View Full Version : CiCi's Top 50 Horror Films!
Firstly, I'd like to thank MM for coming up with this idea for me to rip off.
But yes, Halloween is now somewhere on the horizon, and I probably won't be on as much as I am currently since I'm going to uni in just over a fortnight now! So before I go, I thought I'd do my own top 50 horror list.
Just don't expect it to be as comprehensive as MMs was, I'm not trying to outdo War & Peace :D
But, I'll start the countdown shortly!
50. Creep (Patrick Brice - 2014)
49. The Editor (Adam Brooks and Matthew Kennedy - 2014)
48. You're Next (Adam Wingard)
47. Saw II (Darren Lynn Bousman - 2005)
46. American Mary (Jennifer and Sylvia Soska - 2012)
45. Santa Sangre (Alejandro Jodorowsky - 1989)
44. Frontier(s) (Xavier Gens - 2007)
43. Inside (Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury - 2007)
42. Opera (Dario Argento - 1987)
41. Calvaire (Fabrice Du Welz - 2004)
40. I Spit on Your Grave - 1978)
39. The Crazies (Breck Eisner - 2010)
38. Ils (David Moreau and Xavier Palud - 2006)
37. The Bird with the Crystal Plumage (Dario Argento - 1970)
Derek Vinyard
09-08-16, 05:58 PM
Will follow this thread for sure! should be interesting
CosmicRunaway
09-08-16, 06:01 PM
I like this idea. It'll be interesting to see what makes your list, and maybe I can find some new films to set the mood for Halloween. :)
cricket
09-08-16, 06:04 PM
No Suspiria!
Glad to see you decided to do it :up:
50. Creep (Patrick Brice - 2014)
https://pmcvariety.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/creep.jpg?w=670&h=377&crop=1
This found footage, low budget flick set in the middle of nowhere resulted in what is certainly up there with the most tense hour of my life, it's a slow burner, and takes a short while to get into, but is more than worth the wait in my opinion.
The film follows a videographer (if that's a word) named Aaron (Patrick Brice, who is also the producer and writer in addition to starring and directing. But this isn't a red flag like it usually is) who is hired to follow an enigmatic man named Josef, who lives in the wilderness, in order to video messages for his unborn son. But Josef's demands slowly become odd, he commands Aaron to film him naked in the bath, is repeatedly caught contradicting himself, and is reluctant for Aaron to leave when night falls, and then a whole lot more.
It's truly shocking, because it's actually quite original and refreshing. Josef is off his rocker, but he's highly perceptive and intelligent, and always manages to re-assure us and Aaron that he's just a little unstable, and lonely, but is desperate to change.
I don't want to give too much else away. But this is anything but a Blair Witch rip off like the vast majority of found footage films, and it isn't a cheap imitation of Psycho like most films with maniacal antagonists are.
49. The Editor (Adam Brooks and Matthew Kennedy - 2014)
http://nerdist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/theeditor1.jpg
This ode to European giallos that have long since died out is a rare breed of film to me. It's a horror-comedy I actually like :lol: it manages to spoof the giallo sub-genre with sardonic wit. The sometimes too obvious misogyny, over the top characters with even more ridiculous acting, and the just unbelievable circumstances are all put under fire here.
But it's stylish, violent, and the only modern giallo I can think of, so as much as it is a spoof, it's all tongue in cheek, and quite a nice love letter to the 70s. It also has Tristan Risk, and Laurence Harvey, both of whom are criminally under exposed. And both of them deliver here, and steal their respective scenes. Especially Ms Risk... who displays literally everything on various occasions!
i was really surprised by creep,great tension builder
and omg when he blocked the door wearing that mask.....
Havent seent the editor
Will follow this thread for sure! should be interesting
Why thank you! Hopefully I can deliver :D
I like this idea. It'll be interesting to see what makes your list, and maybe I can find some new films to set the mood for Halloween. :)
It isn't my idea :sick: I saw MM do it last year and always wanted to do one for myself :D and I'll do my best for ya!
No Suspiria!
http://media.tumblr.com/5df9a488279ba8863a486e395314984d/tumblr_inline_mgpaywHX2a1re0jxj.gif
Are you high?
Exclusive though, it won't be at the top :D
Glad to see you decided to do it :up:
A few people gave me the thumbs up to do one, so I set it up! I'm actually quite excited!
Haven't watched either of those but i think Creep is still on Netflix so i'll try to get to it soon.
cricket
09-08-16, 06:40 PM
I'll get to Creep some day; I've almost watched it several times.
