblivion, the first sequel to Clive Barker's sensual, disgusting, and entertaining masterpiece does extraordinarily well, with a story equally as intelligent as the original, more violence, and truly nightmarish imagery. "Hellbound" nails it. Pun intended.
The Bride of Frankenstein (1931)- I'll tell you the truth. I was more of a "Dracula" person than a "Frankenstein" person. Don't get me wrong. "Frankenstein" is a good film. But I just didn't love it as much as "Dracula." Then, "The Bride of Frankenstein" came along, and it is, in every way, better than the original. It's heartbreaking, scary, and very entertaining. Not the best sequel, for me, but certainly one of the best.
Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)- After 10 years, and the laughably bad and non-related "Halloween III," this was a welcome return, thanks to Donald Pleasence, our two appealing female leads(Danielle Harris and Ellie Cornell), a genuine eerieness, and a wonderful embracing of the Halloween holiday.
Scream 2 (1997)- "What's your favorite scary movie?" Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson teamed up again for this sequel that is equally as good as the first. It's smarter, gorier, funnier, and more entertaining. Here's hoping that "Scream 4" will do just as well as "Scream 3."
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Best Horror of 2010!
Sorry if I'm a little late on this. 2010 was a big year for horror, good and bad. This is my list of the best scary movies of 2010.
Black Swan (2010)- Director Darren Aronosfsky's psychological horror film about a ballerina on the edge of sanity tops #1 this year, thanks to Natalie Portman's Oscar-worthy performance, and some truly disturbing moments of paranoia, sexuality and shock. Some don't see "Black Swan" as a horror movie, but compare it with the likes of "Repulsion" and "Suspiria," and it very well is.
Let Me In (2010)- Young Owen is an outcast that is constantly bullied at school. One day, his life changes when he meets the new girl next door, Abby. She's an odd character, not showing any reaction to the cold weather, not wearing shoes, and her "father" always going out on errands. Owen and Abby form a tender and sweet relationship that ultimately becomes a nightmare when Owen finds out who she really is. An American remake of "Let The Right One In," Matt Reeves finishes 2010 with the be-all-end-all of vampire movies.
Splice (2010)- "Frankenstein" meets "The Fly" in Vincenzo Natali's sci-fi horror film about two geneticists that splice two genes together and get a female creature that is only partially human. Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley work very well together, and the idea that we're not too far away from this type of science helps to make "Splice" a movie that David Cronenberg would be proud of.
Paranormal Activity 2 (2010)- "Paranormal Activity" was a box-office success thanks to a wonderful marketing campaign and lots of scares. The sequel, "Paranormal Activity 2," doesn't demand audiences to see it. However, Tod Williams' film equals the original. It's very creepy, it doesn't look like the cast is acting, and the build-up is fantastic. The house doesn't consist of just one camera, but six, and therefore, you are on the edge of your seat with suspense. Sounds like "PA2" offers up more sleepless nights than its predecessor. The best sequel since "Aliens?" It's possible.
The Crazies (2010)- Breck Eisner's remake of Romero's 1973 film is better than the original. It's super-scary, and the messages on bio-terrorism and fear of disease gets to you more than anything about the film. "The Crazies" is good enough to drive you insane.
Shutter Island (2010)- Directed by Martin Scorsese("Taxi Driver," "Casino," and "Raging Bull"), "Shutter Island" stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo as two federal marshals that visit a creepy asylum where a patient has supposedly escaped. As the marshals delve deeper into the history and the hospital's treatments, their fate does not look pretty. Obviously inspired by David Lynch("Blue Velvet") and Stanley Kubrick("The Shining"), "Shutter Island" is very atmospheric and nightmarish, and it has an A-list cast, including: Ben Kingsley, Emily Mortimer, Max Von Sydow, Michelle Williams, and Jackie Earle Haley. "Shutter Island" will stay with you long after you've watched it.
Piranha 3D (2010)- Once in a while, a horror movie comes along that doesn't take itself seriously, and its only purpose is to entertain. "Piranha 3D" knows what it is, and it is a fun popcorn flick that offers up something for everyone: Lots of gore, gratuitous nudity, cheesy acting from big-name stars, and large carnivorous fish. What more could you ask for?
Frozen (2010)- Basically "Open Water" on a ski-lift, "Frozen" is director Adam Green's("Hatchet") biggest surprise yet. Three kids on vacation at a ski-lodge decide to go for one last ride down the hill. Suddenly, the lodge shuts down, and they are stuck on the lift. How long can they survive? Can they find any way of getting off the lift without breaking a bone or being attacked by ferocious wolves? Unbearable suspense and major "ouch!" moments make "Frozen" a winner!
The Last Exorcism (2010)- Let's just nickname this one "The Linda Blair Witch Project" and say that for a PG-13 horror film, it scares the living daylights out of you.
A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)- One, two, Freddy's coming for you. Three, four, he's better than before. Jackie Earle Haley brings back the fearsome side of Freddy Krueger that was lost in the sequels. And with the idea of micro-naps, staying awake is that much harder for the Elm Street teens, and you never know when somebody is asleep or not. A sorely underrated remake.
The Wolfman (2010)- That's right. "The Wolfman" makes my list of the best horror of 2010. Anthony Hopkins, Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt, and Hugo Weaving shine, and the gory kills are great. This film is not like "Van Helsing"(Thank god!), and it is done so much in the spirit of a good, old-fashioned monster movie. "The Wolfman" made me howl at the moon with glee!
The Human Centipede: First Sequence (2010)- I have no clue why I'm doing this. It's definitely not a pleasant film to watch, and the acting isn't all that, but it's so bizarre, disturbing, and surprisingly original. It won't appeal to everyone, that's for sure. And I most likely will never watch it again. But I suppose fans of midnight movies will find some schlocky entertainment value in "The Human Centipede."
Black Swan (2010)- Director Darren Aronosfsky's psychological horror film about a ballerina on the edge of sanity tops #1 this year, thanks to Natalie Portman's Oscar-worthy performance, and some truly disturbing moments of paranoia, sexuality and shock. Some don't see "Black Swan" as a horror movie, but compare it with the likes of "Repulsion" and "Suspiria," and it very well is.
Let Me In (2010)- Young Owen is an outcast that is constantly bullied at school. One day, his life changes when he meets the new girl next door, Abby. She's an odd character, not showing any reaction to the cold weather, not wearing shoes, and her "father" always going out on errands. Owen and Abby form a tender and sweet relationship that ultimately becomes a nightmare when Owen finds out who she really is. An American remake of "Let The Right One In," Matt Reeves finishes 2010 with the be-all-end-all of vampire movies.
Splice (2010)- "Frankenstein" meets "The Fly" in Vincenzo Natali's sci-fi horror film about two geneticists that splice two genes together and get a female creature that is only partially human. Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley work very well together, and the idea that we're not too far away from this type of science helps to make "Splice" a movie that David Cronenberg would be proud of.
Paranormal Activity 2 (2010)- "Paranormal Activity" was a box-office success thanks to a wonderful marketing campaign and lots of scares. The sequel, "Paranormal Activity 2," doesn't demand audiences to see it. However, Tod Williams' film equals the original. It's very creepy, it doesn't look like the cast is acting, and the build-up is fantastic. The house doesn't consist of just one camera, but six, and therefore, you are on the edge of your seat with suspense. Sounds like "PA2" offers up more sleepless nights than its predecessor. The best sequel since "Aliens?" It's possible.
The Crazies (2010)- Breck Eisner's remake of Romero's 1973 film is better than the original. It's super-scary, and the messages on bio-terrorism and fear of disease gets to you more than anything about the film. "The Crazies" is good enough to drive you insane.
Shutter Island (2010)- Directed by Martin Scorsese("Taxi Driver," "Casino," and "Raging Bull"), "Shutter Island" stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo as two federal marshals that visit a creepy asylum where a patient has supposedly escaped. As the marshals delve deeper into the history and the hospital's treatments, their fate does not look pretty. Obviously inspired by David Lynch("Blue Velvet") and Stanley Kubrick("The Shining"), "Shutter Island" is very atmospheric and nightmarish, and it has an A-list cast, including: Ben Kingsley, Emily Mortimer, Max Von Sydow, Michelle Williams, and Jackie Earle Haley. "Shutter Island" will stay with you long after you've watched it.
Piranha 3D (2010)- Once in a while, a horror movie comes along that doesn't take itself seriously, and its only purpose is to entertain. "Piranha 3D" knows what it is, and it is a fun popcorn flick that offers up something for everyone: Lots of gore, gratuitous nudity, cheesy acting from big-name stars, and large carnivorous fish. What more could you ask for?
Frozen (2010)- Basically "Open Water" on a ski-lift, "Frozen" is director Adam Green's("Hatchet") biggest surprise yet. Three kids on vacation at a ski-lodge decide to go for one last ride down the hill. Suddenly, the lodge shuts down, and they are stuck on the lift. How long can they survive? Can they find any way of getting off the lift without breaking a bone or being attacked by ferocious wolves? Unbearable suspense and major "ouch!" moments make "Frozen" a winner!
The Last Exorcism (2010)- Let's just nickname this one "The Linda Blair Witch Project" and say that for a PG-13 horror film, it scares the living daylights out of you.
A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)- One, two, Freddy's coming for you. Three, four, he's better than before. Jackie Earle Haley brings back the fearsome side of Freddy Krueger that was lost in the sequels. And with the idea of micro-naps, staying awake is that much harder for the Elm Street teens, and you never know when somebody is asleep or not. A sorely underrated remake.
The Wolfman (2010)- That's right. "The Wolfman" makes my list of the best horror of 2010. Anthony Hopkins, Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt, and Hugo Weaving shine, and the gory kills are great. This film is not like "Van Helsing"(Thank god!), and it is done so much in the spirit of a good, old-fashioned monster movie. "The Wolfman" made me howl at the moon with glee!
The Human Centipede: First Sequence (2010)- I have no clue why I'm doing this. It's definitely not a pleasant film to watch, and the acting isn't all that, but it's so bizarre, disturbing, and surprisingly original. It won't appeal to everyone, that's for sure. And I most likely will never watch it again. But I suppose fans of midnight movies will find some schlocky entertainment value in "The Human Centipede."
Sunday, January 30, 2011
The Legend of Hell House
To this day, Robert Wise's "The Haunting" reigns supreme as the definitive haunted house movie. It has paved the way for such memorable classics as "The Innocents," "Burnt Offerings," and "The Others." However, not many people seem to remember a 1973 flick that came out months before "The Exorcist," a film called "The Legend of Hell House."
Dr. Lionel Barrett is a physicist who is hired by an old man named Rudolph Deutsch to find the answer to one question: Is there life after death? This isn't particularly his job, but since he is getting paid 100,000 bucks, he is glad to take it. But he isn't all for the choice of area in which he'll be studying the subject assigned to him: the Belasco House, aka Hell House.
Known to many as the "Mount Everest of haunted houses," Barrett takes the job, and brings with him three people: Ann, his wife, Florence Tanner, a mental medium, and Benjamin Fischer, the one and only survivor of the previous experiments in Hell House. The owner of the house, Emeric Belasco, was a madman, a sadist obsessed with everything shockingly violent, ranging from cannibalism to murderous alcoholism. So, if any house in England is truly haunted, it's quite obvious that this would be it. And once the team is inside the house, the supernatural occurrences start right away. Lionel, Ann, Florence, and Ben will find out that the Belasco mansion is truly a Hell House.
"The Legend of Hell House" was scripted by Richard Matheson, who wrote the novel that inspired the film as well as "I Am Legend," "Duel," and "The Box." I have read "Hell House" and while the movie follows the book very closely, it is not nearly as graphic or disturbing as the novel. That is totally understandable. If Matheson included everything from the novel, the film would have been X-rated.
While the movie doesn't include all of the sexuality and the violence of the book, it manages to be a very effective ghost story. Like "The Haunting," "Hell House" chooses to abandon most special effects and terrify the viewer through the imagination. No ghosts are seen here, but there's plenty of activity. Matheson has weaved a story that lets your imagination go wild, and I personally think it is his best novel.
The thing that is most fascinating about this haunted house is that one way it haunts the occupants is by digging into what gets to them most. Lionel's wife, Ann, is sexually repressed, and when she expects love from her husband, he turns away, and Ann exhibits her activeness in one of the creepiest sleepwalking scenes ever filmed.
When we first enter the Belasco House, we know instantly that we should turn away and never come back. But our mind tells us not to and to go in to find the answers to the supernatural phenomena that occurred there.
The cast is well-chosen. Clive Revill is good as the non-believing Lionel, as well as Gayle Hunnicutt as Ann. But Pamela Franklin(of "The Innocents," and "And Soon the Darkness") and Roddy McDowall("Fright Night," and "Planet of the Apes") give the best performances here as Florence and Benjamin, who firmly believe that the house is haunted.
Direction went to John Hough, who had directed "Escape to Witch Mountain" and several episodes of "The Avengers." Hough knows that what you don't see is scarier than what you do see, and proves himself worthy as a horror film director.
The ending is sort of a letdown, but the rest of the movie remains flawless. It's not as great as "The Haunting," but it is a worthy follow-up that is atmospheric, eerie, and shocking, and pushes the boundaries beyond what we think a haunted house movie really is. Never does it come off as campy, and if "The Legend of Hell House" doesn't give you the creeps, than you don't know what horror is.
Dr. Lionel Barrett is a physicist who is hired by an old man named Rudolph Deutsch to find the answer to one question: Is there life after death? This isn't particularly his job, but since he is getting paid 100,000 bucks, he is glad to take it. But he isn't all for the choice of area in which he'll be studying the subject assigned to him: the Belasco House, aka Hell House.
Known to many as the "Mount Everest of haunted houses," Barrett takes the job, and brings with him three people: Ann, his wife, Florence Tanner, a mental medium, and Benjamin Fischer, the one and only survivor of the previous experiments in Hell House. The owner of the house, Emeric Belasco, was a madman, a sadist obsessed with everything shockingly violent, ranging from cannibalism to murderous alcoholism. So, if any house in England is truly haunted, it's quite obvious that this would be it. And once the team is inside the house, the supernatural occurrences start right away. Lionel, Ann, Florence, and Ben will find out that the Belasco mansion is truly a Hell House.
"The Legend of Hell House" was scripted by Richard Matheson, who wrote the novel that inspired the film as well as "I Am Legend," "Duel," and "The Box." I have read "Hell House" and while the movie follows the book very closely, it is not nearly as graphic or disturbing as the novel. That is totally understandable. If Matheson included everything from the novel, the film would have been X-rated.
While the movie doesn't include all of the sexuality and the violence of the book, it manages to be a very effective ghost story. Like "The Haunting," "Hell House" chooses to abandon most special effects and terrify the viewer through the imagination. No ghosts are seen here, but there's plenty of activity. Matheson has weaved a story that lets your imagination go wild, and I personally think it is his best novel.
The thing that is most fascinating about this haunted house is that one way it haunts the occupants is by digging into what gets to them most. Lionel's wife, Ann, is sexually repressed, and when she expects love from her husband, he turns away, and Ann exhibits her activeness in one of the creepiest sleepwalking scenes ever filmed.
