Tag: Halloween

Final Fiive

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For those who have visited in October’s past you know what’s left. Things that mean something to me and fit with the season.

  1. The Ghost and Mr. Chicken is a delightful blend of humor and lighthearted chills, starring Don Knotts in one of his most beloved roles. His portrayal of the nervous, determined Luther Heggs brings heart and endless laughs. With its quirky characters, charmingly spooky atmosphere, and memorable one-liners (“Attaboy, Luther!”), this classic delivers pure family-friendly fun. An endearing, laugh-out-loud mystery that’s still a joy for fans of feel-good ghost stories and classic comedy. My Aunt Rose took me to see this when I was 8 in London, Ohio. And it stuck.
  2. Season 4, Episode 1 of X-Files. A great, chilling look into small town life and secrets. Chilling score. One of my favorite episodes of the series and it’s why “Wonderful! Wonderful” is on my Halloween playlist.
  3. Young Frankenstien. Young Frankenstein is a comedic masterpiece, blending Mel Brooks’ wit with a loving homage to classic horror. Gene Wilder shines as the passionate Dr. Frankenstein, delivering iconic lines with perfect timing. With stunning black-and-white cinematography, memorable performances, and unforgettable scenes, it’s a brilliant, affectionate parody that remains a timeless gem in comedy and horror. With the death of Terri Garr earlier this week we are left with only Mr. Brooks and Gene Hackman as living cast members.
  4. Halloween. Because of course. John Carpenter’s Halloween is a horror classic, pioneering the slasher genre with masterful suspense and a chilling simplicity. Michael Myers’ relentless presence, paired with Carpenter’s iconic score, creates an unforgettable sense of dread. Jamie Lee Curtis shines in her debut, making this atmospheric thriller a groundbreaking, timeless staple in horror cinema, although imho it does NOT stand up well to the passage of time.
  5. It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. ALSO from 1966. It was GREAT being 8. a timeless Halloween treasure, capturing the charm, innocence, and humor of the Peanuts gang. With its endearing characters, especially Linus with his hopeful belief in the Great Pumpkin, it embodies the spirit of childhood wonder and seasonal nostalgia. Vince Guaraldi’s playful jazz score adds warmth, making this delightful special a comforting, beloved classic that continues to bring joy to generations every autumn.

Hope you’ve had a happy and safe Halloween. But not TOO safe. And not to worry. No more C-GPT reviews until it gets about two iterations better.

Penultimate list

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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.

Three posts the next two days

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a few things I’ve collected over the year ….. and the reposting of some oldies for the holiday.

Count Dracula: Undead Bloodsucker or Anti-Jihad Hero?

A nice look back.

Some awesome memories from 2022

a piece from The Before Times: Trick of Treat!?

2018 was a BUSY year!:

and a metal cover of Tubular Bells

. How To Punish Undeserving Trick-Or-Treaters And Reward The Deserving Ones

Why Halloween Is America’s Most Neighborhood-Nurturing Holiday

Squirrel Wearing a ‘Scream’ Mask

Spooky Halloween Facts

How Monster Stories Can Be Good For Our Souls


This Early Slasher Flick Paved The Way For ‘Halloween’ And Is Creepy As Heck  


 Here’s The Only Completely Correct Ranking Of Halloween Candy

The Best ‘Scary’ Movies for Wusses.

Have a safe, happy one.

Fifth set … one (or two) to go … 10/27

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Gonna have to push it a bit down the wire as Tuesday and Thursday are “scheduled.)

What’s worse than watching Shane Falco play football? Watching Michael J Fox play basketball.

