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31 Days of Horror 4 |OT| The October Movie Marathon
- Thread starter ThirstyFly
- Start date
If anyone's looking for something different and trippy and interesting, check out the 1926 experimental Japanese silent film A Page of Madness. It's on YouTube. It's not exactly a horror film in the strictest sense of the term, but...
...so yeah.
...so yeah.
BattleMonkey
Member
#4 Madhouse (1974)
- Considered one of the lesser Price movies, but I really loved this one. Price elevates anything he's in and Peter Cushing? Yes please. Great atmosphere and almost giallo like feel to an american gothic like setting.
#5 Torso (1973)
- One of the sleazier giallo classics, this movie is very close to American style slasher with frequent random killings. Not as classy as Argento fair, this movie does have it's moments, but your typically laugh worthy giallo reveal.
#6 Stage Fright (2014)
- Take Glee and mix it with a slasher film, and that's what you get here. This actually was kind of neat film and it's had mixed reviews, but I enjoyed it. There is a bunch of homages in the film too to classic horror flicks, and hell who doesn't like Meatloaf? I thought it was a fun and clever film, though kinda wished for some bigger musical numbers instead of the repetition of the few songs, and it also was a bit more happy comedy musical than slasher than I would have preferred.
#7 Don't Go Into the Wood.....Alone! (1981)
- Pretty crappy slasher, supposedly not made very seriously either at the time, but it comes off as just a bad film. A video nasty that doesn't do anything real good. It's essentially the HIlls Have Eyes mixed with Friday the 13th. Ton of random kills, the movie tries to keep you interested by constantly killing off random people who just appear in the film to die. Lot of gore too, though none of it done very well. And the killer.... wow... laughable.
#8 Amsterdamned (1988)
- Went into this expecting a shitty lost slasher, that was my impression of the movie for years but finally seeing it I ended up being surprised. Not that it's a good movie, it's a pretty crappy film, but this was a serious attempt at a thriller and not really a horror slasher film. Seen it reviewed and talked of on various slasher sites/books, so it was always something to see eventually, but instead I got a fairly well produced (there's a long elaborate boat chase) and overly long slasher film about a killer scuba diver in the canals of Amsterdam. Not much of a whodunit either, the killer is just some random person who you are introduced at the end too.
#9 Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
- Nothing new here, just needed something good to cleanse out the crap I watched today, and this is an all time favorite. Not a ton of horror, but who cares, it's just a great film that fits the season to me.
- Considered one of the lesser Price movies, but I really loved this one. Price elevates anything he's in and Peter Cushing? Yes please. Great atmosphere and almost giallo like feel to an american gothic like setting.
#5 Torso (1973)
- One of the sleazier giallo classics, this movie is very close to American style slasher with frequent random killings. Not as classy as Argento fair, this movie does have it's moments, but your typically laugh worthy giallo reveal.
#6 Stage Fright (2014)
- Take Glee and mix it with a slasher film, and that's what you get here. This actually was kind of neat film and it's had mixed reviews, but I enjoyed it. There is a bunch of homages in the film too to classic horror flicks, and hell who doesn't like Meatloaf? I thought it was a fun and clever film, though kinda wished for some bigger musical numbers instead of the repetition of the few songs, and it also was a bit more happy comedy musical than slasher than I would have preferred.
#7 Don't Go Into the Wood.....Alone! (1981)
- Pretty crappy slasher, supposedly not made very seriously either at the time, but it comes off as just a bad film. A video nasty that doesn't do anything real good. It's essentially the HIlls Have Eyes mixed with Friday the 13th. Ton of random kills, the movie tries to keep you interested by constantly killing off random people who just appear in the film to die. Lot of gore too, though none of it done very well. And the killer.... wow... laughable.
#8 Amsterdamned (1988)
- Went into this expecting a shitty lost slasher, that was my impression of the movie for years but finally seeing it I ended up being surprised. Not that it's a good movie, it's a pretty crappy film, but this was a serious attempt at a thriller and not really a horror slasher film. Seen it reviewed and talked of on various slasher sites/books, so it was always something to see eventually, but instead I got a fairly well produced (there's a long elaborate boat chase) and overly long slasher film about a killer scuba diver in the canals of Amsterdam. Not much of a whodunit either, the killer is just some random person who you are introduced at the end too.
#9 Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
- Nothing new here, just needed something good to cleanse out the crap I watched today, and this is an all time favorite. Not a ton of horror, but who cares, it's just a great film that fits the season to me.
J-Roderton
Member
5 of 31
The Sacrament
Cults really freak me out. Anything to do with them really, and most horror movies that involve them scare the shit out of me. This one, however, did not. Has a pretty authentic news story vibe to it but just didn't do it for me. I was expecting a little more out from it i guess.
2/5
The Sacrament
Cults really freak me out. Anything to do with them really, and most horror movies that involve them scare the shit out of me. This one, however, did not. Has a pretty authentic news story vibe to it but just didn't do it for me. I was expecting a little more out from it i guess.