When we first enter the Belasco House, we know instantly that we should turn away and never come back. But our mind tells us not to and to go in to find the answers to the supernatural phenomena that occurred there.
The cast is well-chosen. Clive Revill is good as the non-believing Lionel, as well as Gayle Hunnicutt as Ann. But Pamela Franklin(of "The Innocents," and "And Soon the Darkness") and Roddy McDowall("Fright Night," and "Planet of the Apes") give the best performances here as Florence and Benjamin, who firmly believe that the house is haunted.
Direction went to John Hough, who had directed "Escape to Witch Mountain" and several episodes of "The Avengers." Hough knows that what you don't see is scarier than what you do see, and proves himself worthy as a horror film director.
The ending is sort of a letdown, but the rest of the movie remains flawless. It's not as great as "The Haunting," but it is a worthy follow-up that is atmospheric, eerie, and shocking, and pushes the boundaries beyond what we think a haunted house movie really is. Never does it come off as campy, and if "The Legend of Hell House" doesn't give you the creeps, than you don't know what horror is.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Good, Old-Fashioned, Black And White Horror!
Sometimes, we need to take a break from the more recent horror movies of our time. If you're a real fan of the genre, check out this piece on some of the greatest black and white horror films of all time.
1) Carnival of Souls (1962)- Herk Harvey directed this tale of a woman named Mary Henry, who gets into a car accident with her friends after a failed drag race. She survives the accident, and doesn't remember anything. A while after the accident occurred, Mary leaves her town and heads over to an area where she will take the job of a church organist. Soon, she begins to experience hallucinations and see ghostly apparitions that constantly haunt her. "Carnival of Souls" is certainly a B-movie. The acting is just so bad it's good. However, as B-grade as it is, there is just something about it. The atmosphere is tremendous and inescapable, and there are moments of undeniable creepiness, especially when we see that creepy man with the wide eyes that is haunting Mary Henry. The acting isn't all that, but if you're looking for something that is ambiguous and strange, you've found it here.
2) The Phantom of the Opera (1925)- Lon Chaney shines in this silent film adaptation of Gaston Leroux's novel about a deformed figure that demands love from the opera singer that he is obsessed with. Chaney doesn't need to speak for this movie. It's all about his body language and facial expressions. He can project any emotion instantly, making him a genious performer. And the face revelation scene is still one of the most haunting and shocking moments in horror cinema. It's a classic tale and an equally classic movie.
3) Nosferatu (1922)- Before the suave and lovesick Dracula, there was this movie. Directed by F.W. Murnau, "Nosferatu" is basically "Dracula" under a different name(Murnau was almost sued for not getting the film rights for Stoker's novel from his widowed wife), but through the power of suggestion and atmosphere, it is a triumphant horror film. Realtor Knock hires his best man Hutter to travel to Transylvania to sell a house to the mysterious Count Orlok. Leaving his wife, Ellen, behind, Hutter takes the trip and finds himself caught up in a horrific and vampiric nightmare. Easily one of the ugliest and creepiest vampires on film, Max Schreck's Orlok is a performance that will creep you out even after the film is finished. You don't want this guy knocking on your door.
4) The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1919)- Another German expressionist horror film that has to be seen to be believed.
5) The House on Haunted Hill (1959)- Aided by the performance of Vincent Price and the showmanship of horror master William Castle, "The House on Haunted Hill" is classic B-movie fun about a millionaire who chooses a couple of people to spend the night in a supposedly haunted mansion. Whoever survives gets 100, 000 smackers. It's one of Price's best performances and the movie oozes with love for the genre.
6) Dracula (1931)- Don't need to say much about this Universal must, only that it's the movie that made Bela Lugosi a hit in the horror genre.
7) Frankenstein (1931)- Mary Shelley's novel about the creation of monsters is turned into one of the most iconic horror films ever made, thanks to the casting of Boris Karloff as the monster. "IT'S ALIVE!!!"
8) Cat People (1942)- A black and white horror film that, if you pay close attention, is all about sexual repression. Bosnia native Irena falls in love with everyman Oliver Reed in New York. The bad news is that if she becomes sexually excited, the creature inside of her will take over and attack! The Val Lewton productions were all about suggestion. There are no transformation scenes, but plenty of terror!
9) Night of the Living Dead (1968)- People locked in farmhouse. Hungry, flesh-eating ghouls attack. George Romero's film is simple, but the jaded aficionado will find it most effective due to the controversial social commentary littered throughout the movie.
10) Repulsion (1965)- "Black Swan" is obviously inspired by this Roman Polanski-directed psychological chiller about a sexually repressed woman that stays alone in her apartment for days, and slowly goes over the edge of sanity. It's weird, bizarre, frightening, and definitely one of the biggest "WTF?" films of the 60's.
1) Carnival of Souls (1962)- Herk Harvey directed this tale of a woman named Mary Henry, who gets into a car accident with her friends after a failed drag race. She survives the accident, and doesn't remember anything. A while after the accident occurred, Mary leaves her town and heads over to an area where she will take the job of a church organist. Soon, she begins to experience hallucinations and see ghostly apparitions that constantly haunt her. "Carnival of Souls" is certainly a B-movie. The acting is just so bad it's good. However, as B-grade as it is, there is just something about it. The atmosphere is tremendous and inescapable, and there are moments of undeniable creepiness, especially when we see that creepy man with the wide eyes that is haunting Mary Henry. The acting isn't all that, but if you're looking for something that is ambiguous and strange, you've found it here.
2) The Phantom of the Opera (1925)- Lon Chaney shines in this silent film adaptation of Gaston Leroux's novel about a deformed figure that demands love from the opera singer that he is obsessed with. Chaney doesn't need to speak for this movie. It's all about his body language and facial expressions. He can project any emotion instantly, making him a genious performer. And the face revelation scene is still one of the most haunting and shocking moments in horror cinema. It's a classic tale and an equally classic movie.
3) Nosferatu (1922)- Before the suave and lovesick Dracula, there was this movie. Directed by F.W. Murnau, "Nosferatu" is basically "Dracula" under a different name(Murnau was almost sued for not getting the film rights for Stoker's novel from his widowed wife), but through the power of suggestion and atmosphere, it is a triumphant horror film. Realtor Knock hires his best man Hutter to travel to Transylvania to sell a house to the mysterious Count Orlok. Leaving his wife, Ellen, behind, Hutter takes the trip and finds himself caught up in a horrific and vampiric nightmare. Easily one of the ugliest and creepiest vampires on film, Max Schreck's Orlok is a performance that will creep you out even after the film is finished. You don't want this guy knocking on your door.
4) The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1919)- Another German expressionist horror film that has to be seen to be believed.
5) The House on Haunted Hill (1959)- Aided by the performance of Vincent Price and the showmanship of horror master William Castle, "The House on Haunted Hill" is classic B-movie fun about a millionaire who chooses a couple of people to spend the night in a supposedly haunted mansion. Whoever survives gets 100, 000 smackers. It's one of Price's best performances and the movie oozes with love for the genre.
6) Dracula (1931)- Don't need to say much about this Universal must, only that it's the movie that made Bela Lugosi a hit in the horror genre.
7) Frankenstein (1931)- Mary Shelley's novel about the creation of monsters is turned into one of the most iconic horror films ever made, thanks to the casting of Boris Karloff as the monster. "IT'S ALIVE!!!"
8) Cat People (1942)- A black and white horror film that, if you pay close attention, is all about sexual repression. Bosnia native Irena falls in love with everyman Oliver Reed in New York. The bad news is that if she becomes sexually excited, the creature inside of her will take over and attack! The Val Lewton productions were all about suggestion. There are no transformation scenes, but plenty of terror!
9) Night of the Living Dead (1968)- People locked in farmhouse. Hungry, flesh-eating ghouls attack. George Romero's film is simple, but the jaded aficionado will find it most effective due to the controversial social commentary littered throughout the movie.
10) Repulsion (1965)- "Black Swan" is obviously inspired by this Roman Polanski-directed psychological chiller about a sexually repressed woman that stays alone in her apartment for days, and slowly goes over the edge of sanity. It's weird, bizarre, frightening, and definitely one of the biggest "WTF?" films of the 60's.
Friday, January 7, 2011
The Last Exorcism: A Big, Super-Creepy Surprise!
After seeing "Paranormal Activity," I decided to take a break from the "found footage" horror film. That's right. I decided to skip "The Last Exorcism" when it was in theaters. However, the critical praise poured in and the hype started to build. So, I finally watched the film on DVD. And I gotta say, I was so surprised.
Reverend Cotton Marcus is an evangelist minister. He's done his fair share of exorcisms, but he sees them as a bunch of bull. Cotton gets a letter to come down to another part of Louisiana to perform an exorcism. He accepts, and decides to bring a camera crew with him to film the footage of what is to be his last exorcism. Enter the farm of the Sweetzer family: Religious father Lewis, his weird and rude son Caleb, and his sweet 16 year old daughter, Nell. Nell is the one that is supposedly possessed and could be the one killing the livestock. Cotton sees Nell's actions, and he dismisses them as the behavior of an insane, abused young girl. But what if he's wrong?
We've had plenty of possession flicks, ranging from the profane and disturbing classic "The Exorcist" to the recently well-done court drama/horror film "The Exorcism of Emily Rose." Going into this one, the audience gets a feel that they've seen this before. How wrong they were. "The Last Exorcism" is a possession flick, but it's so much more well-done than you'd expect it to be. And it's scarier too.
After such movies as "The Blair Witch Project," "Quarantine," and "Paranormal Activity," "The Last Exorcism" does follow the "found footage" formula like those before it. Like Oren Peli, director Daniel Stamm has a keen and sensational visual eye, offering up a healthy dose of suspense, terrifying "BOO!" moments, and the gut-wrenchingly violent and frightening behavior of Nell Sweetzer.
Screenwriters Huck Botko and Andrew Gurland have written a script that avoids the classic horror movie clichés and pulls out all the stops. Once the story gets going, there's no stopping it. Nell's actions start off strange and grow increasingly more horrific as the movie goes on. I don't know if Hitchcock was a fan of demonic horror, but he would be proud with the story Botko and Gurland have weaved.
Next to the "found footage" concept, what elevates "The Last Exorcism" above others is its music. Usually, in order to achieve the raw "home camera" feel, there is never any music in a horror film like this. However, Nathan Barr composes some truly creepy music that gets under your skin as equally as the movie does.
A mostly unknown cast of actors give performances to remember, especially Patrick Fabian and Ashley Bell as Cotton and Nell. Sure, Cotton has faith, but he doesn't believe in the devil. The character could have come off as extremely obnoxious. But Fabian gives the role a fantastic third dimension that allows you to care about Cotton. Bell's portrayal of Nell Sweetzer is absolutely unbelievable. Like Jennifer Carpenter in "Emily Rose," playing a possessed teen is not easy. Bell gives the role all of the layers it needs to look real. She is sweet when she has to be, and the same goes for when she's pure evil. Also, Nell's body-cracking movements don't come off as CGI. It looks like Bell is doing all the work, making her performance just as good.
During the movie, I chose not to compare it to "Paranormal Activity," and it works better that way. "The Last Exorcism" and Oren Peli's film equal each other out. This film doesn't offer up a slow build up, and just sends you on a roller coaster ride unlike any other. "The Last Exorcism" is one of the best nail-biters of 2010, and call me crazy, but it comes pretty close to being the "Exorcist" of our generation. It is incredibly scary, and for a PG-13 horror movie, it gets away with a lot of stuff. It will stay with you long after you've left the theater or turned off your DVD player, and it will leave you with questions. Was God anywhere when needed? Was Nell really possessed or just crazy? You'll soon find out. And I don't care what anybody says. The ending is a stunner!
Reverend Cotton Marcus is an evangelist minister. He's done his fair share of exorcisms, but he sees them as a bunch of bull. Cotton gets a letter to come down to another part of Louisiana to perform an exorcism. He accepts, and decides to bring a camera crew with him to film the footage of what is to be his last exorcism. Enter the farm of the Sweetzer family: Religious father Lewis, his weird and rude son Caleb, and his sweet 16 year old daughter, Nell. Nell is the one that is supposedly possessed and could be the one killing the livestock. Cotton sees Nell's actions, and he dismisses them as the behavior of an insane, abused young girl. But what if he's wrong?
We've had plenty of possession flicks, ranging from the profane and disturbing classic "The Exorcist" to the recently well-done court drama/horror film "The Exorcism of Emily Rose." Going into this one, the audience gets a feel that they've seen this before. How wrong they were. "The Last Exorcism" is a possession flick, but it's so much more well-done than you'd expect it to be. And it's scarier too.
After such movies as "The Blair Witch Project," "Quarantine," and "Paranormal Activity," "The Last Exorcism" does follow the "found footage" formula like those before it. Like Oren Peli, director Daniel Stamm has a keen and sensational visual eye, offering up a healthy dose of suspense, terrifying "BOO!" moments, and the gut-wrenchingly violent and frightening behavior of Nell Sweetzer.
Screenwriters Huck Botko and Andrew Gurland have written a script that avoids the classic horror movie clichés and pulls out all the stops. Once the story gets going, there's no stopping it. Nell's actions start off strange and grow increasingly more horrific as the movie goes on. I don't know if Hitchcock was a fan of demonic horror, but he would be proud with the story Botko and Gurland have weaved.
Next to the "found footage" concept, what elevates "The Last Exorcism" above others is its music. Usually, in order to achieve the raw "home camera" feel, there is never any music in a horror film like this. However, Nathan Barr composes some truly creepy music that gets under your skin as equally as the movie does.
A mostly unknown cast of actors give performances to remember, especially Patrick Fabian and Ashley Bell as Cotton and Nell. Sure, Cotton has faith, but he doesn't believe in the devil. The character could have come off as extremely obnoxious. But Fabian gives the role a fantastic third dimension that allows you to care about Cotton. Bell's portrayal of Nell Sweetzer is absolutely unbelievable. Like Jennifer Carpenter in "Emily Rose," playing a possessed teen is not easy. Bell gives the role all of the layers it needs to look real. She is sweet when she has to be, and the same goes for when she's pure evil. Also, Nell's body-cracking movements don't come off as CGI. It looks like Bell is doing all the work, making her performance just as good.
During the movie, I chose not to compare it to "Paranormal Activity," and it works better that way. "The Last Exorcism" and Oren Peli's film equal each other out. This film doesn't offer up a slow build up, and just sends you on a roller coaster ride unlike any other. "The Last Exorcism" is one of the best nail-biters of 2010, and call me crazy, but it comes pretty close to being the "Exorcist" of our generation. It is incredibly scary, and for a PG-13 horror movie, it gets away with a lot of stuff. It will stay with you long after you've left the theater or turned off your DVD player, and it will leave you with questions. Was God anywhere when needed? Was Nell really possessed or just crazy? You'll soon find out. And I don't care what anybody says. The ending is a stunner!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Black Swan: A Beautiful and Frightening Bird
Personally, I wasn't a huge fan of Darren Aronofsky's previous film, "The Wrestler." So, I was at first hesitant to see Aronofsky's latest film, "Black Swan." But as soon as the praise started tumbling in, I decided that I HAD to see it. So far, I'd call "Black Swan" the best movie of the year.