Teen Wolf lighthearted fun but ultimately feels dated. The humor is hit-or-miss, and the werewolf transformation is more goofy than thrilling. Michael J. Fox’s charm helps, the plot is predictable, and the overall execution lacks bite compared to other werewolf films. How many more times will C-GPT use this?
Underworld. Intriguing premise. More Kate Beckinsale. Sets up a long running franchise. While the visuals and action sequences stand out, the plot is convoluted, and the characters lack depth. It’s entertaining, but not particularly memorable.
House of Frankenstein classic Universal monster fun, bringing together Dracula, the Wolf Man, and Frankenstein’s Monster in an ambitious crossover. Boris Karloff shines as the mad scientist, and the atmosphere is wonderfully eerie. Carradine, Lon Chaney Jr., J Carrol Naish, and Dr. Marcus Welby’s housekeeper and the gypsy dancer! A must-watch for fans of vintage monster mayhem.
The Howling. Everyone’s favorite 80’s mom, Dee Wallace. And damned little else. Good transitions and they try to spice it up with some sex but it just doesn’t get it done.
House of Dracula. the story feels rushed and lacks depth. While the concept is intriguing, the execution is uneven, and the film fails to capture the magic of earlier Universal classics. It’s watchable but ultimately underwhelming. Glen Strang as the Monster!
Spirits of the Dead visually stunning anthology that adapts Edgar Allan Poe’s tales with style. Directors Fellini, Vadim, and Malle bring unique flair to each segment, and the atmosphere is hauntingly surreal. A captivating blend of horror and artistry that stands out. Brigitte Bardot. Jane Fonda (looking stunning but uncomfortable with her brother Peter as a love interest.)
The Shining just keeps growing on me. A masterclass in psychological horror. Jack Nicholson’s iconic performance and the film’s eerie atmosphere create an unforgettable sense of dread. With stunning visuals and haunting sound design, it remains one of the most chilling and influential horror films of all time.
With apologies The Mist (the SWEDISH version) was next on the list but I’ve been unable to FIND it. Maybe next year.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is a groundbreaking masterpiece of expressionist cinema. Its twisted, surreal visuals and eerie atmosphere revolutionized horror, influencing generations of filmmakers. A haunting tale of madness, with iconic sets and a chilling twist, it remains a timeless classic. Not to mention the BBG from Casablanca, Conrad Veidt, is Cesar the Somnambulist.
The Innocents is a hauntingly atmospheric ghost story, masterfully blending psychological horror with gothic elegance. Deborah Kerr’s brilliant performance and the film’s eerie cinematography create an unsettling, ambiguous narrative that lingers long after viewing. A timeless subtle classic.
and finally Suspiria is visually stunning horror masterpiece, drenched in vivid colors and eerie atmosphere. Dario Argento’s direction, combined with Goblin’s haunting score, creates an immersive and nightmarish experience. A surreal, terrifying journey that stands as a landmark in horror cinema.

Two more groups of ten left. Gonna be a busy final week! And we wouldn’t want it any other way.

Halloween third ten – 10/20

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The Monster Squad fails to strike the right balance between horror and comedy, too juvenile to be scary and too disjointed to be funny. Outdated humor and weak character development make it a lackluster attempt at a monster mash-up

Werewolf by Night has moments of style and atmosphere but lacks the bite needed to make it memorable. The pacing drags, and while the visuals are intriguing, the storyline feels predictable, leaving a lukewarm impression overall. It’s watchable but doesn’t howl with greatness. Nice Sin City style. Another Marvel cast-off. MAde both the unwatched AND the fan list, though just barely.

Wolfen offers a unique take on the werewolf genre, blending horror with social commentary. However, its pacing feels uneven, and the story drags at times. While the atmosphere is eerie and engaging, the film lacks a strong punch, leaving it more average than memorable. And for the LIFE of me I’ll never understand how Albert Finney EVER got cast as a romantic (?) lead.

Van Helsing delivers thrilling action with Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale leading a dynamic cast. Their chemistry and charisma bring energy to the screen, while the film’s stylish visuals and inventive monster battles (harpy combat in the second scene is awe-inspiring) make it an entertaining ride through the classic horror landscape with a LOT of tropes nicely tucked away inside.

Thriller’s iconic beats, unforgettable melody, and Michael Jackson’s electrifying vocals and choreography create a timeless masterpiece that transcends genres. The blend of pop, rock, and funk, paired with the haunting atmosphere, makes it an essential listen. Its groundbreaking music video set a new standard for visual storytelling in music and it’s iconic sound belongs on EVERY Halloween playlist.

Eyes Without a Face hauntingly beautiful, blending gothic horror with poetic visuals. Its chilling atmosphere and stunning cinematography elevate this eerie tale into a classic. Georges Franju’s direction masterfully balances the macabre and the melancholic, creating a film that lingers long after it ends. First movie on this years horror list that made both MY list and the fans.

A two-fer. Alien and Aliens are masterpieces of sci-fi horror and action. Ridley Scott’s Alien delivers claustrophobic tension and atmospheric dread, while James Cameron’s Aliens amps up the adrenaline with relentless action and intense character dynamics. Sigourney Weaver’s iconic performance as Ripley grounds both films, making them unforgettable classics that revolutionized their genres. But they don’t REALLY belong in the horror genre so bye-bye next year.