2/5
8BitsAtATime
Member
12. Pans Labyrinth
13. ABCs of Death 2
14. The Hornets Sting and The Hell It's Caused
15. Se7en
16. Zombie
View List 2014
1. House of 1000 Corpses
2. The Rope Maiden (short)
3. Paraphilia (short)
4. Dead Nude Girls
5. Inner Depravity Vol 1 (short)
6. Inner Depravity Vol 2 (short)
7. Geometria (short)
8. Cronos
9. Thirteen Ghosts
10. House of Wax
11. Flower of Flesh and Blood
12. Pans Labyrinth
13. ABCs of Death 2
14. The Hornets Sting and The Hell It's Caused
15. Se7en
16. Zombie
The horror in humanity
13. ABCs of Death 2
Such a waste of time. The Soska sisters segment was the only reason I wanted to watch it but it wasnt worth it
14. The Hornets Sting and The Hell It's Caused
Very Cool and Trippy. One of Dustin Mills better movies.
15. Se7en
what's in the box?
16. Zombie
Fun watching. The eye scene is glorious
View List 2014
1. House of 1000 Corpses
2. The Rope Maiden (short)
3. Paraphilia (short)
4. Dead Nude Girls
5. Inner Depravity Vol 1 (short)
6. Inner Depravity Vol 2 (short)
7. Geometria (short)
8. Cronos
9. Thirteen Ghosts
10. House of Wax
11. Flower of Flesh and Blood
12. Pans Labyrinth
13. ABCs of Death 2
14. The Hornets Sting and The Hell It's Caused
15. Se7en
16. Zombie
#1 The Conjuring
#2 Insidious
#3 Insidious: Chapter 2
#4 Sinister
--
#5 The Awakening
Nothing quite like a good ghost story to give you chills. Unfortunately, my expectations for what this movie was going to be was way off the mark. Light on scares, this ended up being almost more of a character drama than a movie about ghosts. The twist
I always find to be particular lazy and seemed out of place and unnecessary here. Such a shame too, as the 1920's boarding school setting was pitch perfect for a 'The Others' style of scares. I'm sure under the right expectations this movie might be considered quite good but I was considerably underwhelmed. 2.5/5
#2 Insidious
#3 Insidious: Chapter 2
#4 Sinister
--
#5 The Awakening
Nothing quite like a good ghost story to give you chills. Unfortunately, my expectations for what this movie was going to be was way off the mark. Light on scares, this ended up being almost more of a character drama than a movie about ghosts. The twist
Amnesia! The main character grew up in the building the movie takes place and conveniently forgot
ThirstyFly
Member
Post catch up time!
Be sure to catch Zombies vs Strippers and Zombies Zombies Zombies: Strippers vs Zombies
None are masterpieces (obviously), but oh, what a trashy weekend marathon they'd make together. I personally think ZZZ is the best of the 3.
Great, I'm looking forward to your reviews for the Karstein films. I have all the Dracula films lined up too, but I'm not sure if I should do a few at a time every year during the marathon or just binge watch them over the next few months once this is over. I'm dying to watch Dracula A.D. 1972 just because the idea sounds so silly. I'll probably start them in November after I finish off the Karsteins.
I figured Lust was a stinker considering it doesn't seem to have a blu-ray released in any region and the others do... even Captain Kronos. Oh well, I'll still watch it. If it's as... bosomy as the Vampire Lovers I'm sure my shallow side will still find something to hold my interest.
Most of Stuart Gordon's Filmography is solid. Don't forget Dagon which was clearly Capcom's inspiration for Resident Evil 4 and Castle Freak which also stars Jeffrey Combs and Barbara Crampton. And while not a horror movie, Robot Jox is a must see for cheesy 80s boxing robot movie fans.
I can't wait to finally watch Dolls later in the month!
Man, Brain Damage is... I can't even find the words for it. I don't even know if I'd say it's a good movie, but Frank Henenlotter's strangeness is oddly addicting. It's such a bizarre movie you can't help but get pulled in. That BJ scene was... yeah, I don't even know what to say. Have you seen Bad Biology?
If you liked Opera, be sure to check out Argento's Tenebre and Deep Red. They're even better.
Yeah, the sequels took a hit. Looks like the low budgets really crippled them at the start and they never recovered. I do love the end of the 3rd one though. Great song.
Be sure to catch Zombies vs Strippers and Zombies Zombies Zombies: Strippers vs Zombies
None are masterpieces (obviously), but oh, what a trashy weekend marathon they'd make together. I personally think ZZZ is the best of the 3.
Great, I'm looking forward to your reviews for the Karstein films. I have all the Dracula films lined up too, but I'm not sure if I should do a few at a time every year during the marathon or just binge watch them over the next few months once this is over. I'm dying to watch Dracula A.D. 1972 just because the idea sounds so silly. I'll probably start them in November after I finish off the Karsteins.
I figured Lust was a stinker considering it doesn't seem to have a blu-ray released in any region and the others do... even Captain Kronos. Oh well, I'll still watch it. If it's as... bosomy as the Vampire Lovers I'm sure my shallow side will still find something to hold my interest.