The film is about Nina Sayers, a young ballerina living with her mother Erica, a former ballerina herself. Nina strives to be the best in her New York ballet company. Her director, Thomas Leroy, announces his production of Swan Lake(a classic ballet), and since legendary Beth McIntyre is retiring, Nina is given the role of the Swan Queen(aka The White Swan). However, she must also portray the Swan Queen's evil twin, The Black Swan. As of now, Thomas knows that the Swan Queen will be no problem for Nina, but she struggles immensely with the Black Swan. In comes competition by the name of Lily, a woman who is strong, carefree, and very sexually expressive. As Nina strives for perfection, she experiences pain, sexuality, paranoia, and obsession that slowly drives her to the edge.
Now, here is a story that could have been riddled with clichés. But no. The script, written by Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John McLoughlin, is extremely well-written and filled with surprises. At times, we aren't sure if what we see through Nina's eyes is true. Of course, her slow loss of sanity is visible. But is Lily really out to get Nina? Is Thomas really exploiting his dancers sexually?
"Black Swan" is definitely a horror film, and that may be hard for other people to view it as such. Nina's descent is nightmarish and truly horrific. When I watched the film, I recalled the styles of early Roman Polanski(i.e. "Repulsion" and "Rosemary's Baby"), David Cronenberg(i.e. "Shivers" and "The Fly"), and even Dario Argento("Suspiria"). Nina's paranoia is like that of Catherine Deneuve, and her bodily horror certainly brings to mind that of the early Cronenberg films. Several horror fans will think of "Suspiria" right away when they watch "Black Swan," knowing that Argento's film is also about ballet. But Aronofsky's film is also beautiful and lavish, like Argento's style.
The character of Nina fascinates me. In our eyes, she is a frightened little girl in a woman's body. She is afraid to express any sexuality, mostly because of her controlling mother. She wants to be perfect, and reach higher than those of her cutthroat partners. Perfection and pressure leads to her madness, and it is heartbreaking as well as shocking.
Of course, the script and the direction are key to the film's effect, but it is the cast that, to me, makes the movie. Natalie Portman's performance as Nina is absolutely stunning. Portman has done many roles that never allow her to grow as an actress. "Black Swan" shows that she can do anything, and she has grown into her own. Thomas is played by Vincent Cassel, and he gives a very memorable performance. Barbara Hershey is also outstanding as Erica. It is told to us that Erica gave up ballet to have Nina. Nina has grown a bit, and Erica is afraid to see that. So when she sees her daughter struggle for perfection, she represses her a lot of the time. Hershey captures that to a T. You will also see a nice performance from Winona Ryder as Beth. For the time she has on screen, Ryder is quite good. But the big surprise here is Mila Kunis as Lily. Known more for crude and light-hearted fare(TV's "That 70's Show" and "Family Guy," and the hit film "Forgetting Sarah Marshall), you would never expect Kunis in a role like this. She is not the voice of little Meg Griffin anymore. She is an actress, and her performance here equals that of Portman.
Director Aronofsky has given us what could be his most ambitious and beautiful film yet. He has worked with a flawless script to form a truly amazing film. "Black Swan," in itself, is an intense drama about the pressure and struggles of the ballet art. However, it is definitely, and maybe not to some people, a psychological horror film, and a great one at that. If anybody deserves the Best Actress Oscar this year more than anyone, it's Natalie Portman. Hell, this could even be up for Best Picture. "I just want to be perfect," says Nina. Poor Nina's pressure makes her suffer, but the movie sure doesn't. "Black Swan" IS perfect.
The film is about Nina Sayers, a young ballerina living with her mother Erica, a former ballerina herself. Nina strives to be the best in her New York ballet company. Her director, Thomas Leroy, announces his production of Swan Lake(a classic ballet), and since legendary Beth McIntyre is retiring, Nina is given the role of the Swan Queen(aka The White Swan). However, she must also portray the Swan Queen's evil twin, The Black Swan. As of now, Thomas knows that the Swan Queen will be no problem for Nina, but she struggles immensely with the Black Swan. In comes competition by the name of Lily, a woman who is strong, carefree, and very sexually expressive. As Nina strives for perfection, she experiences pain, sexuality, paranoia, and obsession that slowly drives her to the edge.
Now, here is a story that could have been riddled with clichés. But no. The script, written by Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, and John McLoughlin, is extremely well-written and filled with surprises. At times, we aren't sure if what we see through Nina's eyes is true. Of course, her slow loss of sanity is visible. But is Lily really out to get Nina? Is Thomas really exploiting his dancers sexually?
"Black Swan" is definitely a horror film, and that may be hard for other people to view it as such. Nina's descent is nightmarish and truly horrific. When I watched the film, I recalled the styles of early Roman Polanski(i.e. "Repulsion" and "Rosemary's Baby"), David Cronenberg(i.e. "Shivers" and "The Fly"), and even Dario Argento("Suspiria"). Nina's paranoia is like that of Catherine Deneuve, and her bodily horror certainly brings to mind that of the early Cronenberg films. Several horror fans will think of "Suspiria" right away when they watch "Black Swan," knowing that Argento's film is also about ballet. But Aronofsky's film is also beautiful and lavish, like Argento's style.
The character of Nina fascinates me. In our eyes, she is a frightened little girl in a woman's body. She is afraid to express any sexuality, mostly because of her controlling mother. She wants to be perfect, and reach higher than those of her cutthroat partners. Perfection and pressure leads to her madness, and it is heartbreaking as well as shocking.
Of course, the script and the direction are key to the film's effect, but it is the cast that, to me, makes the movie. Natalie Portman's performance as Nina is absolutely stunning. Portman has done many roles that never allow her to grow as an actress. "Black Swan" shows that she can do anything, and she has grown into her own. Thomas is played by Vincent Cassel, and he gives a very memorable performance. Barbara Hershey is also outstanding as Erica. It is told to us that Erica gave up ballet to have Nina. Nina has grown a bit, and Erica is afraid to see that. So when she sees her daughter struggle for perfection, she represses her a lot of the time. Hershey captures that to a T. You will also see a nice performance from Winona Ryder as Beth. For the time she has on screen, Ryder is quite good. But the big surprise here is Mila Kunis as Lily. Known more for crude and light-hearted fare(TV's "That 70's Show" and "Family Guy," and the hit film "Forgetting Sarah Marshall), you would never expect Kunis in a role like this. She is not the voice of little Meg Griffin anymore. She is an actress, and her performance here equals that of Portman.
Director Aronofsky has given us what could be his most ambitious and beautiful film yet. He has worked with a flawless script to form a truly amazing film. "Black Swan," in itself, is an intense drama about the pressure and struggles of the ballet art. However, it is definitely, and maybe not to some people, a psychological horror film, and a great one at that. If anybody deserves the Best Actress Oscar this year more than anyone, it's Natalie Portman. Hell, this could even be up for Best Picture. "I just want to be perfect," says Nina. Poor Nina's pressure makes her suffer, but the movie sure doesn't. "Black Swan" IS perfect.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Paranormal Activity 2: A Miracle Sequel
For those who loved "Paranormal Activity," get ready. We now get the 2010 sequel, "Paranormal Activity 2," and the good news is that it brings the same shivers of the first film to full circle. The bad news...well, there's no bad news at all.
"PA2" follows Katie's sister, Kristy, and her family: Daniel, her husband, Ally, her stepdaughter, and Hunter, Kristy's one year-old baby. After they come home one day to find their house has been trashed and they suspect a burglary, Daniel sets up six security cameras around the house to record everything that goes on at night. It turns out that this was no burglary.
Oren Peli's "Paranormal Activity," the indie fright fest that was demanded in theaters across the nation, is one of my favorite horror films of 2009. I've only watched it twice: the first time in a theater, the second time at home. Ever since, I have been afraid to watch it a third time. It is a film that has the same horrifying impact each time you watch it.
Just months after the first film's success, rumors of a sequel started spreading. That was cause for the skeptics to flock. We know how sequels like "Blair Witch 2" can go. "Blair Witch 2" was big on budget, low on scares, and high on stupidity. "Paranormal Activity 2" could have been a big-budget bomb that completely ruined the greatness of the first film. But, no. Believe it or not, "Paranormal Activity 2" accomplishes everything the first film did. In a way, it's better than the original.
Most "PA" fans will remember the classic scenes of Katie and Micah's bedroom, and being on the edge of the seat with suspense, just waiting for something to strike. The sequel doesn't limit itself to just one room, but six areas of the house: the pool, the kitchen, the living room, outside the front door, the stairs, and baby Hunter's bedroom. The ability to have more cameras in the sequel heightens the tension much more. Once again, you are just waiting, looking at the different cameras, hoping that you will see something.
"Paranormal Activity 2" is almost exactly like the first film due to familiarity. But familiarity is part of the fun of the sequel. Just ask Dread Central.com: "Knowing what this family is up against makes things so much scarier." You WILL see slamming doors and creeping shadows, and hear rumblings and footsteps in the film's nighttime setting. But, wait. The sequel actually has more shocks than the first movie. What you see in "PA2" will scare you, indubitably.
I won't give anything away, but the sequel offers a great backstory and a wonderful freshness. You see, "Paranormal Activity 2" is more of a prequel, bringing events back over a week before the original film's incidents. You get to know Katie's family more and you're given time to care.
And like the first one, the acting in the sequel doesn't feel like acting...not at all. We get the feeling that we are looking at a real family suffer. And Katie Featherston returns in a great and effective supporting role.
Oren Peli takes the role of producer this time around, and in the directing chair is Tod Williams, who is completely uninvolved with the first film. With 3 million dollars, a slightly bigger budget compared to the $11,000 budget Peli had, Williams knows what to do. He avoids special effects and goes for the same formula of the first movie, letting the audience engage themselves in another wonderfully psychological and horrifying genre film. Be proud, Oren Peli, that direction for the sequel was in the right hands.
Now, not everyone loved the first "Paranormal Activity." So it's safe to say that if you didn't like the first film, don't see the second. However, if you're a big fan, like I am, the sequel's a match made in horror heaven. If you couldn't sleep after the first movie, if you had to keep your lights on when you were alone in your room, you ain't seen nothing yet. "Paranormal Activity 2" is the "Aliens" of the decade. Sweet dreams, everybody.
"PA2" follows Katie's sister, Kristy, and her family: Daniel, her husband, Ally, her stepdaughter, and Hunter, Kristy's one year-old baby. After they come home one day to find their house has been trashed and they suspect a burglary, Daniel sets up six security cameras around the house to record everything that goes on at night. It turns out that this was no burglary.
Oren Peli's "Paranormal Activity," the indie fright fest that was demanded in theaters across the nation, is one of my favorite horror films of 2009. I've only watched it twice: the first time in a theater, the second time at home. Ever since, I have been afraid to watch it a third time. It is a film that has the same horrifying impact each time you watch it.
Just months after the first film's success, rumors of a sequel started spreading. That was cause for the skeptics to flock. We know how sequels like "Blair Witch 2" can go. "Blair Witch 2" was big on budget, low on scares, and high on stupidity. "Paranormal Activity 2" could have been a big-budget bomb that completely ruined the greatness of the first film. But, no. Believe it or not, "Paranormal Activity 2" accomplishes everything the first film did. In a way, it's better than the original.
Most "PA" fans will remember the classic scenes of Katie and Micah's bedroom, and being on the edge of the seat with suspense, just waiting for something to strike. The sequel doesn't limit itself to just one room, but six areas of the house: the pool, the kitchen, the living room, outside the front door, the stairs, and baby Hunter's bedroom. The ability to have more cameras in the sequel heightens the tension much more. Once again, you are just waiting, looking at the different cameras, hoping that you will see something.
"Paranormal Activity 2" is almost exactly like the first film due to familiarity. But familiarity is part of the fun of the sequel. Just ask Dread Central.com: "Knowing what this family is up against makes things so much scarier." You WILL see slamming doors and creeping shadows, and hear rumblings and footsteps in the film's nighttime setting. But, wait. The sequel actually has more shocks than the first movie. What you see in "PA2" will scare you, indubitably.
I won't give anything away, but the sequel offers a great backstory and a wonderful freshness. You see, "Paranormal Activity 2" is more of a prequel, bringing events back over a week before the original film's incidents. You get to know Katie's family more and you're given time to care.
And like the first one, the acting in the sequel doesn't feel like acting...not at all. We get the feeling that we are looking at a real family suffer. And Katie Featherston returns in a great and effective supporting role.
Oren Peli takes the role of producer this time around, and in the directing chair is Tod Williams, who is completely uninvolved with the first film. With 3 million dollars, a slightly bigger budget compared to the $11,000 budget Peli had, Williams knows what to do. He avoids special effects and goes for the same formula of the first movie, letting the audience engage themselves in another wonderfully psychological and horrifying genre film. Be proud, Oren Peli, that direction for the sequel was in the right hands.
Now, not everyone loved the first "Paranormal Activity." So it's safe to say that if you didn't like the first film, don't see the second. However, if you're a big fan, like I am, the sequel's a match made in horror heaven. If you couldn't sleep after the first movie, if you had to keep your lights on when you were alone in your room, you ain't seen nothing yet. "Paranormal Activity 2" is the "Aliens" of the decade. Sweet dreams, everybody.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Eleven Best Ghost Stories
1) The Haunting (1963)- Four people head over to the infamous Hill House to record a little paranormal activity, and they get a hell of a lot more than they bargained for. Robert Wise crafts the perfect tale of supernatural horror that is psychologically horrifying. Not a single ghost in sight. With "The Haunting," it's all about sound effect. That banging on the door and the cackling still gives me the creeps. Perfectly cast, well-written, and flawlessly directed, "The Haunting" is THE definitive ghost story.
2) Poltergeist (1982)- From the director of "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" and a story by Steven Spielberg, "Poltergeist" brings us to the suburban town of Cuesta Verde, where the Freeling family soon experience traumatizing ghostly events, including the disappearance of their 5 year-old daughter, Carol-Anne. From then on, all hell breaks loose. A perfect blend of subtle horror and tremendous "BOO!" scares, with wonderful effects(Industrial Light and Magic!), a great cast of actors(gotta love Zelda Rubinstein as Tangina), and a truly startling story. "They're heeere."
3) The Others (2001)- Nicole Kidman. Old dark mansion. Ghostly activity. Best words to describe the movie. Alejandro Amenabar's spooky "Haunting-style" tale will satisfy anybody who loves slow-burn horror.
4) The Innocents (1961)- Based on Henry James's "The Turn of the Screw," this ghost story is more sophisticated than you'd believe. Deborah Kerr stars as Miss Giddens, a nanny looking over young Miles and Flora at the Blye estate. When she begins to see apparitions around the mansion, she gets a gut-wrenching feeling that there is something that Miles and Flora are not telling her. You're not really sure what to believe after you watch "The Innocents." Are there really ghosts at Blye? Could it be the paranoia or sexual repression of Miss Giddens? It could be either. Eerie, atmospheric, and very disquieting, "The Innocents" will not let you down. It's truly one of the creepiest horror films of the 1960's.
