Hello, fellow film critics and movie lovers! To celebrate the time of the season, I've decided to discuss some of my favorite movies to watch during the Halloween season. Some may be your typical choices, but others may come off as an obscure or even pleasant surprise. Ranging from stellar horror films to fun-filled goofy movies, here are my favorite films for the Halloween season.
Trick'r Treat (2007)
This horror film is the epitome of terror for the Halloween season. The movie tells a tale of one particular Halloween night in which a series of spooky events occur. From a tale of zombie schoolkids coming back from the dead to a virgin werewolf's first night out to kill, this festive film commemorates the holiday very well and remains one of the best horror films in recent years. It's a real treat laden with tricks!
Creepshow (1982)
Metaphorically, it's the precursor for Trick'r Treat. Creepshow started the idea of mini-episodes presented in a pulpy manner. This film, patterned with a talented cast of stars, is as humorous as it is terrifying. With an even balance of camp and stylish horror, this horror classic from George A. Romero and Stephen King suits the season and its creepy tone very well.
When Good Ghouls Go Bad (2001)
Now this one is a surprise to the unsuspecting reader that expects only the true horror and Halloween-themed classic. This obscure family Halloween film stars Christopher Lloyd as the main character's undead grandfather back by means of breaking a curse over the town forcing them to never celebrate Halloween. The movie, though not really scary or clever, is a lot of fun and filled with a ton of positive spirit for the holiday. Halloween is refreshed, restored, and glorified, showing its importance and true meaning with excellent storytelling and dialogue. This is one of my favorite Halloween films for its optimistic look at the holiday, which really does hit home for me.
Ernest Scared Stupid (1991)
To stray away from movies with meaning, I simply enjoy this one for its simplicity. There isn't much of a meaningful purpose behind this movie; it only makes me laugh. I've watched it ever since I was really little, and I still enjoy watching Ernest run around like a babbling idiot (as usual). It's a lot of crazy fun and, though not an expertly made film, is still a Halloween treat.
Halloween (1978)
This one doesn't take too much thinking to figure out. The iconic theme song, thick suspense, and excellent film-making make this film a staple for the holiday and its horror-marathoning fans.
The Evil Dead series (1981 - 1987)
Excluding Army of Darkness, the Evil Dead series lays out a perfect horror scenario and cleans house with a campy, bizarre bloodbath, both terrifying and entertaining the masses. At times, the movies are shot just well enough to induce nightmares, even in their low-budget simplicity. At other times, the dialogue and turn of events just gets so ridiculous that it's downright hilarious. The films feel like a horror funhouse. They're both a thrill and a laugh at the same time!
Boo (2005)
Now, this one is another obscure and subordinate Halloween movie in the eyes of the public. This horror takes place on Halloween when a group of teenagers break into an abandoned mental hospital that's claimed to be haunted. One by one, these teenagers become possessed and start fighting each other and "melting" at death. The movie is in no way the best, but it's still an interesting watch. It's much like an old movie from Sci-Fi; good for low quality expectations.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Firstly, this movie is NOT a Christmas movie! It's clearly a Halloween film. It starts on Halloween with Halloween characters and ends on Halloween. The film from the creative mind of Tim Burton has been known to bend its holiday intentions, but this is my argument. The movie has a memorable soundtrack with realistic themes and precise stop-motion animation. Since the very beginning of my life, this film has been a staple to my Halloween season marathon.
The Corpse Bride (2005)
Subsequently, this film is just as good and fitting for the season. With a gothic feel and haunting film-making, Burton creates another beautiful stop-motion creation. The whole concept of the undead and their world serves as ample evidence of a fun Halloween flick.
R. L. Stine's The Haunting Hour: Don't Think About It (2006)
Probably the most juvenile of the picks on my list, this movie makes the cut for its creepy atmosphere and impressive concept idea. The idea of a horrifying monster that comes to life and comes after you once you think about it is truly creative and a clever premise. With the writer's reigns being held by Goosebumps writer, R. L. Stine, the movie is bound to have an ample amount of scares and awesome plot twists for its target tween age group. I still watch this today for the memories it brings back and for recognition of its truly unique concept.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
You knew, if you've read any Halloween movie list or TV guide, that Hocus Pocus was going to make this list. The Halloween family classic is a notorious pick for all Halloween movie junkies to watch every season. Much like Halloween, this movie doesn't take much discussion to figure out why it's in my top Halloween list.
Well, fellow readers, you have reached the end of my list. Any surprises or was everything nice and predictable? These movies are all close to me for several different reasons whether it be content or childhood memory, and I try to watch them every Halloween season to celebrate. Maybe some of my picks are the same as yours. I hope each and every one of you have a safe, satisfying, and Happy Halloween! Thanks for reading my list!
No comments:
Post a Comment