Most of Stuart Gordon's Filmography is solid. Don't forget Dagon which was clearly Capcom's inspiration for Resident Evil 4 and Castle Freak which also stars Jeffrey Combs and Barbara Crampton. And while not a horror movie, Robot Jox is a must see for cheesy 80s boxing robot movie fans.
I can't wait to finally watch Dolls later in the month!
Man, Brain Damage is... I can't even find the words for it. I don't even know if I'd say it's a good movie, but Frank Henenlotter's strangeness is oddly addicting. It's such a bizarre movie you can't help but get pulled in. That BJ scene was... yeah, I don't even know what to say. Have you seen Bad Biology?
If you liked Opera, be sure to check out Argento's Tenebre and Deep Red. They're even better.
Yeah, the sequels took a hit. Looks like the low budgets really crippled them at the start and they never recovered. I do love the end of the 3rd one though. Great song.
Yeah, I was similarly disappointed. I was hoping
either the ghost angle would be more straightforward without the cheap amnesia twist, or better yet, that we were never shown conclusive evidence of supernatural occurrences, only strange events that lead the skeptical protagonist to question her convictions. I think the latter could make for a really interesting film, and it's actually where I suspected the movie might be headed for a while.
#03 - Frankenhooker (1990)
Viewed via:
Now here's a movie that I'd always walked past at the video store, and wondered what the audio button on the box, whose battery had long died out, wanted to tell me. I never actually rented the film, and years later would learn exactly what that VHS wanted to say. "Wanna date?"
Having kicked off the month watching two new releases, I felt it was time to go back and watch a film I'd passed on for 24 years: Frankenhooker. I didn't really know what to expect going in, aside from the obvious Frankenstein hooker angle, and it ended up being one of the funniest dark comedies I've ever seen. Everything from the dialog, special fx, humor, plot, to Frankenhooker herself is the perfect mix of cheese and macabre that I can't quite believe how perfectly they nailed it. The ending is also very satisfying and just disturbing enough in that Sleepaway Camp kinda way. I'm kicking myself for not having seen this until now, but it will most definitely be in my Halloween rotation from now on.
Final Viewed List
#01 - Leprechaun Origins (2014)
#02 - Annabelle (2014)
#03 - Frankenhooker (1990)
#04 - Wrestlemaniac (2006)
#05 - Phantoms (1998)
#06 - Clownhouse (1989)
#07 - White Zombie (1932)
#08 - The Possession (2012)
#09 - The Monster Squad (1987)
#10 - Sharknado 2: The Second One (2014)
My list, for now. As I mentioend earlier, going light this year as I'm working on lots of home projects, but I'll do as many as I can. Thanks to the 80's horror movie thread for helping me populate it. Might have to mine it again next year!
Critters 2 (done)
The Gate
The Thing (Carpenter)*
Predator 2
Fright Night
Night of the Comet
Alien*
Chopping Mall
Trick'r Treat*
Cat's Eye
Society
Lake Mungo*
*rewatch
Critters 2 (done)
The Gate
The Thing (Carpenter)*
Predator 2
Fright Night
Night of the Comet
Alien*
Chopping Mall
Trick'r Treat*
Cat's Eye
Society
Lake Mungo*
*rewatch
User 479360
Banned
Goblin was on IFC, so I PVRed it. I'd heard its name before and seen it on TV a lot.
Is it even worth watching?
Is it even worth watching?
CharminUltra
Member
3 days in and I've watched a grand total of 0 scary movies. My plan is to catch up today 
ErinIsADrunk
Member
Just finished watch You're Next for my day 3 flick. I do not care for that movie one bit. There is some decent mayhem, but there are too many characters and not enough setup. Just a bunch of people I don't give two rats about getting killed in gruesome ways. When they finally got to the twists I kind of just shrugged my shoulders. Couple of decent jump scares and like I said some pretty good mayhem and not much else.
I had heard going in that there was some black humour in the film, but outside of the bit at the end I didn't find very much of it. Maybe I didn't find it funny and it went over my head.
Definitely not the high of yesterday where I finally got around to seeing Suspiria for the first time.
Hopefully tomorrow's flick (Ginger Snaps 2) brings more joy and a whole lot more scares.
I had heard going in that there was some black humour in the film, but outside of the bit at the end I didn't find very much of it. Maybe I didn't find it funny and it went over my head.
Definitely not the high of yesterday where I finally got around to seeing Suspiria for the first time.
Hopefully tomorrow's flick (Ginger Snaps 2) brings more joy and a whole lot more scares.
ThirstyFly
Member
Vampyros Lesbos (1971) (Oct 3)
I was introduced to Vampyros Lesbos during last year's 31 Days of Horror, so it was only fitting to save it for the marathon.
Vampyros Lesbos follows your basic vampire seduction plot. A lawyer, Linda Westinghouse (Ewa Strömberg) is haunted by dreams of a beautiful woman whom she is surprised to see one night as an erotic performer at a night club. Her therapist hilariously suggests all she needs is to find a better lover.
Linda is sent on a case to resolve an inheritance issue for the late Count Dracula (yeah, they're really spelling it out for you). Surprise, surprise, the Countess (Soledad Miranda) is none other than the woman from Linda's dreams. The Countess instantly begins to seduce Linda, but is it Linda who is falling prey or is it in fact the Countess who has become fascinated with Linda?