5) The Fog (1980)- John Carpenter followed up "Halloween" with this nifty little campfire story about the island of Antonio Bay, which is struck by a surrounding fog on its 100th birthday. It is not taken seriously at first. But then it's no joke. A great build-up of suspense and horror backed up by an all-star cast and frightening music from good old Mr. Carpenter.
6) The Entity (1981)- Inspired by the real-life case of Doris Bither and based on the novel by Frank De Felitta, this is one of the more bizarre and very shocking ghost stories to appear over the years. Happily living her life with her three children, all is well with single mother Carla Moran until she is repeatedly beaten and raped by an unseen force over several nights. Psychologists can't understand what is happening, and Carla is slowly dismissed as insane. But you and I both know that an entity is attacking Carla, and the film is her struggle for survival and help. The ghostly rape scenes certainly aren't fun, but "The Entity" is a great and underrated movie that deserves more attention. Barbara Hershey is well-cast as Carla, and so is Ron Silver as Dr. Sneiderman.
7) The Amityville Horror (1979)- Another movie inspired by a true story, this film takes us to Amityville, Long Island, where George and Kathy Lutz and their three children move into the lovely 412 Ocean Avenue home. What begins as a dream come true turns into 28 days of horror. There are a couple of cheesy moments, but it's no doubt that "The Amityville Horror" is a classic haunted house movie due to its publicized story and several genuine creep-out moments.
8) The Sixth Sense (1999)- Dr. Malcolm is a child psychologist whose next patient is young Cole, who says he sees dead people. The bad news is he's right. More of a tragic ghost drama than a horror film, to me, "The Sixth Sense" was M. Night Shyamalan's breakout movie. It made Haley Joel Osment a star, and it gave us insight into why the ghosts in the film were there. Several moody and creepy moments highlight the film, especially young Osment in the red tent.
9) Paranormal Activity (2009)- Katie believes there is something in her and boyfriend Micah's new house. So Micah sets up a camera in their bedroom to film whatever happens when they sleep. The results will terrify you. Delayed for two years and finally demanded by moviegoers everywhere, this is a simple haunted house story that induces major goosebumps. Is "Paranormal Activity" for everyone? No. But for those who are into slow tension will love it. As the movie promises, it will make you afaid to go to sleep with the lights off for a long time.
10) Burnt Offerings (1976)- A super-simple "family rents house for the summer and finds that it's haunted" movie. But what makes it better than the PG-13 dreck you see nowadways are the subtle and quiet scares that build through the movie. The horror builds to a great sense of dread. Put together the star power of Karen Black, Oliver Reed, Bette Davis, Burgess Meredith, and Eileen Heckart, the direction of Dan Curtis(creator of the hit show "Dark Shadows"), and remarkable tension, and you get "Burnt Offerings." P.S. The devilish grin of The Chauffeur brings chills to the spine.
11) The Shining (1980)- Jack Nicholson with an axe. A large hotel. Some extremely frightening ghosts, including those damn twins. If you haven't seen Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece based on Stephen King's novel, watch it or be ashamed that you didn't.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Best Movies To Watch On Halloween Night!
As All Hallow's Eve 2010 approaches, I, HorrorMovieBuff, have decided to make another list. Put on that costume, pop that popcorn, and pig out on that awesome candy. These are the best movies to chill your spine on Halloween.
1) Halloween(1978)- Now, this one is a no-brainer. "Halloween" is a movie I watch constantly, whether it is or isn't October 31st. John Carpenter's classic tale tells the story of the masked murderer Michael Myers returning to Haddonfield to stalk Laurie Strode and her friends. Damn creepy, with a terrifying villain, a perfect music score, and flawless acting from Jamie Lee Curtis, Donald Pleasence, and the ensemble cast. I've said it enough. "Halloween" is THE horror film that will last forever.
2) The Exorcist(1973)- Okay. This is one of the scariest movies of all time, no doubt about it. William Friedkin directs this Satanic frightfest about a 12 year-old girl posessed by the devil and the priest and exorcist that try to save her soul. Not only unbearably eerie and shocking(Love that 360-degree head turn and Linda Blair's disgusting language), but also an intense drama that takes a look into the tragic and tortured life of the priest and the pain that he goes through. If you haven't seen "The Exorcist," then you're not even a horror fan. This is pure horror!
3) Psycho(1960)- Your mother would be ashamed of you(pun intended) if you didn't watch this classic. Alfred Hitchcock orchestrates one of the perfect and essential thrillers that will leave you terrified to take a shower.
4) The Texas Chainsaw Massacre(1974)- It's so much more than just a slasher film. Director Tobe Hooper sparked his career with this truly disturbing horror film about five teens that come face to face with backwoods cannibals, led by chainsaw-wielding, skin-ripping Leatherface. Known for being the bloodiest movie of all time? I don't think so. Tobe Hooper lets your imagination go to work, which leads to the graphic thoughts that the movie will leave you with. Clasutrophobic, horrifying, and not fun at all. But it's definitely a classic!
5) A Nightmare on Elm Street(1984)- Listen to the nursery rhyme, and then tell me that it doesn't creep you out: One, two, Freddy's coming for you. Three, four, better lock your door. Five, six, grab your crucifix. Seven, eight, gonna stay up late. Nine, ten, never sleep again. Wes Craven's 80's horror masterpiece gives you good reason to not go to sleep.
6) The Omen(1976)- Another Satanic tale that is smart and eerie. Ambassador Robert Thorn adopts a baby in Rome after his wife, Katherine, has a miscarriage. The child seems to be doing well until he's 5 years old. After that, the Thorn family's life is all downhill from there. Do us all a favor: When you give birth and name the kid Damien, check his scalp for any signs of the Antichrist. P.S. "The Omen" has the best decapitation ever put on film.
7) Jaws(1975)- It's flawless! Perfect casting, perfect direction, and a horrifying and iconic musical score. Thank God that mechanical shark didn't work.
8) Rosemary's Baby(1968)- Rosemary and Guy Woodhouse buy a new apartment at the Bramford, which leads to all hell breaking loose. Mia Farrow's performance is amazing, showing emotions of paranoia, innocence, and fear. It's a classic film, period. The cradle still rocks.
9) Night of the Living Dead(1968)- Several people lock themselves into a halfway house that is soon to be surrounded by flesh-hungry ghouls. One of the first real zombie movies that, even though it was made on a low budget, still looks extremely well-made. George A. Romero offers up lots of social commentary that just make the movie more controversial and out there. "They're coming to get you, Barbara..."
10) Friday the 13th(1980)- The movie that invented the gory slasher genre that you see so often. Betsy Palmer is to die for as Mrs. Voorhees. Ch, ch, ch. Ah, ah, ah.
11) Child's Play(1988)- Tom Holland directs the story of Karen Barclay and her son Andy, a boy obsessed with Good Guy dolls. He owns the pajamas, the sneakers, all kinds of memorabilia. Andy's birthday is coming up, and Karen surprises her son with his very own Good Guy doll. His name is Chucky, and he swears that he and Andy will be "friends till the end." That is, until a person gets killed, and Andy becomes a suspect. But Karen knows who the real suspect is...Chucky. The doll is alive, and mighty pissed off! I know, I know. It sounds like an ultra-sleazy B-movie. But "Child's Play" is a very dark horror film with great acting, especially from Brad Dourif as the voice of Chucky, and one uber-creepy doll.
12) Scream(1996)- Scripted by Kevin Williamson and directed by master of fright Wes Craven, "Scream" is one of the perfect Halloween party movies. It offers up a healthy dosage of horror, comedy, and drama. A year after Sidney Campbell's mother has died, people begin to get phone calls from a serial killer, whose knowledge of horror movies is pretty diabolical. After one girl gets murdered, it becomes a game of cat and mouse for Sidney, the tabloid with a heart Gale Weathers, dumb but sweet Dewey Riley, and Sidney's friends from school. If you're a horror cinephile, get some friends together and have a ball with this nifty and clever horror classic that is filled to the brim with awesome movie references.
13) The Evil Dead(1981)- The ultimate "cabin in the woods/demon posession/slice and dice" flick. Watch it.
14) The Silence of the Lambs(1991)- FBI newbie Clarice Starling is assigned the case of capturing and killing serial killer Buffalo Bill. But first, she must get the info she needs from an intelligent madman(pun intended), Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter. The Academy Award-winning film is argued about whether or not it is a horror film. For me, it is. And it's a masterpiece. It builds slowly, but once you're 15 minutes in and you meet our good pal Hannibal Lecter, you'll be creeped out instantly. Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins are the perfect creepshow duo. And Ted Levine is so unbearably frightening as Buffalo Bill.
15) The Haunting(1963), Poltergeist(1982), and The Shining(1980)- I've publicized about these movies enough. They're three movies that will keep you up long after the night is over.
1) Halloween(1978)- Now, this one is a no-brainer. "Halloween" is a movie I watch constantly, whether it is or isn't October 31st. John Carpenter's classic tale tells the story of the masked murderer Michael Myers returning to Haddonfield to stalk Laurie Strode and her friends. Damn creepy, with a terrifying villain, a perfect music score, and flawless acting from Jamie Lee Curtis, Donald Pleasence, and the ensemble cast. I've said it enough. "Halloween" is THE horror film that will last forever.
2) The Exorcist(1973)- Okay. This is one of the scariest movies of all time, no doubt about it. William Friedkin directs this Satanic frightfest about a 12 year-old girl posessed by the devil and the priest and exorcist that try to save her soul. Not only unbearably eerie and shocking(Love that 360-degree head turn and Linda Blair's disgusting language), but also an intense drama that takes a look into the tragic and tortured life of the priest and the pain that he goes through. If you haven't seen "The Exorcist," then you're not even a horror fan. This is pure horror!
3) Psycho(1960)- Your mother would be ashamed of you(pun intended) if you didn't watch this classic. Alfred Hitchcock orchestrates one of the perfect and essential thrillers that will leave you terrified to take a shower.
4) The Texas Chainsaw Massacre(1974)- It's so much more than just a slasher film. Director Tobe Hooper sparked his career with this truly disturbing horror film about five teens that come face to face with backwoods cannibals, led by chainsaw-wielding, skin-ripping Leatherface. Known for being the bloodiest movie of all time? I don't think so. Tobe Hooper lets your imagination go to work, which leads to the graphic thoughts that the movie will leave you with. Clasutrophobic, horrifying, and not fun at all. But it's definitely a classic!
5) A Nightmare on Elm Street(1984)- Listen to the nursery rhyme, and then tell me that it doesn't creep you out: One, two, Freddy's coming for you. Three, four, better lock your door. Five, six, grab your crucifix. Seven, eight, gonna stay up late. Nine, ten, never sleep again. Wes Craven's 80's horror masterpiece gives you good reason to not go to sleep.
6) The Omen(1976)- Another Satanic tale that is smart and eerie. Ambassador Robert Thorn adopts a baby in Rome after his wife, Katherine, has a miscarriage. The child seems to be doing well until he's 5 years old. After that, the Thorn family's life is all downhill from there. Do us all a favor: When you give birth and name the kid Damien, check his scalp for any signs of the Antichrist. P.S. "The Omen" has the best decapitation ever put on film.
7) Jaws(1975)- It's flawless! Perfect casting, perfect direction, and a horrifying and iconic musical score. Thank God that mechanical shark didn't work.
8) Rosemary's Baby(1968)- Rosemary and Guy Woodhouse buy a new apartment at the Bramford, which leads to all hell breaking loose. Mia Farrow's performance is amazing, showing emotions of paranoia, innocence, and fear. It's a classic film, period. The cradle still rocks.
9) Night of the Living Dead(1968)- Several people lock themselves into a halfway house that is soon to be surrounded by flesh-hungry ghouls. One of the first real zombie movies that, even though it was made on a low budget, still looks extremely well-made. George A. Romero offers up lots of social commentary that just make the movie more controversial and out there. "They're coming to get you, Barbara..."
10) Friday the 13th(1980)- The movie that invented the gory slasher genre that you see so often. Betsy Palmer is to die for as Mrs. Voorhees. Ch, ch, ch. Ah, ah, ah.
11) Child's Play(1988)- Tom Holland directs the story of Karen Barclay and her son Andy, a boy obsessed with Good Guy dolls. He owns the pajamas, the sneakers, all kinds of memorabilia. Andy's birthday is coming up, and Karen surprises her son with his very own Good Guy doll. His name is Chucky, and he swears that he and Andy will be "friends till the end." That is, until a person gets killed, and Andy becomes a suspect. But Karen knows who the real suspect is...Chucky. The doll is alive, and mighty pissed off! I know, I know. It sounds like an ultra-sleazy B-movie. But "Child's Play" is a very dark horror film with great acting, especially from Brad Dourif as the voice of Chucky, and one uber-creepy doll.
12) Scream(1996)- Scripted by Kevin Williamson and directed by master of fright Wes Craven, "Scream" is one of the perfect Halloween party movies. It offers up a healthy dosage of horror, comedy, and drama. A year after Sidney Campbell's mother has died, people begin to get phone calls from a serial killer, whose knowledge of horror movies is pretty diabolical. After one girl gets murdered, it becomes a game of cat and mouse for Sidney, the tabloid with a heart Gale Weathers, dumb but sweet Dewey Riley, and Sidney's friends from school. If you're a horror cinephile, get some friends together and have a ball with this nifty and clever horror classic that is filled to the brim with awesome movie references.
13) The Evil Dead(1981)- The ultimate "cabin in the woods/demon posession/slice and dice" flick. Watch it.
14) The Silence of the Lambs(1991)- FBI newbie Clarice Starling is assigned the case of capturing and killing serial killer Buffalo Bill. But first, she must get the info she needs from an intelligent madman(pun intended), Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter. The Academy Award-winning film is argued about whether or not it is a horror film. For me, it is. And it's a masterpiece. It builds slowly, but once you're 15 minutes in and you meet our good pal Hannibal Lecter, you'll be creeped out instantly. Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins are the perfect creepshow duo. And Ted Levine is so unbearably frightening as Buffalo Bill.
15) The Haunting(1963), Poltergeist(1982), and The Shining(1980)- I've publicized about these movies enough. They're three movies that will keep you up long after the night is over.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
The Other: Subtle and Suspenseful Psychological Horror
"Holland...where is the baby?"
-Niles Perry, in a whisper
Some of the best horror films were from the 70's. Some of them were disturbing and weird, like "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," while others were so suspenseful you could hardly bear it, like "Halloween." But there's a film from 1972 that is different from those..."The Other."
The story takes place during the Great Depression at Pequot Landing at a country-side house, home of the Perry family. Niles and Holland Perry are two twins that do everything together. But after cousin Russell dies, horrible accidents and problems plague the Perry family. Could Niles or Holland have something to do with it?
Directed by Robert Mulligan, director of "Summer of '42" and "To Kill A Mockingbird," has brought to us one of the creepiest psychological horror films of the 70's. It's probably the most psychological a horror film can get. The horror here is so subtle and quiet, it brings a chill up the spine.
The cast features famed stage actress Uta Hagen as Ada, Niles's grandmother. Hagen gives a radiant performance. Diana Muldaur plays Alexandra Perry, even though she is not in the movie much of the time. You'll even catch a young John Ritter in his first movie role. But the real show-stealers here are the Perry twins themselves, played by Chris and Martin Udvarnoky. They give awesome performances for the one time they ever made a movie. The character of Holland is an unnerving character, and Martin Udvarnoky fills the role with zest and frightening flavor.