I added The Editor to my watchlist, although the comedic aspect has my wary.
Haven't watched either of those but i think Creep is still on Netflix so i'll try to get to it soon.
There's a few films called Creep out there! So be careful :D
And the next two shall be up in about an hour or so!
There's a few films called Creep out there! So be careful :D
And the next two shall be up in about an hour or so!
haha i know. I own this Creep -
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creep_(2004_film)
Such a bad film but it has one of the best jump scares i've seen.
I'll get to Creep some day; I've almost watched it several times.
I added The Editor to my watchlist, although the comedic aspect has my wary.
I wouldn't worry. I am the biggest hater of horror-comedies. It's the reason I've never really liked any of the Scream films. But I think you might like it, it criticises anything giallo related, like you! :p
I wouldn't worry. I am the biggest hater of horror-comedies. It's the reason I've never really liked any of the Scream films. But I think you might like it, it criticises anything giallo related, like you! :p
There are some pretty good horror-comedies out there, Housebound is a prime example. But I get the hatred for them, because if I'm honest, more times than not I tend to avoid the genre. That's because usually they're neither funny nor contain anything worthy of being labeled a horror anything. It often comes across as the genre for those either too lazy or afraid to make a serious horror film, so they can hide their incompetence behind "comedy". But even after that's all said and done, I wouldn't fully give up on horror-comedies because every now and then I come across a movie that masterfully blends the two genres. But if I absolutely had to choose, I'd prefer to see more serious horror films being made.
im looking forward to this list. Gonna give creep a watch soon.
There are some pretty good horror-comedies out there, Housebound is a prime example. But I get the hatred for them, because if I'm honest, more times than not I tend to avoid the genre. That's because usually they're neither funny nor contain anything worthy of being labeled a horror anything. It often comes across as the genre for those either too lazy or afraid to make a serious horror film, so they can hide their incompetence behind "comedy". But even after that's all said and done, I wouldn't fully give up on horror-comedies because every now and then I come across a movie that masterfully blends the two genres. But if I absolutely had to choose, I'd prefer to see more serious horror films being made.
I couldn't have said it better myself!
I just think the two juxtapose each other too much to work well in unison. But The Editor was different mainly because it wasn't making many jokes, but it was just taking the piss out of horror tropes and poking fun at them in a subtle way. It wasn't forced, and I often feel that the humour often is shoved right into your face in horror-comedies, the tones of the genres are too far a part to make it look fluent or natural. So yeah, if I had the choice, I'd go for a more serious horror every time!
im looking forward to this list. Gonna give creep a watch soon.
Thank you! And it's just over an hour long as well, so it doesn't take too much patience to get into :)
Derek Vinyard
09-08-16, 07:49 PM
I need to make another Top 50 of my favorite horror movie too soon it's been a while
48. You're Next (Adam Wingard - 2012)
https://s02.justpaste.it/files/justpaste/youre-next-sharni-vinson.jpg
This one polarised opinions. And I was divided when I first saw it, but I always seem to keep on coming back to it. It's fun!
The plot was simplistic, the twist was pretty good, if predictable, and some of the actors should thank their lucky stars the Razzies avoided them that year. But once the action let rip, it remained consistently violent and bloody until the end. That, matched with the retro 80s esque soundtrack, and the intriguing direction made it extremely memorable. At its heart, it's also a bit of a love letter to the home invasion films of the 70s and 80s, but it adds to them. It recognises their silly faults and cliches, and demolishes them (quite literally in some cases). The little humour that was inserted didn't feel forced either. I just didn't find it funny really :lol: but that doesn't remove the rest of the many merits this film has.
So yeah, not the greatest horror film in the world, but it doesn't want to be. It's a modern take on the home invasion sub-genre and one hell of a ride!
47. Saw II (Darren Lynn Bousman - 2005)
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/c7/ab/82/c7ab82a6902dd3e8bf8a8865eab19d26.jpg
My favourite film of the franchise, is ironically the one that wasn't intended to be part of the series. It was an attempt to ride off the success of the original Saw, but some producers liked what they saw in the script, and applied it to the series.
