TEN FILMS TO WATCH THIS HALLOWEEN
With Halloween fast approaching, here is my list of ten must see films this spooky season. The films increase in spookiness as the list goes on. So, if you’re prone to hide behind a cushion, stick to the first few films. Conversely, if you’re here for a Halloween thrill, check out those towards the end. You have been warned!
Hocus Pocus
Kenny Ortega (1993)
This early 90’s witch film is an absolute must see. A nice watch for the whole family means there is no excuse to let this one pass you by. Capturing the spirit of the season, Hocus Pocus is full to the brim with Halloween staples. It will have you laughing and gasping as Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Namijy traverse Halloween night, 1993, having been in slumber for the past 300 years.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
Henry Selick (1993)
Is it a Halloween film? Is it a Christmas film? It’s both, trust me, it’s both. Inspired by a poem written by Tim Burton when he was working as an animator at Disney, this highly stylised animation has had a huge impact on not only film, but fashion and beyond. The world building of Tim Burton and the music of Danny Elfman combine to create a truly magical film that begs to be admired.
The ‘Burbs
Joe Dante (1989)
Tom Hanks’ staycation is ruined when spooky goings-on lead him away from his T.V. and beer and towards a potential murder investigation. This ‘horror in suburbia’ jaunt is thoroughly enjoyable and holds its suspense for the entire run time. With Hanks, Carrie Fisher, Corey Feldman and Courtney Gains leading the line, it was always prepped for success. Interestingly, the film had a very different ending before Hank’s name was attached.
The Witches
Nicolas Roeg (1990)
The incredible works of Roald Dahl have been the inspiration for a plethora of top-notch films over the years. The Witches is, in my humble opinion, an under-rated one. This fantastical look at the world through the eyes of a young boy has a certain depth that remains relevant to a young audience even thirty years after its initial release. With a re-make released this year, what better time to get re-acquainted with the story?
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Jim Sharman (1975)
THE midnight watch. Not many other films can boast the cult following that The Rocky Horror Picture Show can. This subversion of the horror genre is a good time from start to finish. There is no end of quotable lines, hilarious scenes and truly enjoyable songs that will have you up and dancing along with them. Tim Curry’s performance as the infamous Dr. Frank-N-Furter is a joy to behold. So, with a jump to the left and a step to the right, throw this film on and enjoy!
Nosferatu
F.W. Murnau (1922)
From a horror spoof to one of the films that defined the genre. German expressionism at its dizzying peak brings us this vampire film. The impact that this phenomenon has had upon not just horror, not just the film world, but everyday life is unfathomable. Unfortunately, over the years much of this classic has been lost to the world. Yet, what still remains is a true work of art and is a must see for any fan of Halloween.
Us
Jordan Peele (2019)
Jordan Peele has graced the world with his comedy for many years, now he is trying his hand at horror. And, he is knocking it out of the park. His horror debut Get Out is a masterpiece and only failed to make this list because Us has more Halloween themes splattered throughout. Lupita Nyong’o’s performance as two different characters is truly haunting. Inspired by the real event ‘hands across America’ in 1986, US will have you terrified as you contemplate the concept of your evil half, or are you the evil one?
Halloween
John Carpenter (1978)
The title says it all. This film absolutely cannot be missed at this time of the year. John Carpenter’s 1978 slasher hit lives up to the hype. Hailed as one of the films to usher in the slasher genre in the 80s, not many can stand up alongside this moody, dark, horror. Jamie Lee Curtis provides an excellent performance as our final girl Laurie Strode and Donald Pleasence excels as the psychiatrist Dr. Loomis. If you can take the creepy stalking and jump scares provided by ‘the shape’, this film is essential viewing.
Suspiria
Dario Argento (1977)
As the haunting score in this 1977 giallo film hints at early on, we have another witch film on our list. Director Dario Argento has lavished many great thrillers on the world; this is arguably the best. This slow building feature amps up the creepy factor notch by notch until it explodes. The use of colour throughout the picture is refreshing in a genre that usually leans towards greyscale, and while the on-screen blood used is far from believable, the meat Daniel’s dog is relishing is 100% real. The 2018 remake is haunting in its own way, but does not live up to the original.
The Exorcist
William Friedkin (1973)
You’ve seen the cover art, you’ve heard the quotes, you’re probably aware of the stories of people committing suicide after watching this possession horror. This is a scary film. A multitude of fear-inducing moments from this film will go down in cinema history for years to come. The Exorcist is hard to watch at times and it is surprising to learn that the catholic church even endorsed the film due to the priest hero. Grab a cushion to hide behind and leave the light on because Regan will give you nightmares!