"The Other" is based upon a novel by actor-turned writer Thomas Tryon. Tryon has written the script for the film version, and in a way, he improves upon his book. The movie is actually better for once in a long time.
If you're patient and you love slow-burn horror/thrillers of the 70's, take the chance and watch "The Other." You'll be glad you did. The whispering of the Perry twins will leave an imprint on you long after you've watched the movie.
-Niles Perry, in a whisper
Some of the best horror films were from the 70's. Some of them were disturbing and weird, like "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," while others were so suspenseful you could hardly bear it, like "Halloween." But there's a film from 1972 that is different from those..."The Other."
The story takes place during the Great Depression at Pequot Landing at a country-side house, home of the Perry family. Niles and Holland Perry are two twins that do everything together. But after cousin Russell dies, horrible accidents and problems plague the Perry family. Could Niles or Holland have something to do with it?
Directed by Robert Mulligan, director of "Summer of '42" and "To Kill A Mockingbird," has brought to us one of the creepiest psychological horror films of the 70's. It's probably the most psychological a horror film can get. The horror here is so subtle and quiet, it brings a chill up the spine.
The cast features famed stage actress Uta Hagen as Ada, Niles's grandmother. Hagen gives a radiant performance. Diana Muldaur plays Alexandra Perry, even though she is not in the movie much of the time. You'll even catch a young John Ritter in his first movie role. But the real show-stealers here are the Perry twins themselves, played by Chris and Martin Udvarnoky. They give awesome performances for the one time they ever made a movie. The character of Holland is an unnerving character, and Martin Udvarnoky fills the role with zest and frightening flavor.
"The Other" is based upon a novel by actor-turned writer Thomas Tryon. Tryon has written the script for the film version, and in a way, he improves upon his book. The movie is actually better for once in a long time.
If you're patient and you love slow-burn horror/thrillers of the 70's, take the chance and watch "The Other." You'll be glad you did. The whispering of the Perry twins will leave an imprint on you long after you've watched the movie.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Piranha 3D Is A Gleeful Fish Tale!
We've seen plenty of "Jaws" rip-offs in our heyday, maybe even too many. Joe Dante's 1978 answer to "Jaws," a movie called "Piranha," was a truly delightful cult classic with cheesy acting, hilarious special effects, and copious amounts of nudity. After the success of "My Bloody Valentine 3D," we now get another remake..."Piranha 3D!" Well, maybe I shouldn't call it a remake since it is very different from the original film. But what matters is that this film was a blast!
The plot's really cliched, but wonderfully executed. It is Spring Break in the small town of Lake Victoria, and the horny, drunken teenagers are flocking for the party. When an earthquake occurs, releasing hundreds of thousands of piranha from the unknown depths of the lake, Sheriff Julie Forester and her crew must fight to stop the danger that the teenagers are in.
If you remember the film "Snakes On A Plane," you'll remember that it was great because it didn't try to be something it wasn't. "Piranha 3D" is in the vein of that film. It knows what it's supposed to be, and that's probably why it works so well. It is made like a good, old-fashioned B-movie from the 80's, and is unapologetically gory, hilarious, and it offers the most nudity in a horror film in years.
I said it before. "Piranha 3D" is extremely violent, and it's not sorry for it. When the piranha attack, it's full-on and once the carnage starts, it never stops! It had more blood than "The Evil Dead," and "My Bloody Valentine" combined, and that's a rarity. The one sequence that you'll be anxious to see the most is the Spring Break massacre scene. It goes on for a long time, and the violent nature of it makes you squirm and laugh at the same time. For the gore-hounds who love their horror movies with lots of red stuff, you've hit the jackpot when you go to see this movie.
As many critics have said, there is so much nudity in "Piranha 3D" that it will knock a kid into puberty. I'm surprised that it got away with so many boob shots, especially in 3D. Wait until you see the "underwater ballet" sequence.
The cast is filled with A-list actors who know how to have a good time and not take a horror movie so seriously. Elisabeth Shue is great as Julie Forester. You wonder how in the world an Oscar-nominee like her got into this movie. But Ms. Shue knows how to have fun, and she gives a good performance in this movie. You will also catch Ving Rhames as the deputy, Adam Scott("Step Brothers") as Novak, Christopher Lloyd(a riot!) as Dr. Goodman, Steven R. McQueen as Jake, "Gossip Girl" Jessica Szohr as Kelly, and Jerry O' Connell as Derek Jones, the exploitative porno director who will stop at nothing to get his footage. And here's a surprise, a slut that you care about. British model Kelly Brook plays Danni, one of Derek's Wild, Wild Girls. There's the rule that if you drop your top in a horror movie, you're dead. Sure, Brook's character is a slut, but she is able to make a nice and innocent conversation with Jake in one scene, and she gains your sympathy quickly. Oops. Did I mention that Richard Dreyfuss opens the movie? God, I love his cameo! He literally plays the exact same character he played in Jaws, wearing the same outfit, singing the same song, and, in every sense of the quote, "needing a bigger boat."
For the first time in a while, the 3D is excellent. Now, this is what I expect from 3D. If you're going to make a movie about a school of carnivorous fish, I want the piranha flying in my face, gore in my face, boobs in my face, etc. The movie never shys away from the 3D gimmick, and I love it for that.
"Piranha 3D" is directed by French director Alexandre Aja, known best for directing "High Tension" and the remake of "The Hills Have Eyes." This film is extremely different for a person like him, knowing how disturbing and serious his previous horror films have been. Aja truly impressed me with this movie, giving so much energy and life to it.
Now, "Piranha 3D" is not for everyone. Many will think of it as the stupidest horror film in years. Not true. The movie is smarter than that, and is knowing of what its audience wants to see. If you want a horror film that will be remembered as THE definitive B-movie of the decade, then you've found it here. "Piranha 3D" is the most entertaining horror film of the year so far.
The plot's really cliched, but wonderfully executed. It is Spring Break in the small town of Lake Victoria, and the horny, drunken teenagers are flocking for the party. When an earthquake occurs, releasing hundreds of thousands of piranha from the unknown depths of the lake, Sheriff Julie Forester and her crew must fight to stop the danger that the teenagers are in.
If you remember the film "Snakes On A Plane," you'll remember that it was great because it didn't try to be something it wasn't. "Piranha 3D" is in the vein of that film. It knows what it's supposed to be, and that's probably why it works so well. It is made like a good, old-fashioned B-movie from the 80's, and is unapologetically gory, hilarious, and it offers the most nudity in a horror film in years.
I said it before. "Piranha 3D" is extremely violent, and it's not sorry for it. When the piranha attack, it's full-on and once the carnage starts, it never stops! It had more blood than "The Evil Dead," and "My Bloody Valentine" combined, and that's a rarity. The one sequence that you'll be anxious to see the most is the Spring Break massacre scene. It goes on for a long time, and the violent nature of it makes you squirm and laugh at the same time. For the gore-hounds who love their horror movies with lots of red stuff, you've hit the jackpot when you go to see this movie.
As many critics have said, there is so much nudity in "Piranha 3D" that it will knock a kid into puberty. I'm surprised that it got away with so many boob shots, especially in 3D. Wait until you see the "underwater ballet" sequence.
The cast is filled with A-list actors who know how to have a good time and not take a horror movie so seriously. Elisabeth Shue is great as Julie Forester. You wonder how in the world an Oscar-nominee like her got into this movie. But Ms. Shue knows how to have fun, and she gives a good performance in this movie. You will also catch Ving Rhames as the deputy, Adam Scott("Step Brothers") as Novak, Christopher Lloyd(a riot!) as Dr. Goodman, Steven R. McQueen as Jake, "Gossip Girl" Jessica Szohr as Kelly, and Jerry O' Connell as Derek Jones, the exploitative porno director who will stop at nothing to get his footage. And here's a surprise, a slut that you care about. British model Kelly Brook plays Danni, one of Derek's Wild, Wild Girls. There's the rule that if you drop your top in a horror movie, you're dead. Sure, Brook's character is a slut, but she is able to make a nice and innocent conversation with Jake in one scene, and she gains your sympathy quickly. Oops. Did I mention that Richard Dreyfuss opens the movie? God, I love his cameo! He literally plays the exact same character he played in Jaws, wearing the same outfit, singing the same song, and, in every sense of the quote, "needing a bigger boat."
For the first time in a while, the 3D is excellent. Now, this is what I expect from 3D. If you're going to make a movie about a school of carnivorous fish, I want the piranha flying in my face, gore in my face, boobs in my face, etc. The movie never shys away from the 3D gimmick, and I love it for that.
"Piranha 3D" is directed by French director Alexandre Aja, known best for directing "High Tension" and the remake of "The Hills Have Eyes." This film is extremely different for a person like him, knowing how disturbing and serious his previous horror films have been. Aja truly impressed me with this movie, giving so much energy and life to it.
Now, "Piranha 3D" is not for everyone. Many will think of it as the stupidest horror film in years. Not true. The movie is smarter than that, and is knowing of what its audience wants to see. If you want a horror film that will be remembered as THE definitive B-movie of the decade, then you've found it here. "Piranha 3D" is the most entertaining horror film of the year so far.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Invasion of the Body Snatchers: Is The Remake Better?
1956: the year of the pod people. That year, the film "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" was a huge hit. While goofy at times, it certainly sparked controversy and relation to Communism at the time. Then, there's 1978, 22 years later. And famed filmmaker Philip Kaufman revived the classic story for the modern 70's audience. Does the remake of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" work? Yes. In fact, I think it might work better than the original.
A group of people begin to discover weird changes in their surroundings, starting with Elizabeth Driscoll. Something's up with her boyfriend Geoffrey, and she doesn't know what it is. That's when a flower is introduced to health department investigator Matthew Bennell, Jack Bellicec and his wife Nancy, and famous Dr. David Kibner. It's a pod flower unlike anything that has ever been seen before. Then, everybody begins to change. Couples suspect their family or husband or wife of not being who they really are. Something terrible's going on in this town, and it's happening to everybody. They're here...and you're next!
I expected this remake to be a failure. Fortunately, it isn't. In my opinion, the original "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" is a good film, but it can't escape total silliness. That's not what I look for in a horror film, or at least a sci-fi horror. The remake of "Invasion" was everything the original wasn't. It trades in goofiness for straightforward chills. The sense that the Body Snatchers could be anybody, either your mother or father or best friend, brings extreme effect to the viewer. And there's plenty of scares and unnerving elements throughout the film to keep you attached to your seat.
A-list actors give amazing performances in this film. Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, Veronica Cartwright and Jeff Goldblum play their parts so well, it's as if they're not even acting. They portray their characters as real people in a situation too terrifying to describe. And hooray for Leonard Nimoy, who finally steps out of his "Star Trek" roots. He can't be remembered as Spock for the rest of his life, and he proves that while playing Kibner.
The 1956 version of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" is reccomended. However, the 1978 remake is essential. It's scary, it's atmospheric, and most of all, effective. The sound that comes out of the pod people's mouth will remain embedded in your mind long after you watch the film.
A group of people begin to discover weird changes in their surroundings, starting with Elizabeth Driscoll. Something's up with her boyfriend Geoffrey, and she doesn't know what it is. That's when a flower is introduced to health department investigator Matthew Bennell, Jack Bellicec and his wife Nancy, and famous Dr. David Kibner. It's a pod flower unlike anything that has ever been seen before. Then, everybody begins to change. Couples suspect their family or husband or wife of not being who they really are. Something terrible's going on in this town, and it's happening to everybody. They're here...and you're next!
I expected this remake to be a failure. Fortunately, it isn't. In my opinion, the original "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" is a good film, but it can't escape total silliness. That's not what I look for in a horror film, or at least a sci-fi horror. The remake of "Invasion" was everything the original wasn't. It trades in goofiness for straightforward chills. The sense that the Body Snatchers could be anybody, either your mother or father or best friend, brings extreme effect to the viewer. And there's plenty of scares and unnerving elements throughout the film to keep you attached to your seat.
A-list actors give amazing performances in this film. Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, Veronica Cartwright and Jeff Goldblum play their parts so well, it's as if they're not even acting. They portray their characters as real people in a situation too terrifying to describe. And hooray for Leonard Nimoy, who finally steps out of his "Star Trek" roots. He can't be remembered as Spock for the rest of his life, and he proves that while playing Kibner.
The 1956 version of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" is reccomended. However, the 1978 remake is essential. It's scary, it's atmospheric, and most of all, effective. The sound that comes out of the pod people's mouth will remain embedded in your mind long after you watch the film.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Pet Sematary: Not Your Average Stephen King Movie
I've seen all of the Stephen King movies. Some are amazing, and some aren't. Personally, my favorite time of Stephen King was the 70's-80's era. That was when King films were scary and uncompromising. One of my favorites is 1989's "Pet Sematary," a film that is unlike any Stephen King movie out there.
Louis Creed, his wife Rachel, and their two children, Ellie and baby Gage, move to a house in Maine that brings on the idea of the American dream. But it's not at all what it's supposed to be, according to their friendly neighbor Jud Crandall. Beyond Louis and Rachel's house lies a path to the Pet Sematary, a graveyard filled with dead pets buried by broken-hearted children. After Rachel and the kids go on vacation, Louis faces a problem with the family cat, Church, after he is hit by a truck. Jud leads Louis to a farther path after the Pet Sematary, a path to an Indian burial ground. And before Louis knows it, Church comes back to life. And after the tragic death of Gage, Louis can't bear to live with his son's death anymore, and decides to bury him at the Pet Sematary. Bad idea.
Out of all the Stephen King movies, I think "Pet Sematary" is his darkest tale. It's a gritty, disturbing, violent, and unnerving film that is, at times, painful to watch. Not that it's a bad thing. This is a great horror film, through and through.
What does Jud mean when he says "Sometimes, dead is better?" When he says this, we understand that death is a powerful thing, something that we can all relate to. Months after Gage dies, Louis just refuses to let him go. He needs to realize that you can't bring people back to life. And if you do, you're taking things too far.
One of the scariest elements of the movie is what happens after the cat or the child is buried at the Pet Sematary. We think that Gage is happy when he comes back. But the truth is what comes out of the burial ground isn't Gage. It's something different and evil. As it is mentioned several times in the movie, "the barrier was not meant to be crossed."
The acting in this film is quite good. Dale Midkiff's performance as Louis is subtle and heartbreaking as you know that he can't comfort his daughter and he is slowly losing his mind after traveling to the Indian burial ground. "Star Trek" alumni Denise Crosby does well as Rachel. Gage's death brings on horrible memories from her childhood, mostly about her dying sister Zelda. You feel awful about what is happening to her, and you gain Crosby's sympathy instantly. Fred Gwynne's portrayal of Jud is a little bit goofy, but you gotta love him. I mean, he's Herman Munster. Let's talk about little Miko Hughes as Gage. He's just a baby in this film, and it's almost like he didn't need direction. That's how good he is in this movie. It still creeps me out when I hear him laugh.
George A. Romero was supposed to direct the film, but that job went to Mary Lambert, who I believe was a better decision. Many male viewers believe that women cannot direct horror films. But Lambert proves them wrong with intelligent direction and perfect understanding of the plot.