It's an intriguing set up. 7 criminals, most of them small time offenders, wake up in an abandoned house and are instructed to find the antidotes before the gas leaking into the house causes them to die horribly. It sounds awful when I summarise it like that, but this is another one that I just find a lot of fun. You end up rooting for a bunch of criminals, most of which end up more likeable than the police force trying to rescue them. The traps are wickedly sadistic here as well. Especially the needle pit (a homage to my fave Argento film :p)
I actually really enjoyed the twists here as well. It's hard to look back at this retrospectively when you consider the utter garbage that followed the first three films. But these plot twists worked here, and they made sense. The character evolution of Amanda was genius, yet was also authentic.
I was actually tempted to put Saw III in this place, but after watching both again, I can't get past some of the piss poor acting in 3. But I'll give that one a little shoutout since I'm talking about its predecessor :D
Wasn't crazy about You're Next but it was alright. Not seen the other.
cricket
09-08-16, 08:28 PM
Those two are both ok for me, nothing special but worth watching.
Im 30 minutes into Howl, I bets its not gonna be on this list.
Sexy Celebrity
09-09-16, 03:23 AM
I thought of Saw II while hosting Survivor VII: MoFo Penitentiary. And I did play Jigsexy.
Saw II is probably my favorite of those movies, as well.
MovieMeditation
09-09-16, 05:54 AM
You're praising me way too much in this thread - like I'm the only one who ever did a top-anything list (mine was superior though) :p
Anyways, this already exceeded my expectations. You got some solid long write-ups here; when you said you wanted to do something less crazy, I didn't think you would have proper write-ups like this - this is great. :up:
I'll be following it closely... And demand it deleted from the forum if it ever gets too good. :D
46. American Mary (Jennifer and Sylvia Soska - 2012)
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xz95rZkRis8/U8qIcZC263I/AAAAAAAAB5o/LVbVdpnlm1M/s1600/ss1-1.png
With 57% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a score of 46 on Metacritic, the jury is split on this one. But I adore it :love:
A critic said that this film was "the most fascinating female orientated horror in years" and that sums this up magnificently. Everything about it is original, especially its restrained stance on the rape-and-revenge sub-genre that actually delivers its feminist stand point with conviction, and evidently heralds women, unlike several other rapey films that muddy the water regarding feminism. But revolving around body modification, social alienation, and superficial prejudices, this film proves that horror is a vast genre that stretches far beyond teenagers being hacked away by serial killers.
And then there's Katharine Isabelle. One of my favourite actresses! To me, this is a career high performance for her (including Ginger Snaps) and she immerses herself entirely in the layered character that was tailor made for her by Jen and Sylvia, who also wrote the script. This film is worth watching for her alone, and she made it a lot easier to forgive the errors that the film did contain.
45. Santa Sangre (Alejandro Jodorowsky - 1989)
http://www.brutalashell.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/santa-sangre-1.png
Like American Mary, this is another one that is unlike pretty much anything else horror has to offer. It's about a vast spectrum of things, and I'd be on for hours going through it all. It's a bit of an epic, really!
At its centre though, it's a love story between a carnival performer and a deaf mute girl named Alma who he pines for throughout his youth and early adulthood. It's bittersweet, intelligent, innovative, and unforgettable. This applies to all aspects of the film as well, from the direction to the acting. A must watch!
Again, haven't seen either. I was like Santa Sangre is a horror film? Until i realized i was thinking of Sans Soleil :laugh:. As i said, i'll watch American Mary the next time i'm in the mood for a horror if i can.
Again, haven't seen either. I was like Santa Sangre is a horror film? Until i realized i was thinking of Sans Soleil :laugh:. As i said, i'll watch American Mary the next time i'm in the mood for a horror if i can.
:lol:
And I'd highly recommend doing so! Mary is on Netflix if I remember rightly :)
American Mary is meh, Santa Sangre is cool though.
American Mary is meh, Santa Sangre is cool though.
B-b-b-but Katharine Isabelle and the Soska sisters :(:(:(
It does have plot issues, though :sick:
And Santa Sangre is cool! :love: I should have just said that :lol:
44. Frontier(s) (Xavier Gens - 2007)
http://horrorsandscaryshits.blox.pl/resource/frontieres2.jpg
I actually first saw this in the euro horror HOF, but I can't remember who nominated it now. Anyway, I'd like to thank them again because I really liked this.
This new wave French film follows a bunch of criminals in a France that is on the brink of destruction and revolt after a far right-wing president is elected, causing the Parisians to flee to the border... where they encounter a bunch of neo-nazis.