Overall, there's not much too it. Even though it's just under an hour and a half, shockingly very little actually happens. There's a small subplot involving a past victim of the Countess and a bit with Linda's boyfriend doing boyfriend things but other than that there's very little going on beyond the main seduction.
It still managed to draw me in though, and I'm not really sure why. The crazy psychedelic score and slow narrative give it a dreamlike feel and Soledad Miranda's unfortunate passing shorty after the movie was completed adds to its haunting feel.
Admittedly, I'm not too hard to please when it comes to Euro sleaze though. Maybe I'm just an easy sell.
Final Viewed List (2014):
01) White Zombie (1932) (Oct 1)
02) The Vampire Lovers (1970) (Oct 2)
03) Vampyros Lesbos (1971) (Oct 3)
AgentOtaku
Member
Oct.1st - Rocky Horror Picture Show - Not much to say here at it's a yearly tradition. I will say that this movie's pace is fan-freaking-tastic up until
Eddy get's killed
"It's as if we're glued to the floor!"
"...You ARE!"
9/10
Oct. 2nd - You're Next - Surprisingly little fun slasher/thriller that doesn't overstay it's welcome with a lean runtime.
While the twist itself isn't too surprisingly, everything around it was refreshing enough and, I dunno, genuinely bought into the family for what little development they got. The film is most definitely a throw back to days of old and for the most part it works.
Definitely recommend
7.5/10
Future Foundation
Member
Previously Watched List:
1. A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)
2. The Woman in Black
Another decent one. I remember thinking Radcliffe threw me off a little. I know he was supposed to be the young father, but I thought he looked a bit too young - if that makes any sense. Still, I thought he was good. Eel Marsh House was suitably creepy, there was a sense of dread (for me) whenever Arthur had to visit on his own. It's a shame that never really carries past the house, especially since some shit does go down out of ELH.
3/5.
1. A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010)
2. The Woman in Black
Another decent one. I remember thinking Radcliffe threw me off a little. I know he was supposed to be the young father, but I thought he looked a bit too young - if that makes any sense. Still, I thought he was good. Eel Marsh House was suitably creepy, there was a sense of dread (for me) whenever Arthur had to visit on his own. It's a shame that never really carries past the house, especially since some shit does go down out of ELH.
3/5.
TheChewyWaffles
Member
Saw Annabelle - it's ok. Go in with low expectations and you might get out entertained.
ThirstyFly
Member
Not Charley! Wait, which Fright Night?
Original. and yes, Charley.
AgentOtaku
Member
Other than it's amazing poster art, I find the OG Fright Night to be overrated. I know it's blasphemous but I actually preferred the remake :/
walkmetothelake
Banned
Pretty mixed feelings about this one. It was definitely a fun watch but coming from The Conjuring it was pretty lacking in the scares/atmosphere department in my opinion. Definitely closer to Insidious/Insidious Part 2 than The Conjuring. I still have faith that future sequels/spin-offs can be good if they decide to explore some of the couple's other cases and stray away from this subject.
The demon reminded me of the wendigo from Hannibal. (At least it didn't remind me of Darth Maul like the thing from Insidious?)
Patrick Wilson was definitely missed here haha.
---
OP.
1. Halloween (1978)
2. The Battery
3. Halloween II (1981)
the phonebooth scene in Rosemary's Baby had me grasping the sheets. Mia farrow was so great in this.
The one thing I didn't like about silence of the lambs was how after Hannibal
. But understandable that buffalo bill is the bigger focus of the crime plot.
Probably going to watch the Host or something from Korea over the weekend.
The one thing I didn't like about silence of the lambs was how after Hannibal
escaped his whole plotline escaped with him. I just feel like the relationship he and Sterling had deserved a bit more than a phone call at the end where he's in antigua or something
Probably going to watch the Host or something from Korea over the weekend.
#3 - Halloween III: Season of the Witch
I wonder how the Halloween franchise might have evolved had this film been better received. It's not nearly as bad as its reputation, which seems to stem primarily from the initial disappointment with the lack of Michael Myers. It's a pretty interesting experiment that mixes witchcraft and some sci-fi. Overall the film is something of uneven mess and quite dull in spots, but it does have some good horror elements and visuals.
I wonder how the Halloween franchise might have evolved had this film been better received. It's not nearly as bad as its reputation, which seems to stem primarily from the initial disappointment with the lack of Michael Myers. It's a pretty interesting experiment that mixes witchcraft and some sci-fi. Overall the film is something of uneven mess and quite dull in spots, but it does have some good horror elements and visuals.
Count of Monte Sawed-Off
un33dab@dpu$$y
#3 - Halloween III: Season of the Witch
I wonder how the Halloween franchise might have evolved had this film been better received. It's not nearly as bad as its reputation, which seems to stem primarily from the disappointment with the lack of Michael Myers. It's a pretty interesting experiment that mixes witchcraft and some sci-fi. Overall the film is uneven and not very good, but it does have some good horror elements and visuals.
And a kickass Halloween song.