Will you be creeped out by this movie? Absolutely. Will you be grossed out? It's impossible not to be. But the gore is just the cherry on top for "Pet Sematary." This film is all about disturbing and scaring you. It's such a dark story and one of Stephen King's best. Everything about this movie, from the character of Zelda to Louis's loss of sanity, will scare you. And you will discover that sometimes, dead truly is better.
Louis Creed, his wife Rachel, and their two children, Ellie and baby Gage, move to a house in Maine that brings on the idea of the American dream. But it's not at all what it's supposed to be, according to their friendly neighbor Jud Crandall. Beyond Louis and Rachel's house lies a path to the Pet Sematary, a graveyard filled with dead pets buried by broken-hearted children. After Rachel and the kids go on vacation, Louis faces a problem with the family cat, Church, after he is hit by a truck. Jud leads Louis to a farther path after the Pet Sematary, a path to an Indian burial ground. And before Louis knows it, Church comes back to life. And after the tragic death of Gage, Louis can't bear to live with his son's death anymore, and decides to bury him at the Pet Sematary. Bad idea.
Out of all the Stephen King movies, I think "Pet Sematary" is his darkest tale. It's a gritty, disturbing, violent, and unnerving film that is, at times, painful to watch. Not that it's a bad thing. This is a great horror film, through and through.
What does Jud mean when he says "Sometimes, dead is better?" When he says this, we understand that death is a powerful thing, something that we can all relate to. Months after Gage dies, Louis just refuses to let him go. He needs to realize that you can't bring people back to life. And if you do, you're taking things too far.
One of the scariest elements of the movie is what happens after the cat or the child is buried at the Pet Sematary. We think that Gage is happy when he comes back. But the truth is what comes out of the burial ground isn't Gage. It's something different and evil. As it is mentioned several times in the movie, "the barrier was not meant to be crossed."
The acting in this film is quite good. Dale Midkiff's performance as Louis is subtle and heartbreaking as you know that he can't comfort his daughter and he is slowly losing his mind after traveling to the Indian burial ground. "Star Trek" alumni Denise Crosby does well as Rachel. Gage's death brings on horrible memories from her childhood, mostly about her dying sister Zelda. You feel awful about what is happening to her, and you gain Crosby's sympathy instantly. Fred Gwynne's portrayal of Jud is a little bit goofy, but you gotta love him. I mean, he's Herman Munster. Let's talk about little Miko Hughes as Gage. He's just a baby in this film, and it's almost like he didn't need direction. That's how good he is in this movie. It still creeps me out when I hear him laugh.
George A. Romero was supposed to direct the film, but that job went to Mary Lambert, who I believe was a better decision. Many male viewers believe that women cannot direct horror films. But Lambert proves them wrong with intelligent direction and perfect understanding of the plot.
Will you be creeped out by this movie? Absolutely. Will you be grossed out? It's impossible not to be. But the gore is just the cherry on top for "Pet Sematary." This film is all about disturbing and scaring you. It's such a dark story and one of Stephen King's best. Everything about this movie, from the character of Zelda to Louis's loss of sanity, will scare you. And you will discover that sometimes, dead truly is better.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
The Best Horror Films of the 2000's
1) Ginger Snaps (2000)- Two goth sisters, Brigitte and Ginger, are walking through the woods one night, and Ginger is attacked by some kind of dog. Slowly, Brigitte realizes that Ginger will turn into a werewolf in a couple of days. Using the lycanthrope mythos as a metaphor for female puberty, this is not your average werewolf movie. It's scary, darkly comic, bloody, and Emily Perkins and Katharine Isabelle are perfectly cast as Brigitte and Ginger.
2) The Descent (2005)- A group of daredevil women go spelunking and get stuck inside the cave. Searching for a way out, they realize that they are not alone. This film is what a horror movie should be. You get claustrophobia, fear of the dark, strong independent leads, and some of the most horrifying monsters since "Aliens." Definitely one of the scariest movies I've ever seen.
3) The Others (2001)- In the tradition of "The Haunting," "The Others" is about a woman sheltering her children in a dark mansion due to their allergies caused by sunlight. After the woman hires servants to work around the house, strange things happen. Why does the daughter tell stories of an imaginary boy named Victor? Why are there sudden noises around the mansion? The servants know nothing, and the children are not playing around. Who is threatening the lives of this woman and her children? Directed by Alejandro Amenabar, this good, old-fashioned ghost story will chill you to the bone.
4) The Mist (2007)- Stephen King's tale of an impending fog surrounding a supermarket is creepy and tragic, and it has an amazing cast. Marcia Gay Harden's performance as a twisted religious fanatic should have been Oscar-worthy.
5) Final Destination (2000)- One of the most original horror movies of the decade. After a boy has a premonition of a plane exploding, he and other passengers are thrown off the plane, only to discover that the plane does explode just minutes afterwards. In time, death itself begins to pick off the kids in the order that they were meant to die on the plane. Gory and smart, "Final Destination" is a big surprise.
6) Saw (2004)- A very different slasher movie about a serial killer by the name of Jigsaw. Jigsaw only has one perogative, and that is to play torturous games with his victims and make them realize whether or not their life is worth living. While two people are trapped in a dilapidated bathroom, Jigsaw holds hostage two of the family members of one of the victims. How far will this doctor go to stop Jigsaw and save the life of his wife and daughter? "Saw" reminds you very much of David Fincher's "Seven," only this film makes your skin crawl and stomach churn a lot more than the other. It's not for the faint of heart.
7) 1408 (2007)- Another Stephen King tale in the vein of "The Shining." John Cusack stars as Mike Enslin, an author who has seen it all. He's been to the haunted houses and the hotels. Nothing has ever truly happened. Mike later sets his sights on The Dolphin Hotel, home to the infamous room 1408, where terrible things have occurred. Staying in 1408 is not permitted, but Mike is able to persuade the hotel manager to hand over the key. The truth is there really is something wrong with room 1408, and Mike has a big problem on his hands. It's a little bit of a ghost story, but it's not the ghosts in "1408" that scare the viewer. It's the room's ability to drive Mike Enslin to the brink of madness. An expertly crafted horror film that boasts the wonderful performances of Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson.
8) The House of the Devil (2009)- A girl looking for money is given a babysitting job in the house of Vincent and Vivian Ullman, who are hiding a dark and terrifying secret. Ti West's Satanic tale is not too much about gore. It's more about the unsettling suspense the viewer goes through until the blood-curdling climax. It's eerie and perfect, with A-grade performances by Jocelin Donahue, Tom Noonan, Mary Woronov, and Greta Girwig. "The House of the Devil" is a real horror gem.
9) Dawn of the Dead (2004)- A remake of George Romero's 1978 zombie flick, this one doesn't feature as much social commentary as it does loads of scares and gore, and the zombies have been turned into unstoppable, fast-running forces of nature that you can't escape. Great cast, especially Sarah Polley.
10) Frailty (2001)- Bill Paxton stars in and directs this Gothic horror/thriller about two boys whose father is a serial killer who believes he is doing God's will by eliminating demons from Earth, or in reality, just killing people and involving his children. Very unnerving and brutal, without really showing that much. Paxton's performance is chilling.
11) Drag Me To Hell (2009)- Starring Alison Lohman, Justin Long, Lorna Raver, and Dileep Rao, Sam Raimi's story about a girl cursed by a gypsy is a trip well worth taking. In the spirit of Raimi's first horror film, "The Evil Dead," this is a rollercoaster ride from beginning to end, with endless scares, a great sense of humor, and loads of goo. Adding this to your collection is a no-brainer.
12) Trick 'r Treat (2008)- From the writer of "X2: X-Men United" comes an anthology horror film that actually beats "Creepshow." The four tales are woven into the traditional night of Halloween. Two of the tales are fun while the other two are just chilling: A virginal college girl joins her friends in a party in the woods, a night in the life of a serial killer is examined, a group of kids discover that an urban legend is true, and a cranky old man gets an unwelcome visit from a maniacal trick or treater. Why such a great horror film like this sat on the Warner Bros. shelf for so long is beyond me, but I'm so glad I got to watch this it. "Trick 'r Treat" embraces the Halloween holiday so much, and is very funny at times. Check this off your must-see list.
13) May (2002)- Angela Bettis stars as lazy-eyed May, an outcast whose only friend is a ceramic doll she keeps in a box. After being rejected by a boy she has a major crush on, May finds that if you can't find a friend, make one. On Halloween, May decides to go Frankenstein and steal the body parts of others to create the perfect friend. Lucky McKee's story is extremely quirky and bizarre, and you feel sympathy towards May throughout the film. Bettis is fantastic in the title role, and Anna Faris is hilarious as her lesbian pal.
14) The Strangers (2007)- Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman play a couple who are terrorized by unknown maniacs in their halfway home in the woods. Atmosphere is not the only trait that lifts this movie beyond other horror films. We never really find out who these strangers are or what their motive is, which makes this movie just as scary as I thought it would be. This is THE definitive home-invasion horror film that all others will try and fail to surpass.
15) Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008)- The story is about a futuristic society that has been plagued by an epidemic. Thanks to GeneCo, the society's popular biotech company, an organ-financing program is created. If the patient is unable to pay for the organ that is donated, they are given time by GeneCo to pay up. And if they can't come up with the money in the duration of time given, GeneCo sends out The Repo Man to reposess the organ...in the bloodiest ways. The story surrounding this wonderful horror rock opera is more interesting than you'd think it would be. This film gives you the feeling of watching a midnight showing of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," and I can already tell you that it will be a cult classic. You have the imaginative director Darren Lynn Bousman("Saw II") behind the camera. It has a surprising and entertaining cast, including Anthony Head(TV's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer")and Alexa Vega("Spy Kids"). Sarah Brightman is so beautiful and has an amazing voice. It's no wonder she was the star in her ex-husband Andrew Lloyd Webber's Broadway hit "The Phantom of the Opera." "Repo!" offers so much more than your average rock musical.
16) Jeepers Creepers (2001)- Driving home after a spring break fling, Trish Jenner and her brother Darry stumble upon a church that leads underground to the home of a maniac that surrounds himself with hundreds of dead bodies. They try to warn the police, but nobody believes them. Until the person attacks the town. Only it's not a person. Victor Salva's tale is a classic, old-fashioned monster movie with plenty of violence, good performances by the two leads, and an imaginative and original monster that you have every reason to be scared of.
17) The Crazies (2010)- In the town of Ogden Marsh, people are slowly losing their mind and terrorizing others. Soon, the virus that is eating away at this town will be spread nationwide. Can sheriff David Dutton and his wife Judy survive the nightmare? That's right. I'm listing the remake of George Romero's 1973 horror flick as one of the best of the decade. It has flawless acting and plenty of scares. But it's the social commentary littered throughout the film that makes it so nerve-wracking. Diseases, like H1N1 and AIDS, are referenced very much, as well as paranoia and the feeling that this could really happen. Even the most dedicated fan of the genre will be freaked out by this movie. "The Crazies" is one of the best remakes out there.
18) 30 Days of Night (2007)- Based on Steve Niles' popular graphic novel, this film takes us to Barrow, Alaska, a town that is heading into their month of darkness. The town sheriff Eben, his wife Stella, and several other people are the only ones left alive after a random pack of vampires attack. Can Eben and Stella live to see sunlight, or will the fanged creatures destroy the town forever? From David Slade, director of "Hard Candy," comes a real vampire movie. It's gory, it's mean-spirited, it's frightening, and the production design is fantastic. Plus, you have the star-power of Josh Hartnett and Melissa George. Forget "Twilight!" You want vampires? These are vampires!
19) Orphan (2009)- Peter Sarsgaard and Vera Farmiga star as John and Kate, a couple looking to adopt a child. It's not an easy decision, but they make their choice right away when they meet Esther, a Russian orphan just looking for love. But very quickly, things get weird. She begins to exhibit extremely bizarre behavior, and gets in trouble with others. Something is wrong with Esther, and it's up to Kate to stop it. Not your average "killer kid" flick, "Orphan" is disturbing and plenty scary, and you won't believe the twist at the end of the film!
20) Paranormal Activity (2007)- The haunted house story that was put off for two years and demanded in cities nationwide is one of 2009's most creepy and disturbing horror films you'll watch this year. Suspense builds slowly as the events that are happening while Katie and Micah sleep become downright shocking and terrifying, and the climax will remain embedded in your mind for weeks. Are the other viewers right when they say that you won't be able to sleep after watching "Paranormal Activity?" Definitely.
2) The Descent (2005)- A group of daredevil women go spelunking and get stuck inside the cave. Searching for a way out, they realize that they are not alone. This film is what a horror movie should be. You get claustrophobia, fear of the dark, strong independent leads, and some of the most horrifying monsters since "Aliens." Definitely one of the scariest movies I've ever seen.
3) The Others (2001)- In the tradition of "The Haunting," "The Others" is about a woman sheltering her children in a dark mansion due to their allergies caused by sunlight. After the woman hires servants to work around the house, strange things happen. Why does the daughter tell stories of an imaginary boy named Victor? Why are there sudden noises around the mansion? The servants know nothing, and the children are not playing around. Who is threatening the lives of this woman and her children? Directed by Alejandro Amenabar, this good, old-fashioned ghost story will chill you to the bone.
4) The Mist (2007)- Stephen King's tale of an impending fog surrounding a supermarket is creepy and tragic, and it has an amazing cast. Marcia Gay Harden's performance as a twisted religious fanatic should have been Oscar-worthy.
5) Final Destination (2000)- One of the most original horror movies of the decade. After a boy has a premonition of a plane exploding, he and other passengers are thrown off the plane, only to discover that the plane does explode just minutes afterwards. In time, death itself begins to pick off the kids in the order that they were meant to die on the plane. Gory and smart, "Final Destination" is a big surprise.
6) Saw (2004)- A very different slasher movie about a serial killer by the name of Jigsaw. Jigsaw only has one perogative, and that is to play torturous games with his victims and make them realize whether or not their life is worth living. While two people are trapped in a dilapidated bathroom, Jigsaw holds hostage two of the family members of one of the victims. How far will this doctor go to stop Jigsaw and save the life of his wife and daughter? "Saw" reminds you very much of David Fincher's "Seven," only this film makes your skin crawl and stomach churn a lot more than the other. It's not for the faint of heart.
7) 1408 (2007)- Another Stephen King tale in the vein of "The Shining." John Cusack stars as Mike Enslin, an author who has seen it all. He's been to the haunted houses and the hotels. Nothing has ever truly happened. Mike later sets his sights on The Dolphin Hotel, home to the infamous room 1408, where terrible things have occurred. Staying in 1408 is not permitted, but Mike is able to persuade the hotel manager to hand over the key. The truth is there really is something wrong with room 1408, and Mike has a big problem on his hands. It's a little bit of a ghost story, but it's not the ghosts in "1408" that scare the viewer. It's the room's ability to drive Mike Enslin to the brink of madness. An expertly crafted horror film that boasts the wonderful performances of Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson.