It's a typical horror film, filled with violence and gore, but it's not gratuitous. I actually found this film quite frightening at parts, both in the nazi wannabes rhetoric, and the sadistic acts that they inflict. It's degrading, dehumanising, demoralising, but it's one hell of a ride, and and unforgettable experience.
43. Inside (Julien Maury and Alexandre Bustillo - 2007)
http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lgm49tlxbv0/UsIirYslr2I/AAAAAAAAK0s/31wA43zPbSQ/Inside-2007%2525201_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800
Another new wave French horror flick. This one following a heavily pregnant woman being terrorised by a woman intent on taking her unborn baby to raise as her own.
My god, this is extremely violent. But again, it isn't gratuitous. This, mixed with a solid script, gory direction, and terrific acting (especially by Beatrice Dalle as "La Femme"). All of which enhances the horror of the whole situation. Anyway, is it any wonder I'm gay when she convinces us women like that are on our streets? :p
Again, like with American Mary, this is proof that female orientated horror doesn't have to revolve around teenage women exposing their boobs at the sight of a male, and that creativity and original concepts are still thriving across the world.
I also wouldn't advise the pregnant, or women planning on having children, to watch even a second of this :D
inside has been on my watchlist for a while now.
whats creepy is that things like that have happened several times
inside has been on my watchlist for a while now.
whats creepy is that things like that have happened several times
Exactly! Now, I don't have a vagina, but if someone came at me whilst heavily pregnant, I'd be absolutely terrified to my core... Because how are you meant to defend yourself in such a vulnerable state? That must be one of the most terrifying things for a woman wanting or expecting to have children to think of/experience :sick:
Exactly! Now, I don't have a vagina, but if someone came at me whilst heavily pregnant, I'd be absolutely terrified to my core... Because how are you meant to defend yourself in such a vulnerable state? That must be one of the most terrifying things for a woman wanting or expecting to have children to think of/experience :sick:
This made me :laugh:
Haven't seen either of those as usual.
yeah i remember one girl being on the oprah show because that had happened-so sickening.
anyways im not push no baby out of my ho-ha so im safe either way :lol:
re93animator
09-09-16, 10:09 PM
45. Santa Sangre (Alejandro Jodorowsky - 1989)
Awesome! Santa Sangre is amazing. I've appreciated Jodorowsky's 'LSD' saturated imagination in everything I've seen from him, but SS is easily my favorite.
You're otherwise mainly posting stuff I haven't seen so far, but a couple have caught my interest. Looking forward to seeing the rest.
cricket
09-09-16, 10:12 PM
American Mary, Frontiers, and Inside were all on my top 100 horror list, with Inside being a pretty strong favorite.
I've had Santa Sangre on my watchlist even though I'm not a fan of the director.
Awesome! Santa Sangre is amazing. I've appreciated Jodorowsky's 'LSD' saturated imagination in everything I've seen from him, but SS is easily my favorite.
You're otherwise mainly posting stuff I haven't seen so far, but a couple have caught my interest. Looking forward to seeing the rest.
Thanks very much! I didn't know much about the director before I saw it, but he seems like a rather peculiar being to say the least :lol:
American Mary, Frontiers, and Inside were all on my top 100 horror list, with Inside being a pretty strong favorite.
I've had Santa Sangre on my watchlist even though I'm not a fan of the director.
I'd definitely recommend SS!
And finally another American Mary fan, I never thought I'd live to see the day! :lol:
jiraffejustin
09-09-16, 10:29 PM
Just about all of these movies are on my watchlist. I have, however, seen You're Next. It was a pleasant surprise for me, and I enjoyed it a great deal. I may have seen Saw II, but I can't be sure which Saw movies I have or haven't seen. This list is interesting and unique so far. I am digging it.
Just about all of these movies are on my watchlist. I have, however, seen You're Next. It was a pleasant surprise for me, and I enjoyed it a great deal. I may have seen Saw II, but I can't be sure which Saw movies I have or haven't seen. This list is interesting and unique so far. I am digging it.
I'm flattered, JJ! Thank you! :)
Derek Vinyard
09-10-16, 02:23 AM
À L'intérieur did nothing at all to me (I though it was stupid for the mos part)... but Frontières was awesome and I give you rep anyway keep em coming CiCi !!
Horroist
09-10-16, 10:21 AM
Loved Inside & liked a lot Creep, The Editor, Saw II & Frontier(s) and thought American Mary was definitely an interesting & decent watch while I hated You're Next but anyway, I don't think I'll put them in my Top 50 Horror films of all time. May be Id' rank after 150 or 200.