October 3rd Movie #3
Basket Case - low budget horror comedy with an easy to spot twist, but ridiculous charm, and a holy shit ending that almost got me in the feels. It's bizarre, but knowingly so and works it. Acting is, actually; pretty good for a guy running around with a wicker basket.
Best movie so far off my list and would definitely recommend it for those not looking for too many scares but some laughs and a decent enough monster flick.
Bonus - Man New York was a slum central in the 80's, what the hell.
Basket Case - low budget horror comedy with an easy to spot twist, but ridiculous charm, and a holy shit ending that almost got me in the feels. It's bizarre, but knowingly so and works it. Acting is, actually; pretty good for a guy running around with a wicker basket.
Best movie so far off my list and would definitely recommend it for those not looking for too many scares but some laughs and a decent enough monster flick.
Bonus - Man New York was a slum central in the 80's, what the hell.
Last year it felt like it took forever to line up 31 movies for 31DoH. This year I might struggle to keep it under 60.
-Night 1-
I've seen this film given strong recommendations many times recently, so I thought it would be an appropriate entry film for October. For others looking to jump in, I'd suggest avoiding any further impressions whatsoever. The fact that I knew
probably damaged my enjoyment a bit. But it was still a neat little film. I see that the director(s) will be involved with the next V/H/S film, so that's hopefully something to look forward to.
6/10
Not terrible, though not much to recommend either. Decently put together, but too predictable to be in any way scary.
I've got to respect Olivia Cooke for being in so many horror movies this year.
4.5/10
Your standard '90s Stephen King film, but on the dull side. Despite a few interesting performances (for my money, J.T. Walsh is the MVP here), there's nothing remarkable about Needful, and it takes quite a long time to even develop a horror tone.
4.5/10
This was my first time seeing the original Salem's Lot miniseries. I saw the TNT remake back when it came back, and I don't remember being impressed. This on the other hand, was packed with late '70s TV charm. I don't know how its contemporary audience felt when it aired, but it never overstayed its welcome with me, despite vampire fiction being ubiquitous at this point. Still, I wouldn't be surprised if it felt dated to some.
Fun fact: That's the second Stephen King movie in a row to have Bonnie Bedelia
7.2/10
-Night 2-
Standard slasher with little going for it aside from marginally higher-than-usual production values for its type. I watched it for Donal Logue, and because all good people know and love with the classic film Silent Night, Deadly Night II, but there's nothing much of value here, camp or otherwise, and the ending is weak as per usual.
3.4/10
Premium channels have been showing a lot of Cronenberg films over the past month, so this was an easy DVR choice. Scanners is not quite the film I was expecting. It's rougher around the edges, lacks depth, and has much weaker acting than I was expecting from its leads (with the exception of Michael Ironside). But it also has solid early '80s effects and some classic Cronenberg goodness. I find it hard not to compare it in some ways to Firestarter, but with Scanners being on the shorter end of that comparison.
6.3/10
[Rewatch]
Seeing Grindhouse in the theater was one of my greatest ever cinema experiences. It may have been a fairly small audience, but they got those movies. Of the two constituent parts, I'd have to place Planet Terror as my favorite, and it's clear why. This is a film that understands how to leverage reverential style into comedy like few others. Pitch perfect for everything it's aiming for. Robert Rodriguez was on fire with this and the original Sin City. It's a shame that nothing of real quality has followed so far. A solid closer for the end of October the 2nd.
8.5/10
Now to dip into night 3's lineup.
-Night 1-
I've seen this film given strong recommendations many times recently, so I thought it would be an appropriate entry film for October. For others looking to jump in, I'd suggest avoiding any further impressions whatsoever. The fact that I knew
there was a big twist in the very nature of the film
6/10
Not terrible, though not much to recommend either. Decently put together, but too predictable to be in any way scary.
I've got to respect Olivia Cooke for being in so many horror movies this year.
4.5/10
Your standard '90s Stephen King film, but on the dull side. Despite a few interesting performances (for my money, J.T. Walsh is the MVP here), there's nothing remarkable about Needful, and it takes quite a long time to even develop a horror tone.
4.5/10
This was my first time seeing the original Salem's Lot miniseries. I saw the TNT remake back when it came back, and I don't remember being impressed. This on the other hand, was packed with late '70s TV charm. I don't know how its contemporary audience felt when it aired, but it never overstayed its welcome with me, despite vampire fiction being ubiquitous at this point. Still, I wouldn't be surprised if it felt dated to some.
Fun fact: That's the second Stephen King movie in a row to have Bonnie Bedelia
7.2/10
-Night 2-
Standard slasher with little going for it aside from marginally higher-than-usual production values for its type. I watched it for Donal Logue, and because all good people know and love with the classic film Silent Night, Deadly Night II, but there's nothing much of value here, camp or otherwise, and the ending is weak as per usual.
3.4/10
Premium channels have been showing a lot of Cronenberg films over the past month, so this was an easy DVR choice. Scanners is not quite the film I was expecting. It's rougher around the edges, lacks depth, and has much weaker acting than I was expecting from its leads (with the exception of Michael Ironside). But it also has solid early '80s effects and some classic Cronenberg goodness. I find it hard not to compare it in some ways to Firestarter, but with Scanners being on the shorter end of that comparison.