The Lodger, third of the four versions, this one with the underrated Laird Creger and the lovely Merle Oberon. has its atmospheric moments but struggles to maintain tension. The plot unfolds at a sluggish pace, with predictable twists and characters that feel underdeveloped. While it has some stylistic flair, the film ultimately lacks the impact needed to leave a lasting impression.

Two more entries … or maybe three. Finally up to the “good” stuff.

Third ten ….. end of the first half …. 10/16

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We’ll start with the werewolf flix again.

Wolf Waxwork was the first of these that were on both my list and the fanbase. This was second. blends psychological tension with classic werewolf thrills, elevated by Jack Nicholson’s captivating performance. The film’s mix of horror and drama, combined with its dark humor, makes it a refreshing take on the genre that still stands out today
Trick ‘r Treat masterfully intertwines multiple Halloween tales with dark humor and chilling twists. Its clever storytelling and memorable characters make it a standout in the horror anthology genre, celebrating the spooky season with style.
Wolf Blood. 1924 Considered by many to be the FIRST werewolf movie. It has an interesting concept but lacks the bite it needs to truly stand out. The pacing is slow, and the narrative feels dated, though its historical significance is notable
I Was a Teenage Werewolf a cult classic that perfectly captures the eerie charm of 1950s horror. With a captivating performance by Michael Landon, it’s a nostalgic blend of thrills and teen angst
Werewolves Within another previously unseen. a quirky mix of comedy and horror but struggles to find a consistent tone. While entertaining in parts, it doesn’t quite deliver a memorable experience. DOES include Milana Vayntrub however!
Back to the “regular” list.
Cannibal Apocalypse has its moments of gritty tension and action but lacks the bite to fully stand out. It’s more of a curiosity than a must-see horror experience. First time. Doesn’t need to be a second.
Shaun of the Dead brilliantly blends comedy and horror, delivering laugh-out-loud moments alongside genuine scares. With clever writing, sharp satire, and a cast led by Simon Pegg at their best, it’s a zombie film that redefines the genre while keeping its heart firmly in place. Likely to have earned a “permanent” spot.
Burial Ground Typical European offering. delivers on gore and shock value but lacks substance in plot and character development. While the practical effects are suitably gruesome, the dialogue and acting often feel stiff and awkward. It’s a cult classic for some, but overall, it’s more odd than engaging.
The Conjuring masterfully blends suspense, atmosphere, and classic horror elements, delivering a chilling experience that lingers long after the credits roll. With strong performances and expertly crafted scares, it stands as a modern supernatural thriller that both frightens and captivates in equal measure. A must-watch and a strong start to a strong franchise.
The Whip and the Body Another typical Europen period piece. Suffers from a sluggish pace and lackluster performances, failing to deliver the tension and chills its premise promises. Despite the gothic atmosphere and visuals, the film’s plot feels underdeveloped, and its scares lack impact, making it a disappointing entry in horror cinema. But hey: Christoper Lee, Dahlia Lavi and some whipping scenes.

Halloween second ten – 10/12

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let’s lead off with the Werewolf features:

Dog Soldiers has solid potential but is held back by clunky dialogue, weak character development, and effects that struggle to deliver convincing thrills.
The Boy Who Cried Werewolf (2010). Mistake. I MEANT to watch the 1973 version. THIS version falls flat with predictable plot twists, cheesy dialogue, and lackluster special effects, making it more cringe than creature feature. Remind me not to do werewolf movies again – this was a new one. Guessing I’ve seen most of what’s watchable.
The Midnight Hour. Another new one. A fun blast of the 80’s cast stumbles with its mix of horror and camp, failing to deliver real scares or laughs. It’s more dated cheese than Halloween classic.
Speaking of dated cheese, have you figured out I’m using chatgpt to speed up these snippets?
The Beast Must Die (1974) Third movie by that title offers an intriguing premise and a fun ‘whodunit’ twist, but its pacing drags and the effects leave much to be desired.
Ginger Snaps Great concept. Well acted. but ultimately uneven and suffers from pacing issues.
Now on to our regular features.
The House with Laughing Windows. Darned near impossible to find. Meager Giallo effort. chilling atmosphere and unsettling moments but more confusing than frightening or weird.
My other “experiment” this year was with including sci-fi on the list. Kinda done with that.
Predator is an action-packed classic that masterfully blends sci-fi and suspense. With intense pacing, memorable characters, and a terrifying villain, it’s a must-watch for action fans.
Murder Party quirky humor and a unique premise, but its low-budget feel and uneven pacing keep it from being a truly engaging horror-comedy. Read that before? This director IS developing though. He’s worth watching. previously unseen
Lisa and the Devil Telly Savalas in the early sucker days pre-Kojak. Typical Italian horror. visually striking with surreal elements, but its confusing plot and slow pacing make it more of an artistic curiosity than a captivating horror film. previously unseen.
Back to the sci-fi beat. The Thing 1982. incredible practical effects and a tense atmosphere, but its slow buildup and bleak tone might not resonate with everyone. Like me.
And I’m thinking I ditch the “unwatched” next year, or at LEAST leave them out of the write-up.