Haven't seen Santa Sangre yet :o
MovieMeditation
09-10-16, 11:52 AM
anyways im not push no baby out of my ho-ha so im safe either way :lol:
http://67.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ly88miQzwR1rnnqsgo1_250.gif
MovieMeditation
09-10-16, 12:28 PM
Finally got the time to properly read and write my way through your list...
The only Creep I've seen, is Sexy, but uh, out of movies it's the 2004 movie of the same name. I remember it being a bit strange and weird but kinda scary. Not in a hurry to rewatch it though. But this one, from 2014, seems interesting and I have it on my watchlist already. I think I might like it.
The Editor I haven't heard off, but it looks rather awesome... added to watchlist!
Didn't like You're Next too much but I see the appeal. I remember the clichés to feel more straight up clichéd than a homage or reference to them. The soundtrack became repetative to me but it was alright. I liked one scene a lot - the end kill. ;)
I like the whole Saw franchise... that is, 1-6. Yep, still like it last time I checked. BUT YES, it really loses steam and gets muddled and amaturishly written as it goes along. But what keeps it together is Jigsaw and his story and the overal story spread across the franchise. I like Saw as a horror, but I love it as a crime thriller and drama. Of course, not the best at that, but the light that is present is pretty fascinating. The second film is definitely fun and decent written.
That was page 1. I'm on phone, so I'll just post this and get on with the next films! :D
Edit: PAGE TWO!!!!
American Mary seemed talked about quite bit in the deepest corners of horror fanatics. Maybe I should give it a try soon. I like Kathrine Isabell - at least what I saw of her in Ginger Snaps was great.
Not seen Santa Sangre. Awesome original and subjective pick. Never heard of it and it sounds very different and interesting...
Frontier(s) has been on my watchlist for ages now. I think it's time soon.
Inside is my favorite of the French New Wave Horror that I've seen so far. Brutal, bad-ass, tragic, terrifying and disturbing. It had the best blend of all the elements making up a lot of those French new wave horrors coming out and it was endlessly fascinating and gripping. Might be a favorite in the future. But with only one watch I'm still not sure yet. Only that I really liked it on that first watch. :up:
Looks good so far, Callum, nice variation, good picks and good write-ups. Keep going and I'll keep reading. ;)
You know Med, I keep meaning to watch the 2004 Creep. I've only ever used the London tube once, but I didn't like it at all and found it a bit creepy and unsettling. I reckon I'd like it!
I agree with American Mary, there was so, so much hype about it a few years ago amongst dedicated horror fans. I think like me, they just saw it as something completely new and refreshing, topped with their darling Katharine Isabelle, who is (in my opinion) the definitive modern day scream queen.
Cant' believe you've never heard of Santa Sangre, though! :eek: it's a fantastic film! I would have placed it higher, but it's quite light on the horror aspect in parts. As a film in general though, it's utterly brilliant!
Inside isn't my favourite new wave film, you'll find out what it is eventually though :p
And thank you, I'll upload the next few picks immediately!
Not Jodorowsky's best though!
42. Opera (Dario Argento - 1987)
https://daveandhiscriticisms.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/betty-needles.png?w=545
I don't think anyone is surprised Argento made it on this :lol:
But this film, largely considered to be his final well made film, is splendid! Following an aspiring opera singer (Cristina Marsillach, who Argento once called the most difficult actress he's ever worked with) the plot revolves around her cast members each being brutally murdered whilst she is forced to watch the events.
It's typical Argento. It's stylised, gorgeous, but never lets up on the violence. Matched with a terrific Goblin soundtrack that contributed massively to the atmospheric, yet oddly erotic tone that the film tried to set up. It's a film that feels sexual, but never gratuitously. The acting is actually not too bad, and neither is the dubbing, some things that would occasionally hamper an Argento film. The kills are as creative as you'd expect from him, but the odds are often equal between killer and victim, and this is why I don't believe Argento is a misogynist, he gives his women a fighting chance, and often develops them to be physically and intellectually equal, if not superior, to their male counterparts. Opera is no exception to this.
The plot would even inspire the aforementioned The Editor hugely!
41. Calvaire (Fabrice Du Welz - 2004)
http://horrornews.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/calvaire_5.jpg
This Belgian, sort of prelude to the new wave of French extremist horror is actually quite light on gore. But it's disturbing as hell. For beginners, we're introduced to a scene of bestiality early on in the film, and it develops from there.