8) The House of the Devil (2009)- A girl looking for money is given a babysitting job in the house of Vincent and Vivian Ullman, who are hiding a dark and terrifying secret. Ti West's Satanic tale is not too much about gore. It's more about the unsettling suspense the viewer goes through until the blood-curdling climax. It's eerie and perfect, with A-grade performances by Jocelin Donahue, Tom Noonan, Mary Woronov, and Greta Girwig. "The House of the Devil" is a real horror gem.
9) Dawn of the Dead (2004)- A remake of George Romero's 1978 zombie flick, this one doesn't feature as much social commentary as it does loads of scares and gore, and the zombies have been turned into unstoppable, fast-running forces of nature that you can't escape. Great cast, especially Sarah Polley.
10) Frailty (2001)- Bill Paxton stars in and directs this Gothic horror/thriller about two boys whose father is a serial killer who believes he is doing God's will by eliminating demons from Earth, or in reality, just killing people and involving his children. Very unnerving and brutal, without really showing that much. Paxton's performance is chilling.
11) Drag Me To Hell (2009)- Starring Alison Lohman, Justin Long, Lorna Raver, and Dileep Rao, Sam Raimi's story about a girl cursed by a gypsy is a trip well worth taking. In the spirit of Raimi's first horror film, "The Evil Dead," this is a rollercoaster ride from beginning to end, with endless scares, a great sense of humor, and loads of goo. Adding this to your collection is a no-brainer.
12) Trick 'r Treat (2008)- From the writer of "X2: X-Men United" comes an anthology horror film that actually beats "Creepshow." The four tales are woven into the traditional night of Halloween. Two of the tales are fun while the other two are just chilling: A virginal college girl joins her friends in a party in the woods, a night in the life of a serial killer is examined, a group of kids discover that an urban legend is true, and a cranky old man gets an unwelcome visit from a maniacal trick or treater. Why such a great horror film like this sat on the Warner Bros. shelf for so long is beyond me, but I'm so glad I got to watch this it. "Trick 'r Treat" embraces the Halloween holiday so much, and is very funny at times. Check this off your must-see list.
13) May (2002)- Angela Bettis stars as lazy-eyed May, an outcast whose only friend is a ceramic doll she keeps in a box. After being rejected by a boy she has a major crush on, May finds that if you can't find a friend, make one. On Halloween, May decides to go Frankenstein and steal the body parts of others to create the perfect friend. Lucky McKee's story is extremely quirky and bizarre, and you feel sympathy towards May throughout the film. Bettis is fantastic in the title role, and Anna Faris is hilarious as her lesbian pal.
14) The Strangers (2007)- Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman play a couple who are terrorized by unknown maniacs in their halfway home in the woods. Atmosphere is not the only trait that lifts this movie beyond other horror films. We never really find out who these strangers are or what their motive is, which makes this movie just as scary as I thought it would be. This is THE definitive home-invasion horror film that all others will try and fail to surpass.
15) Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008)- The story is about a futuristic society that has been plagued by an epidemic. Thanks to GeneCo, the society's popular biotech company, an organ-financing program is created. If the patient is unable to pay for the organ that is donated, they are given time by GeneCo to pay up. And if they can't come up with the money in the duration of time given, GeneCo sends out The Repo Man to reposess the organ...in the bloodiest ways. The story surrounding this wonderful horror rock opera is more interesting than you'd think it would be. This film gives you the feeling of watching a midnight showing of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," and I can already tell you that it will be a cult classic. You have the imaginative director Darren Lynn Bousman("Saw II") behind the camera. It has a surprising and entertaining cast, including Anthony Head(TV's "Buffy the Vampire Slayer")and Alexa Vega("Spy Kids"). Sarah Brightman is so beautiful and has an amazing voice. It's no wonder she was the star in her ex-husband Andrew Lloyd Webber's Broadway hit "The Phantom of the Opera." "Repo!" offers so much more than your average rock musical.
16) Jeepers Creepers (2001)- Driving home after a spring break fling, Trish Jenner and her brother Darry stumble upon a church that leads underground to the home of a maniac that surrounds himself with hundreds of dead bodies. They try to warn the police, but nobody believes them. Until the person attacks the town. Only it's not a person. Victor Salva's tale is a classic, old-fashioned monster movie with plenty of violence, good performances by the two leads, and an imaginative and original monster that you have every reason to be scared of.
17) The Crazies (2010)- In the town of Ogden Marsh, people are slowly losing their mind and terrorizing others. Soon, the virus that is eating away at this town will be spread nationwide. Can sheriff David Dutton and his wife Judy survive the nightmare? That's right. I'm listing the remake of George Romero's 1973 horror flick as one of the best of the decade. It has flawless acting and plenty of scares. But it's the social commentary littered throughout the film that makes it so nerve-wracking. Diseases, like H1N1 and AIDS, are referenced very much, as well as paranoia and the feeling that this could really happen. Even the most dedicated fan of the genre will be freaked out by this movie. "The Crazies" is one of the best remakes out there.
18) 30 Days of Night (2007)- Based on Steve Niles' popular graphic novel, this film takes us to Barrow, Alaska, a town that is heading into their month of darkness. The town sheriff Eben, his wife Stella, and several other people are the only ones left alive after a random pack of vampires attack. Can Eben and Stella live to see sunlight, or will the fanged creatures destroy the town forever? From David Slade, director of "Hard Candy," comes a real vampire movie. It's gory, it's mean-spirited, it's frightening, and the production design is fantastic. Plus, you have the star-power of Josh Hartnett and Melissa George. Forget "Twilight!" You want vampires? These are vampires!
19) Orphan (2009)- Peter Sarsgaard and Vera Farmiga star as John and Kate, a couple looking to adopt a child. It's not an easy decision, but they make their choice right away when they meet Esther, a Russian orphan just looking for love. But very quickly, things get weird. She begins to exhibit extremely bizarre behavior, and gets in trouble with others. Something is wrong with Esther, and it's up to Kate to stop it. Not your average "killer kid" flick, "Orphan" is disturbing and plenty scary, and you won't believe the twist at the end of the film!
20) Paranormal Activity (2007)- The haunted house story that was put off for two years and demanded in cities nationwide is one of 2009's most creepy and disturbing horror films you'll watch this year. Suspense builds slowly as the events that are happening while Katie and Micah sleep become downright shocking and terrifying, and the climax will remain embedded in your mind for weeks. Are the other viewers right when they say that you won't be able to sleep after watching "Paranormal Activity?" Definitely.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Top 10 Slasher Films of the 1980's
In the 80's, a new kind of horror began. After being introduced to the iconic Jason Voorhees, many slasher films followed that were panned during their release, but several of them actually have something strong in them. These are the best slasher films of the 1980's.
1) Happy Birthday To Me (1981)- Melissa Sue Anderson and Glen Ford star in this classic slasher about a high school girl traumatized by her troubled past. Slowly, her friends, whom are known as The Crawford Academy Top Ten, begin to die one by one in the events leading up to her birthday. Could she have something to do with it? This one is deeply underrated. It's a horror film that is truly ahead of its time. It's smart, it's strange, it's bloody, and it has a great cast. This is one delicious slice of cake for any horror fan.
2) Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)- After Pamela Voorhees struck terror into the hearts of counselors at Camp Crystal Lake, along came a sequel to the classic horror hit. A new batch of horny, drugged-up, fun-loving teens start training to be counselors at a camp near Camp Crystal Lake. Does anybody smell trouble already? "Friday the 13th Part 2" was the first film in the series to feature Jason as the actual killer. It's great fun to watch, there are wonderful kills, and in a weird way, you sympathize with Jason. "Part 2" is good luck, not bad.
3) He Knows You're Alone (1980)- Armand Mastroianni's film is different from the others in that the killer mostly targets women scheduled to get married. This one is not too gory, and that's good. "He Knows You're Alone" is more about suspense and paranoia than sex and blood. Caitlyn O' Heaney gives a likeable performance as Amy, and the music is very creepy.
4) The Burning (1980)- Another camp slasher in the tradition of "Friday the 13th," but is almost better, in a way. Thanks to our three enjoyable leads, some interesting cameos, plenty of nudity, and Tom Savini's makeup effects, this one's a winner!
5) Terror Train (1980)- After "Halloween" and "Prom Night" came "Terror Train," another Jamie Lee Curtis slasher vehicle that is fun and scary. College kids celebrate their graduation by having a party on a train. Now, here's the bad news. An unwelcome guest is on board, slicing his way through the masked teens. Could it be somebody from their past? Check this one out.
6) My Bloody Valentine (1981)- Miner attacks locals on Valentine's Day with a large pickaxe. The movie that inspired the remake. It's damn creepy and good fun for the genre fan.
7) Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)- My favorite "Halloween" sequel. Enough said.
8) The Funhouse (1981)- Tobe Hooper's slasher about four teens who spend the night in a carnival funhouse and get sliced and diced by someone, or something, in a Frankenstein mask. Chilling atmosphere is the highlight of this horror romp.
9) Hell Night (1981)- Teens pledging Alpha Sigma Rho begin intiation by spending the night in Garth Manor, home to a mysterious madman. Linda Blair is awesome in this film that feels like a mix of "The Funhouse" and old Universal monster movies.
10) The House on Sorority Row (1983)- Have you ever seen "Sorority Row?" This is the movie that inspired it. Give it a watch. It's a slasher filled with pizazz and energy.
1) Happy Birthday To Me (1981)- Melissa Sue Anderson and Glen Ford star in this classic slasher about a high school girl traumatized by her troubled past. Slowly, her friends, whom are known as The Crawford Academy Top Ten, begin to die one by one in the events leading up to her birthday. Could she have something to do with it? This one is deeply underrated. It's a horror film that is truly ahead of its time. It's smart, it's strange, it's bloody, and it has a great cast. This is one delicious slice of cake for any horror fan.
2) Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)- After Pamela Voorhees struck terror into the hearts of counselors at Camp Crystal Lake, along came a sequel to the classic horror hit. A new batch of horny, drugged-up, fun-loving teens start training to be counselors at a camp near Camp Crystal Lake. Does anybody smell trouble already? "Friday the 13th Part 2" was the first film in the series to feature Jason as the actual killer. It's great fun to watch, there are wonderful kills, and in a weird way, you sympathize with Jason. "Part 2" is good luck, not bad.
3) He Knows You're Alone (1980)- Armand Mastroianni's film is different from the others in that the killer mostly targets women scheduled to get married. This one is not too gory, and that's good. "He Knows You're Alone" is more about suspense and paranoia than sex and blood. Caitlyn O' Heaney gives a likeable performance as Amy, and the music is very creepy.
4) The Burning (1980)- Another camp slasher in the tradition of "Friday the 13th," but is almost better, in a way. Thanks to our three enjoyable leads, some interesting cameos, plenty of nudity, and Tom Savini's makeup effects, this one's a winner!
5) Terror Train (1980)- After "Halloween" and "Prom Night" came "Terror Train," another Jamie Lee Curtis slasher vehicle that is fun and scary. College kids celebrate their graduation by having a party on a train. Now, here's the bad news. An unwelcome guest is on board, slicing his way through the masked teens. Could it be somebody from their past? Check this one out.
6) My Bloody Valentine (1981)- Miner attacks locals on Valentine's Day with a large pickaxe. The movie that inspired the remake. It's damn creepy and good fun for the genre fan.
7) Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988)- My favorite "Halloween" sequel. Enough said.
8) The Funhouse (1981)- Tobe Hooper's slasher about four teens who spend the night in a carnival funhouse and get sliced and diced by someone, or something, in a Frankenstein mask. Chilling atmosphere is the highlight of this horror romp.
9) Hell Night (1981)- Teens pledging Alpha Sigma Rho begin intiation by spending the night in Garth Manor, home to a mysterious madman. Linda Blair is awesome in this film that feels like a mix of "The Funhouse" and old Universal monster movies.
10) The House on Sorority Row (1983)- Have you ever seen "Sorority Row?" This is the movie that inspired it. Give it a watch. It's a slasher filled with pizazz and energy.
My Favorite Horror Films of the 1970's
1) Halloween (1978)- Jamie Lee Curtis makes her big debut in this classic movie about a serial killer who escapes from a mental asylum and returns to his hometown to kill on Halloween Night. Super scary and creepy, and the acting is top-notch all around. If it weren't for this movie, there wouldn't be such an iconic masked killer by the name of Michael Myers.
2) The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)- Kids are traveling through Texas, run out of gas and find a house that belongs to a skin-ripping cannibal family. Tobe Hooper takes a simple premise and creates one of the most disturbing, horrifying, and insane horror classics ever made. Leatherface's name has become synonymous with the genre. Actress Marilyn Burns's screaming will last in your head for hours. Multiple showers are guaranteed.
3) Jaws (1975)- Steven Spielberg's masterpiece about a 25-foot, 3-ton Great White shark that attacks a New England town, leading to the showdown between the shark, Chief Martin Brody, marine biologist Matt Hooper, and sea captain Quint. Without a doubt the most frightening PG-rated movie of all time.
4) The Exorcist (1973)- Two priests join forces to end the demonic posession of an innocent 12 year-old girl. The movie that changed horror forever. Need I say more?
5) The Omen (1976)- Ambassador Robert Thorn and his wife Katherine adopt a baby that grows up to be Damien, which leads to horrifying accidents. Could Damien be the Antichrist? Suspenseful, shocking, and atmospheric are all perfect words to describe Richard Donner's film. Jerry Goldsmith almost dominates the movie with a blood-curdling score.
6) Black Christmas (1974)- Olivia Hussey, Keir Dullea, Margot Kidder, Andrea Martin, and John Saxon star in this cult slasher film about a stranger who hides out in the attic of a sorority house and kills each girl one by one on Christmas Day. Extremely creepy and unnerving, and a hilarious performance by Margot Kidder as one of the girls. Who knew Bob Clark, director of "Porky's" and "A Christmas Story" would start his career with this?
7) Phantasm (1979)-Don Coscarelli's eerie nightmare about The Tall Man and his funeral parlor of horrors. The acting isn't the best component, but this movie is all about atmosphere and surrealism, and Angus Scrimm's performance as The Tall Man is unforgettable.
8) The Amityville Horror (1979)- Your classic modern-day haunted house movie about a family who moves into a house on Long Island that is plagued by the murders of the family that lived there before. Ghosts are aplenty in this film, and it will creep you out. Let's not forget the star power of James Brolin and Margot Kidder as George and Kathy Lutz. Inspired by a true story.
9) Suspiria (1977)- The best of all foreign horror films. Dario Argento weaves a tale of a girl who travels to a ballet school and discovers it's a witch coven. While it is a brutal and frightening film, Argento's trademark murders are filmed beautifully and with loads of style. Don't watch this at night!
10) Carrie (1976)- Based on the classic novel by Stephen King, this is the story of Carrie White, an outcast bullied by everyone in her school and labeled a sinner by a religious nutcase of a mother. When things are taken too far on the night of her senior prom, Carrie decides to use her newly-discovered power of telekinesis and make these teenagers pay. This intense drama takes a hard left turn and becomes a horror movie to remember. Brian De Palma's directorial skill is aided by the outstanding performances of his cast, especially Sissy Spacek as Carrie and Piper Laurie as Margaret White.