6.3/10
[Rewatch]
Seeing Grindhouse in the theater was one of my greatest ever cinema experiences. It may have been a fairly small audience, but they got those movies. Of the two constituent parts, I'd have to place Planet Terror as my favorite, and it's clear why. This is a film that understands how to leverage reverential style into comedy like few others. Pitch perfect for everything it's aiming for. Robert Rodriguez was on fire with this and the original Sin City. It's a shame that nothing of real quality has followed so far. A solid closer for the end of October the 2nd.
8.5/10
Now to dip into night 3's lineup.
#3 Night of the Creeps (Fred Dekker, 1986)
"what is this, a homicide or a bad b-movie?"
over-caffeinatedly crashed together, so many concepts indebted to so many great horror filmmakers—Cronenberg and Corman are lead among them and are referenced in the movie—slammed together and pitched like a sitcom, not far at all from Raimi tone (who is also perhaps referenced). Knowingly quite funny and with several just abnormal/beautiful/overly audacious shots like the final one. the difference from other films owing so much to bigger artists is that Dekker has a fair batting average in pulling off shots and scenes with a similar amount of aplomb to influences like Romero.
#1 White Zombie
#2 Strange Circus
"what is this, a homicide or a bad b-movie?"
over-caffeinatedly crashed together, so many concepts indebted to so many great horror filmmakers—Cronenberg and Corman are lead among them and are referenced in the movie—slammed together and pitched like a sitcom, not far at all from Raimi tone (who is also perhaps referenced). Knowingly quite funny and with several just abnormal/beautiful/overly audacious shots like the final one. the difference from other films owing so much to bigger artists is that Dekker has a fair batting average in pulling off shots and scenes with a similar amount of aplomb to influences like Romero.
#1 White Zombie
#2 Strange Circus
I chose Night of the Creeps tonight because of how much I like this movie and Tom Atkins in it.#3 - Halloween III: Season of the Witch
I wonder how the Halloween franchise might have evolved had this film been better received. It's not nearly as bad as its reputation, which seems to stem primarily from the disappointment with the lack of Michael Myers. It's a pretty interesting experiment that mixes witchcraft and some sci-fi. Overall the film is uneven and not very good, but it does have some good horror elements and visuals.
#7 - Night of the Demon
To finish off my Tourneur kick, I watched this excellent film brought down a peg or three by executive meddling. I did my best to ignore the giant goofy looking demon that was revealed at the very beginning of the film, because save for that major flaw, it's a fantastic movie that only really makes sense if you don't see the demon - as it is, it's difficult to sympathize with the skeptical protagonist because you know he's wrong the entire time. I wish there were some sort of director's cut (well, it would have to be unofficial since he's dead) that removed those scenes and made the deaths more ambiguous, but the only alternate cut is the original US release, which keeps the demon and does away with scenes that are relevant to the story. Disappointing, but I'm still very glad I watched it.
#8 - Sleepaway Camp II: Unhappy Campers
Not as much fun as the first one, but it's still got plenty of that campy charm. This one is a lot more self-aware and satirical than the original, but they make it work. A worthy sequel, I'd say. I'll be watching 3 at some point this month, but that's where I'll stop because I've heard nothing good about any of them beyond that. Goodnight, campers!
To finish off my Tourneur kick, I watched this excellent film brought down a peg or three by executive meddling. I did my best to ignore the giant goofy looking demon that was revealed at the very beginning of the film, because save for that major flaw, it's a fantastic movie that only really makes sense if you don't see the demon - as it is, it's difficult to sympathize with the skeptical protagonist because you know he's wrong the entire time. I wish there were some sort of director's cut (well, it would have to be unofficial since he's dead) that removed those scenes and made the deaths more ambiguous, but the only alternate cut is the original US release, which keeps the demon and does away with scenes that are relevant to the story. Disappointing, but I'm still very glad I watched it.
#8 - Sleepaway Camp II: Unhappy Campers
Not as much fun as the first one, but it's still got plenty of that campy charm. This one is a lot more self-aware and satirical than the original, but they make it work. A worthy sequel, I'd say. I'll be watching 3 at some point this month, but that's where I'll stop because I've heard nothing good about any of them beyond that. Goodnight, campers!
zero shift
Banned
Not to impressed. I have a strong feeling that if this film didn't pioneer the $20 movie price it would be much more obscure. The acting and the effects were really bad. It was unique I'll give it that.
I wonder how there could be a sequel as
both of the brothers die at the end?
2) Fright Night (original)
I'd heard nothing but good things about this, and in the end while much of it was justified I ended up disappointed. Let's get the source of it out of the way: I have a hard time with movies where the protagonists are as dumb as a sack of potatoes. Charley leads Fright Night, and proceeds to do every possible thing wrong: try to convince parents and cops vampires are real; spy in super obvious, easy to get caught ways; try to hide from a vampire behind a very thin bush at short range; hide actual evidence of said vampire for fuck don't know why; split up from his only partner in a basement when they know there are TWO vampires down there. Jesus the list goes on and I wanted him dead so hard by the end of the movie I could barely stand it.