The first ten

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Gonna be a long month and I can’t believe it’s the 8th already. Here’s the drill: 31 horror movies – my favorites, FlickChart user favorites, and up to a dozen I’ve never seen before. Plus the same for “werewolf” movies. Plus another dozen or so that are household faves. This is the first batch – five WW movies and five standard fare.

Dylan Dog: Dead of Night. Superman vs New Orleans. feels like a half-hearted mix of supernatural clichés, cheesy humor, and underwhelming action. Fun in parts, but ultimately forgettable. 5/10 (new)
Cry of the Werewolf delivers classic horror thrills with eerie atmosphere and intriguing twists. A vintage gem for fans of old-school creature features 7/10
Doctor Jekyll and the Werewolf struggles with a disjointed plot and lackluster scares, failing to merge its classic elements into a compelling horror experience 1/10 (new)
Waxwork campy horror flick that entertains with its quirky premise and 80s vibe. Zach Galligan gives it charm, but the uneven pacing and cheesy effects hold it back. 6/10
Scooby-Doo and the Reluctant Werewolf misses the mark with a weak plot and forced humor. Too much Wacky Racers. Not enough charming fun. 1/10 (new)
The House on the Edge of the Park some unsettling moments but lacks depth. Its shock value overshadows any real suspense, making it more uncomfortable than engaging. 7/10 (new)
Ready or Not a wickedly fun thrill ride, blending horror and dark humor with style. Samara Weaving shines in a game of survival that’s clever and unpredictable. Will likely make the list again. 9/10
Just Before Dawn 1981 moments of suspense and eerie atmosphere, but it’s bogged down by a slow pace and predictable plot, lacking the punch of true slasher classics. strong female without being a Mary Sue. 7/10 probably too high. (new)
Beau Is Afraid swings for the fences with its surreal storytelling, but its overindulgent pace and ambiguous plot might leave you more puzzled than entertained 6/10. (new). Doesn’t need to be rewatched.
The Golem First franchise. Masterpiece of silent cinema, blending expressionist visuals with a captivating story. Its exploration of creation and monstrosity still resonates, making it a timeless classic. 9/10.
The House with Laughing Windows should be next but I cannot find it (for free.) Maybe next year.

It’s the MOST Wonderful Time in the World!

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Halloween. Most of you regs know my annual routine. THIS year I’m featuring Werewolf movies. Not excited about it but we’ll see how it goes. There are LOTS of links to “Best” lists.

Kindertrauma is always good for an off-beat nod. Only one of these I haven’t seen is Big Bad Wolf. Not on the list this year either. Wer is good as was Wolf of Snow Hollow. Hard Rock Nighmare didn’t “qualify.

Flickchart did a couple lists. One ranking best “Wolf Man” movies. and in “article” form which only deals with the Universal series.

Enjoy the month. Party responsibly.

Happy Halloween

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This author is about 5-10 years younger than I but they still bring it home.

And so we have our final three. But first, a few diversions

Cobweb. Better than I expected so long as you leave “what happened” up to your imagination.

Fall of the House of Usher. LOTS of Easter eggs. Too much preaching (and my leftists friends agree with me!) but worth the effort. Nice to see Carla Gugino continuing to build her resume.

29th: Ghost and Mr. Chicken. Plot holes abound but STILL a lot of fun.

30th: Halloween. The original. Because.

31st: After we close the door to the last little spook we’ll curl up with a nice beverage and watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” And maybe cry a little. Because tomorrow is November and the rush to the end of the year is upon us.