11) The Stepford Wives (1975)- After the adaptation of Ira Levin's "Rosemary's Baby" came the next story in his repertoire, "The Stepford Wives." Joanna Eberhardt, her husband, and their two children move to the town of Stepford, where the housewives seem a little too human. Levin's story is satirical at times, mocking the 60's generation of a Beaver Cleaver-like Americana. At other times, it's weird and creepy. Katharine Ross gives a great performance as Joanna.
2) The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)- Kids are traveling through Texas, run out of gas and find a house that belongs to a skin-ripping cannibal family. Tobe Hooper takes a simple premise and creates one of the most disturbing, horrifying, and insane horror classics ever made. Leatherface's name has become synonymous with the genre. Actress Marilyn Burns's screaming will last in your head for hours. Multiple showers are guaranteed.
3) Jaws (1975)- Steven Spielberg's masterpiece about a 25-foot, 3-ton Great White shark that attacks a New England town, leading to the showdown between the shark, Chief Martin Brody, marine biologist Matt Hooper, and sea captain Quint. Without a doubt the most frightening PG-rated movie of all time.
4) The Exorcist (1973)- Two priests join forces to end the demonic posession of an innocent 12 year-old girl. The movie that changed horror forever. Need I say more?
5) The Omen (1976)- Ambassador Robert Thorn and his wife Katherine adopt a baby that grows up to be Damien, which leads to horrifying accidents. Could Damien be the Antichrist? Suspenseful, shocking, and atmospheric are all perfect words to describe Richard Donner's film. Jerry Goldsmith almost dominates the movie with a blood-curdling score.
6) Black Christmas (1974)- Olivia Hussey, Keir Dullea, Margot Kidder, Andrea Martin, and John Saxon star in this cult slasher film about a stranger who hides out in the attic of a sorority house and kills each girl one by one on Christmas Day. Extremely creepy and unnerving, and a hilarious performance by Margot Kidder as one of the girls. Who knew Bob Clark, director of "Porky's" and "A Christmas Story" would start his career with this?
7) Phantasm (1979)-Don Coscarelli's eerie nightmare about The Tall Man and his funeral parlor of horrors. The acting isn't the best component, but this movie is all about atmosphere and surrealism, and Angus Scrimm's performance as The Tall Man is unforgettable.
8) The Amityville Horror (1979)- Your classic modern-day haunted house movie about a family who moves into a house on Long Island that is plagued by the murders of the family that lived there before. Ghosts are aplenty in this film, and it will creep you out. Let's not forget the star power of James Brolin and Margot Kidder as George and Kathy Lutz. Inspired by a true story.
9) Suspiria (1977)- The best of all foreign horror films. Dario Argento weaves a tale of a girl who travels to a ballet school and discovers it's a witch coven. While it is a brutal and frightening film, Argento's trademark murders are filmed beautifully and with loads of style. Don't watch this at night!
10) Carrie (1976)- Based on the classic novel by Stephen King, this is the story of Carrie White, an outcast bullied by everyone in her school and labeled a sinner by a religious nutcase of a mother. When things are taken too far on the night of her senior prom, Carrie decides to use her newly-discovered power of telekinesis and make these teenagers pay. This intense drama takes a hard left turn and becomes a horror movie to remember. Brian De Palma's directorial skill is aided by the outstanding performances of his cast, especially Sissy Spacek as Carrie and Piper Laurie as Margaret White.
11) The Stepford Wives (1975)- After the adaptation of Ira Levin's "Rosemary's Baby" came the next story in his repertoire, "The Stepford Wives." Joanna Eberhardt, her husband, and their two children move to the town of Stepford, where the housewives seem a little too human. Levin's story is satirical at times, mocking the 60's generation of a Beaver Cleaver-like Americana. At other times, it's weird and creepy. Katharine Ross gives a great performance as Joanna.
Friday, June 11, 2010
My Favorite Horror Films of the 1960's
The title speaks for itself.
1) The Haunting (1963)- A group of people spend a few nights at the infamous Hill House to find any sort of supernatural occurrences. And that's what they get. Robert Wise's ghost story is probably the best ever made, keeping the audience completely in suspense and letting their imagination run as a ghostly apparition is never found onscreen. Indeed, what you don't see is scarier than what you do see. Based on Shirley Jackson's "The Haunting of Hill House," there's no doubt that this film will give you chills.
2) Psycho (1960)- Marion Crane embezzles 40,000 dollars and spends the night at the homey Bates Motel, run by the shy Norman Bates, who's got a terrifying secret hidden in his house on the hill. Gotta love Alfred Hitchcock! "Psycho" is not only a perfect horror film, but a template in the history of cinema as well. Pitch-perfect atmosphere, a classic mind-numbing score by Bernard Hermann, and a performance by Anthony Perkins that will be remembered forever. To this day, the shower scene is still a shocker!
3) Rosemary's Baby (1968)- Guy and Rosemary Woodhouse, a happily married couple, buy an apartment in the Bramford, which leads to Rosemary's weird dreams, paranoid ideas of the elderly Castevet couple next door, and fear that something terrible is going to happen to her unborn baby. Roman Polanski's journey into the heart of paranoia and psychological horror is to die for. Not a single moment in this film goes by that isn't creepy or surreal. And Mia Farrow's performance as Rosemary is perfect. Aided by a strong cast, including John Cassavetes and Ruth Gordon, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Minnie Castevet, and a bizarre musical score, you should be ashamed if you haven't seen "Rosemary's Baby."
4) The Innocents (1961)- Classic gothic horror about Miss Giddens, an 1800's governess who travels to the Blye mansion to care for the young Miles and Flora. Not all is well at the Blye mansion as Miss Giddens begins to experience strange happenings and see horrific figures around the house. Could Miles and Flora have something to do with it? Another ghost story in the vein of "The Haunting" that is weird and eerie. Great atmosphere is the sole purpose of the film, and it succeeds nicely. A wonderful performance from Deborah Kerr as Miss Giddens.
1) The Haunting (1963)- A group of people spend a few nights at the infamous Hill House to find any sort of supernatural occurrences. And that's what they get. Robert Wise's ghost story is probably the best ever made, keeping the audience completely in suspense and letting their imagination run as a ghostly apparition is never found onscreen. Indeed, what you don't see is scarier than what you do see. Based on Shirley Jackson's "The Haunting of Hill House," there's no doubt that this film will give you chills.
2) Psycho (1960)- Marion Crane embezzles 40,000 dollars and spends the night at the homey Bates Motel, run by the shy Norman Bates, who's got a terrifying secret hidden in his house on the hill. Gotta love Alfred Hitchcock! "Psycho" is not only a perfect horror film, but a template in the history of cinema as well. Pitch-perfect atmosphere, a classic mind-numbing score by Bernard Hermann, and a performance by Anthony Perkins that will be remembered forever. To this day, the shower scene is still a shocker!
3) Rosemary's Baby (1968)- Guy and Rosemary Woodhouse, a happily married couple, buy an apartment in the Bramford, which leads to Rosemary's weird dreams, paranoid ideas of the elderly Castevet couple next door, and fear that something terrible is going to happen to her unborn baby. Roman Polanski's journey into the heart of paranoia and psychological horror is to die for. Not a single moment in this film goes by that isn't creepy or surreal. And Mia Farrow's performance as Rosemary is perfect. Aided by a strong cast, including John Cassavetes and Ruth Gordon, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Minnie Castevet, and a bizarre musical score, you should be ashamed if you haven't seen "Rosemary's Baby."
4) The Innocents (1961)- Classic gothic horror about Miss Giddens, an 1800's governess who travels to the Blye mansion to care for the young Miles and Flora. Not all is well at the Blye mansion as Miss Giddens begins to experience strange happenings and see horrific figures around the house. Could Miles and Flora have something to do with it? Another ghost story in the vein of "The Haunting" that is weird and eerie. Great atmosphere is the sole purpose of the film, and it succeeds nicely. A wonderful performance from Deborah Kerr as Miss Giddens.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
A Nightmare on Elm Street: The Sequels
We all know how classic the 1984 horror film was and is. Do I really need to grade it? No. But after watching the documentary "Never Sleep Again: The Elm Street Legacy," I realized that the films that followed have something that makes them better than I thought they were. Time to grade the "Nightmare On Elm Street" sequels.
1) A Nightmare On Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge (1985)- In this sequel, a boy named Jesse Walsh and his family move into Nancy Thompson's old house on 1428 Elm Street, and he discovers what happened there. Jesse slowly realizes that Freddy Krueger is not finished with his work in Springwood, and he's found a new companion to kill for him...Jesse himself! With the help of his high school sweetheart Lisa, Jesse must stop Freddy's reign of terror before it's too late. Freddy is still pretty scary in this sequel, and not a single sense of humor in him is evident at all. If you can overlook the awkward and unintentional gay overtones(including the line "Something is trying to get inside my body" and the shower sequence), "Freddy's Revenge" is actually a good sequel. B-
2) A Nightmare On Elm Street 3: The Dream Warriors (1987)- Heather Langenkamp returns as Nancy, who is now a psychologist trying to help damaged teens in a mental hospital who can't sleep. After one kid dies, it is obvious that Freddy Krueger is back to kill what's left of the Elm Street children. And it's up to the remaining 6 teens to use their hidden power and kill the dream-stalker. There is almost nothing wrong with this third "Nightmare." It boasts great dream sequences, a Freddy who is funny but still very creepy, Langenkamp's triumphant return as well as John Saxon's, and the big debut of Patricia Arquette. Just the music could have used a bit of work. Overall, a great sequel. A-
3) A Nightmare On Elm Street 4: The Dream Master (1988)- Another batch of Elm Street kids are terrorized by Freddy, and it's up to Alice to stop him once and for all. This is the point when Freddy isn't scary anymore. However, Robert Englund delivers his wisecracks with relish, making Freddy a very macabre comedian. The dream sequences are quite cool, and there's great special effects. Lisa Wilcox makes Alice a very plucky and sympathetic heroine, and I liked her performance very much. Certainly not the original, but still very good. And I'm big fan of director Renny Harlin(Die Hard 2 and Deep Blue Sea). B+
4) A Nightmare On Elm Street 5: The Dream Child (1989)- "It's a boy!!!!" Freddy Krueger returns to haunt more dreams while taking over the nightmares of Alice's unborn son. Great special effects, as always, abound in this one. And it has an interesting story. But it does have its flaws. Some of these people look a little bit too old to be graduating high school, the script feels a little bit rushed, and Freddy's jokes are a little close to hitting the line of stupidity. But thankfully, they don't. I'm not saying you should steer clear of Part 5, but altogether, it's just decent. C+
5) Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991)- Another group of teens battle Freddy in their dreams while a young woman figures out her dark secret that connects to the dream figure. "Freddy's Dead" is almost laughably bad. Some of Freddy's wisecracks are tasteless and very bland. The acting isn't terrible, that's one good thing. But the story isn't interesting and feels formulaic. However, if you don't take it seriously, it's an okay bad movie. Let's be thankful I'm not giving this one an F. D+
6) Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)- Heather Langenkamp is living with her son and husband, and has a good life. But dreams become a reality as those involved with the "Nightmare On Elm Street" movies begin to die one by one. Is Freddy really the cause of these deaths? Unfortunately, yes. Now this is what I'm talking about. Craven's return to his roots is perfect. It's witty, terrifying, gory, and fun. An intelligent premise is not the only thing that's great about this movie. The performances of the cast are marvelous as everyone from the "Elm Street" movies play themselves. Heather Langenkamp's dynamite performance is one to remember. And Robert Englund takes you on a frightening roller coaster ride, playing Freddy with no wisecracks or mercy. He has brought back Freddy's fear factor. Before "New Nightmare," I thought Part 3 was the best of the series. But I think it's safe to say that this one's the best of them since the original. A+
1) A Nightmare On Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge (1985)- In this sequel, a boy named Jesse Walsh and his family move into Nancy Thompson's old house on 1428 Elm Street, and he discovers what happened there. Jesse slowly realizes that Freddy Krueger is not finished with his work in Springwood, and he's found a new companion to kill for him...Jesse himself! With the help of his high school sweetheart Lisa, Jesse must stop Freddy's reign of terror before it's too late. Freddy is still pretty scary in this sequel, and not a single sense of humor in him is evident at all. If you can overlook the awkward and unintentional gay overtones(including the line "Something is trying to get inside my body" and the shower sequence), "Freddy's Revenge" is actually a good sequel. B-
2) A Nightmare On Elm Street 3: The Dream Warriors (1987)- Heather Langenkamp returns as Nancy, who is now a psychologist trying to help damaged teens in a mental hospital who can't sleep. After one kid dies, it is obvious that Freddy Krueger is back to kill what's left of the Elm Street children. And it's up to the remaining 6 teens to use their hidden power and kill the dream-stalker. There is almost nothing wrong with this third "Nightmare." It boasts great dream sequences, a Freddy who is funny but still very creepy, Langenkamp's triumphant return as well as John Saxon's, and the big debut of Patricia Arquette. Just the music could have used a bit of work. Overall, a great sequel. A-
3) A Nightmare On Elm Street 4: The Dream Master (1988)- Another batch of Elm Street kids are terrorized by Freddy, and it's up to Alice to stop him once and for all. This is the point when Freddy isn't scary anymore. However, Robert Englund delivers his wisecracks with relish, making Freddy a very macabre comedian. The dream sequences are quite cool, and there's great special effects. Lisa Wilcox makes Alice a very plucky and sympathetic heroine, and I liked her performance very much. Certainly not the original, but still very good. And I'm big fan of director Renny Harlin(Die Hard 2 and Deep Blue Sea). B+
4) A Nightmare On Elm Street 5: The Dream Child (1989)- "It's a boy!!!!" Freddy Krueger returns to haunt more dreams while taking over the nightmares of Alice's unborn son. Great special effects, as always, abound in this one. And it has an interesting story. But it does have its flaws. Some of these people look a little bit too old to be graduating high school, the script feels a little bit rushed, and Freddy's jokes are a little close to hitting the line of stupidity. But thankfully, they don't. I'm not saying you should steer clear of Part 5, but altogether, it's just decent. C+
5) Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991)- Another group of teens battle Freddy in their dreams while a young woman figures out her dark secret that connects to the dream figure. "Freddy's Dead" is almost laughably bad. Some of Freddy's wisecracks are tasteless and very bland. The acting isn't terrible, that's one good thing. But the story isn't interesting and feels formulaic. However, if you don't take it seriously, it's an okay bad movie. Let's be thankful I'm not giving this one an F. D+
6) Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994)- Heather Langenkamp is living with her son and husband, and has a good life. But dreams become a reality as those involved with the "Nightmare On Elm Street" movies begin to die one by one. Is Freddy really the cause of these deaths? Unfortunately, yes. Now this is what I'm talking about. Craven's return to his roots is perfect. It's witty, terrifying, gory, and fun. An intelligent premise is not the only thing that's great about this movie. The performances of the cast are marvelous as everyone from the "Elm Street" movies play themselves. Heather Langenkamp's dynamite performance is one to remember. And Robert Englund takes you on a frightening roller coaster ride, playing Freddy with no wisecracks or mercy. He has brought back Freddy's fear factor. Before "New Nightmare," I thought Part 3 was the best of the series. But I think it's safe to say that this one's the best of them since the original. A+
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