Penultimate list

Finally, the good stuff. Kinda.
The Company of Wolves A darkly enchanting reimagining of classic fairy tales, blending horror and fantasy with surreal visuals and rich symbolism. Neil Jordan’s direction brings Angela Carter’s story to life with haunting atmosphere and striking imagery. This mesmerizing tale of transformation, danger, and desire is as unsettling as it is beautiful, leaving a lasting impression.
Silver Bullet A thrilling and heartfelt adaptation of Stephen King’s novella, blending classic werewolf horror with small-town suspense. Corey Haim and Gary Busey bring warmth and humor, adding depth to the scares. The eerie atmosphere and practical effects create a nostalgic experience. It’s a
satisfying entry in 80s horror cinema.
Abbot and Costello Meet Frankenstein: has charm and classic monster nostalgia but feels uneven. While the comedic duo’s timing brings laughs, the horror elements take a backseat, making it more of a spoof than a true monster movie. Enjoyable for fans of the era and feels more like a lighthearted Halloween special than a standout horror-comedy.
I then SKIPPED two. The two highest rated previously unseen movies. One turned out to be a sappy anime about a girl whose step dad was a werewolf (Wolf Children) while the other was an Irish children’s folk tale (Wolfwalkers.) Neither truly “belongs” on the list. Next year I may be returning to ghosts, witches and haunted houses.
WE DID finish the werewolf portion of our viewing with two VERY good offerings.
The Wolf Man 1941. timeless horror classic, capturing the tragedy and terror of its iconic creature. Lon Chaney Jr.’s portrayal brings humanity and depth, while the atmospheric fog-drenched forests and eerie score set an unforgettable mood. Blending suspense, pathos, and supernatural lore, it remains a defining werewolf film and a cornerstone of Universal’s monster legacy.
and An American Werewolf in London masterfully blends horror and humor, with groundbreaking effects and an unforgettable score that enhances the eerie atmosphere. Jenny Agutter delivers a heartfelt performance, grounding the supernatural story with emotion. The memorable soundtrack—perfectly timed with the film’s darker moments—adds depth, making it one of the most iconic werewolf films ever made.
On the other side we finish up with Frankenstein 1931, James Whale’s horror masterpiece, bringing Mary Shelley’s story to life with atmosphere, emotion, and groundbreaking visuals. Boris Karloff’s portrayal of the Monster is hauntingly sympathetic, capturing vulnerability beneath the terror. The film’s stark lighting, eerie sets, and unforgettable scenes make it a cornerstone of classic horror and Universal’s iconic monster legacy.
The Exorcist: a horror landmark, pushing boundaries with its chilling, unforgettable portrayal of demonic possession. William Friedkin’s direction masterfully builds suspense, while Linda Blair’s haunting performance and the eerie score create an intense atmosphere that lingers. With striking visuals and a raw, visceral tone, this film remains one of the most terrifying and influential horror classics ever made.
Bride of Frankenstein a true horror gem, blending gothic atmosphere with surprisingly modern themes of identity and belonging. James Whale’s direction again shines, and Elsa Lanchester’s portrayal of the Bride is iconic, capturing beauty and terror in every scene. With a haunting score and bold visuals, it remains an elegant, powerful sequel and a masterpiece in classic horror cinema.
Jaws a masterclass in suspense, with Steven Spielberg crafting tension from every note of John Williams’ iconic score. The shark’s ominous presence, combined with the relatable seaside setting, creates lasting fear. Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw deliver unforgettable performances, making this thriller an enduring, genre-defining classic in cinematic history. But it is NOT a horror movie and I’m done including it in my list
Psycho: a groundbreaking thriller, with Alfred Hitchcock pushing cinematic boundaries to create unforgettable suspense. Anthony Perkins’ chilling performance as Norman Bates is iconic, and the film’s score by Bernard Herrmann amplifies every tense moment. The unforgettable shower scene and psychological depth make Psycho a timeless masterpiece that redefined horror and influenced generations of filmmakers.
One more post tomorrow about five items which are annual watches (for me) but never seems to make the list.

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