Other than a slightly excessive dose of 80's cheese (his annoying friend was a bit much), there is also much to praise here. Generally good pacing, an excellent score from Terminator composer Brad Fidel (which I'm still humming) and surprisingly great practical creature effects. But in a film with excellent special effects, one towered over them all: Chis Sarandon's charisma. The man just oozed confidence and wicked charm from every pore, totally owning the screen every second he was on it. It's the first vampire film I've seen where a vampire seduces/hypnotizes a woman who should know better - and you actually believe it. Because he's that goddamn sexy.
The film is much more confident when he's on screen, and often sloppy and frustrating when he's not. In the end it was an enjoyable enough romp, but not the classic I was expecting to discover.
I'd heard nothing but good things about this, and in the end while much of it was justified I ended up disappointed. Let's get the source of it out of the way: I have a hard time with movies where the protagonists are as dumb as a sack of potatoes. Charley leads Fright Night, and proceeds to do every possible thing wrong: try to convince parents and cops vampires are real; spy in super obvious, easy to get caught ways; try to hide from a vampire behind a very thin bush at short range; hide actual evidence of said vampire for fuck don't know why; split up from his only partner in a basement when they know there are TWO vampires down there. Jesus the list goes on and I wanted him dead so hard by the end of the movie I could barely stand it.
Other than a slightly excessive dose of 80's cheese (his annoying friend was a bit much), there is also much to praise here. Generally good pacing, an excellent score from Terminator composer Brad Fidel (which I'm still humming) and surprisingly great practical creature effects. But in a film with excellent special effects, one towered over them all: Chis Sarandon's charisma. The man just oozed confidence and wicked charm from every pore, totally owning the screen every second he was on it. It's the first vampire film I've seen where a vampire seduces/hypnotizes a woman who should know better - and you actually believe it. Because he's that goddamn sexy.
The film is much more confident when he's on screen, and often sloppy and frustrating when he's not. In the end it was an enjoyable enough romp, but not the classic I was expecting to discover.
Conflict NZ
Member
For you people that are watching 5-10 movies a day and ~60 for the month, what job do you have and how can I get one like it?
03. Bloody Birthday [1981]
Three kids born on an eclipse start killing, this isn't a plot giveaway the film is marketed on the fact and even going in blind there's no mystery or tension. Straight up slasher style but nothing special about the kills, a lack of blood and gore and a lame ending. Maybe the use of kids was more shocking in'81.
4/10
Three kids born on an eclipse start killing, this isn't a plot giveaway the film is marketed on the fact and even going in blind there's no mystery or tension. Straight up slasher style but nothing special about the kills, a lack of blood and gore and a lame ending. Maybe the use of kids was more shocking in'81.
4/10
#3 The Night Flier
I've always enjoyed Stephen King movies since I was a kid. The Night Flier is one of my favourites and it feels like an underrated movie. Miguel Ferrer is playing the role of an asshole reporter chasing a vampire who travels by plane. Movie is kinda slow, but I really like the story and Ferrer does a great job playing his character.
Also, thanks ThirstyFly and Rydeen for explaining how the Italian dub movies were shot. It's interesting to see how they worked it out.
Previous:
#2 Zombies (Oct 2)
I've always enjoyed Stephen King movies since I was a kid. The Night Flier is one of my favourites and it feels like an underrated movie. Miguel Ferrer is playing the role of an asshole reporter chasing a vampire who travels by plane. Movie is kinda slow, but I really like the story and Ferrer does a great job playing his character.
Also, thanks ThirstyFly and Rydeen for explaining how the Italian dub movies were shot. It's interesting to see how they worked it out.
Previous:
#2 Zombies (Oct 2)
1. Identity 1/5
2. The Sacrament 2.5/5
3. The Purge 3/5
I read about the premise, and I expected that we'd be taken to the streets for this movie instead of getting a home invasion... It turned out decent enough, even though it's very predictable. Guy playing the leader was pretty good. Bonus point for having creepy masks, even if it's been done to death. Hank from Twin Peaks is in this!
Will also be watching the sequel to this.
2. The Sacrament 2.5/5
3. The Purge 3/5
I read about the premise, and I expected that we'd be taken to the streets for this movie instead of getting a home invasion... It turned out decent enough, even though it's very predictable. Guy playing the leader was pretty good. Bonus point for having creepy masks, even if it's been done to death. Hank from Twin Peaks is in this!
Will also be watching the sequel to this.
Dark Water Oct 02 (Never seen before) 6/10
Thought this was alright, and while you could see almost every story beat a mile off, especially if you've watched a handful of Japanese horror films already, the ending was a little different than I'd expected. The movie really did feel it's length though, or perhaps even longer, and I think I'd have probably rated it lower, if it wasn't for what I thought was a good epilogue which got me interested again.
Splinter Oct 04 (Never seen before) 7/10
Unfortunately I watched this when I was shattered last night, but I thought it was pretty good. The threat was something quite interesting, and original, the effects were good and Shea Whigham being in it was a pleasant surprise. Actually, I'd say the whole cast was really good. I really fucking hated any of the shakey cam scenes though.
The Last Wizard
Member
Maybe you guys can help me identify this horror movie.
So the movie is a black and white horror movie, the main character is a girl and at the end we find out she died before the movie started or at the beginning when her car went of the road(into a body of water iirc). Also during the the last part of the movie there isn't much dialogue just eerie music.
So the movie is a black and white horror movie, the main character is a girl and at the end we find out she died before the movie started or at the beginning when her car went of the road(into a body of water iirc). Also during the the last part of the movie there isn't much dialogue just eerie music.
Unquestionably it's Carnival of Souls.
Escape Goat
Member
Sleepy Hollow is one of my favorite movies and I watch it several times during the year. But it always feels better around Halloween. The movie surely has some problems (exploding windmill being one of them) but its a story made for Tim Burton's style. The atmosphere of the movie is so specific and present in every scene its almost another character in the film. Johnny Depp plays the 'fraid but brave Ichabod wonderfully. I understand why people would dislike it but to me its so very Halloween its part and parcel of the holiday season.
And, it has this wonderful ensemble cast.
And, it has this wonderful ensemble cast.
Couldnt get hold of Exorcist 3:Legion so I had to go with another one instead.
#3 Event Horizon
It's an ok horror. It's not "good" per say, but it's fun.
I want to see the uncut footage. I didn't think it was very good, it had an interesting idea but maybe extra gore would enhance it like the original My Bloody Valentine? Supposedly Paul W.S. Anderson found the uncut footage and is working on a special edition DVD/Blu.
The Last Wizard
Member
Thanks a lot dude,it's been bugging for the longest. Gonna give it a watch this month.
Blue Submarine No. 6
Member
Oct. 3
Revenge massages the finale of Curse a bit by introducing Karl, a Hunchback assistant who saves Frankenstein from the guillotine by substituting the hapless confessional priest from the first film in his stead. Now, as Dr. Stein, Frankenstein continues his experiments in the town of Carlsbruck, where he's made considerable headway, cobbling together a pair of bodies that are a notable improvement on Christopher Lee's grossly scarred monster... Unfortunately for the doctor, things never go quite as planned...
I like this sequel even better than the original, largely because Frankenstein's character is allowed to develop; here he's more than just a formidably intelligent and obsessed aristocrat. Besides his experiments (in which brains are liberally sloshed between open pans and skulls with relish), he has a medical practice for the Society crowd to pay the bills and his "work with the poor" that seems genuinely philanthropic, despite the fact it provides him with some raw materials from time to time. He demonstrates concern and affection for Karl, and he develops a trusting friendship with Dr. Kleve, and Cushing balances these elements with the Doctor's ambitions admirably, creating a believable and nuanced protagonist. Solid acting on the part of the supporting cast and Hammer's traditionally interesting bit part characters help keep the things moving.
View List 2014 - The (mostly) Hammer Horror edition
Revenge massages the finale of Curse a bit by introducing Karl, a Hunchback assistant who saves Frankenstein from the guillotine by substituting the hapless confessional priest from the first film in his stead. Now, as Dr. Stein, Frankenstein continues his experiments in the town of Carlsbruck, where he's made considerable headway, cobbling together a pair of bodies that are a notable improvement on Christopher Lee's grossly scarred monster... Unfortunately for the doctor, things never go quite as planned...
I like this sequel even better than the original, largely because Frankenstein's character is allowed to develop; here he's more than just a formidably intelligent and obsessed aristocrat. Besides his experiments (in which brains are liberally sloshed between open pans and skulls with relish), he has a medical practice for the Society crowd to pay the bills and his "work with the poor" that seems genuinely philanthropic, despite the fact it provides him with some raw materials from time to time. He demonstrates concern and affection for Karl, and he develops a trusting friendship with Dr. Kleve, and Cushing balances these elements with the Doctor's ambitions admirably, creating a believable and nuanced protagonist. Solid acting on the part of the supporting cast and Hammer's traditionally interesting bit part characters help keep the things moving.
View List 2014 - The (mostly) Hammer Horror edition
BroggieDoge
Member
Another pretty big letdown. There was nothing really scary or tense about this. It felt like a CSI halloween special. Maybe if going in I had a better idea of what I was dealing with I wouldn't have had such high expectations. If you are craving a werewolf movie stick to the classics or 2010's Wolfman.
#04 - The Dead
I have seen this movie before but with the arrival of the sequel (see entry #05) I felt it warranted a rewatch of this first installment. The Dead is a very unique movie, mostly based on its location. The movie is set in rural Africa which inmediately sets it apart from most other zombieflicks and makes for some gorgeous cinematography of the scenery. The slow shambling zombies plaguing the country are nearly unstoppable, because what they lack in speed they make up for in toughness. The Dead is a really down to earth approach to the genre with a simple plot and decent characters, and in its simplicity lies it strength; it doesn't do much wrong, which is admirable. 7/10
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#05 - The Dead 2: India
I quite liked The Dead and was excited to hear the Ford Brothers made a sequel. And while it possesses some of the qualities of the first movie, unfortunately it falls short in most areas. I want to forget this as fast as possible. 3/10