I can't really say much else except that it's one of the most unsettling experiences of my life. The actors playing the deranged villagers fully embody the perverted and twisted natures of their roles and convey their sinister qualities with ease and professionalism. This is one of those that you don't need to watch again, because you won't forget it in a hurry :lol:
Not Jodorowsky's best though!
I haven't seen any of his other stuff yet! :sick:
Oh, I need to see Opera. Actually, I need to see more Argento in general. Only seen five of his. Pathetic Swan! I really want to see Tenebre too, which I've heard is his most sexual film.
Oh, I need to see Opera. Actually, I need to see more Argento in general. Only seen five of his. Pathetic Swan! I really want to see Tenebre too, which I've heard is his most sexual film.
I've only seen a bit of Tenebre, and I didn't like it at all actually. That being said, I only watched about 20 minutes :lol:
I'd certainly recommend Opera though!
The acting is actually not too bad, and neither is the dubbing, some things that would occasionally hamper an Argento film.
TAKE IT BACK! THE BAD DUBBING ONLY ADDS TO THE UNIQUE ITALIAN HORROR EXPERIENCE!
TAKE IT BACK! THE BAD DUBBING ONLY ADDS TO THE UNIQUE ITALIAN HORROR EXPERIENCE!
If it helps, whoever dubbed Daria Nicolodi in it clearly picked up English as a fifth language :lol:
I also don't like to hear that it's "typical" Argento. Typical is never good and it's never good for an artist to be too repetitive. I just watched A Lizard in a Woman's Skin, and it felt unique in Fulci's catalogue and is now my fave of his. Beautiful acid giallo! Alas, every Fulci I've seen has felt different and unique from the last, and that's why I love him.
Sorry, I don't mean to rain on your parade! I am loving the list so far, you gay man you!
I meant more so in the style of it. Bright colours, leather gloved killers, Golbin soundtrack etc.
Should have elaborated there, really :lol:
Sorry, I don't mean to rain on your parade! I am loving the list so far, you gay man you!
Why thank you, and I know, who would ever want to pray away the gay when I'm here! :p
I meant more so in the style of it. Bright colours, leather gloved killers, Golbin soundtrack etc.
Should have elaborated there, really :lol:
So you mean "typical" in the sense just that it features Argento's trademarks? Hopefully it's still unique though, and if so I can get behind that. I love Argento's trademarks.
Okay CiCi, I promise not to be a prick anymore. Nothing but praise here on forward!
So you mean "typical" in the sense just that it features Argento's trademarks? Hopefully it's still unique though, and if so I can get behind that. I love Argento's trademarks.
That's the one! His trademarks, I'll remember that!
Not seen either again. Not seen anything by Argento yet actually. Even though i've seen barely anything this is still good for recs.
Not seen either again. Not seen anything by Argento yet actually. Even though i've seen barely anything this is still good for recs.
Watch Suspiria or you have not lived.
Okay CiCi, I promise not to be a prick anymore. Nothing but praise here on forward!
You can call a spade a spade around me, Swan, it can be our thing! :lol:
But don't worry about it! I endured far, far worse in Survivor :lol:
MovieMeditation
09-10-16, 03:27 PM
I also don't like to hear that it's "typical" Argento. Typical is never good and it's never good for an artist to be too repetitive. I just watched A Lizard in a Woman's Skin, and it felt unique in Fulci's catalogue and is now my fave of his. Beautiful acid giallo! Alas, every Fulci I've seen has felt different and unique from the last, and that's why I love him.
Fulci? Oh yeah, that's the poor man's-....
Kidding, kidding. :D
Not seen any of the last few. Need to see more Argento. Didn't like what I saw of Tenebre either, CiCi - also watched only 20 minutes too though :laugh:
Fulci? Oh yeah, that's the poor man's-....
Even if you are joking the fact that anyone would conjure up such a ridiculous sentiment as that really irks me! :p
Why didn't you guys like Tenebre?
Why didn't you guys like Tenebre?
For me, it was too silly, and too over the top. It just felt cheap.
Sounds like a masterpiece!
jiraffejustin
09-10-16, 03:52 PM
Another one I've seen!!!!!! Opera is dope, but it's been a while since I've seen it. I need to go back and watch it and follow it up with another viewing of Tenebre, which I also liked. "Typical" Argento is better than most other things in this world. ;)
"Typical" Argento is better than most other things in this world. ;)
Stop contradicting me, bish!
cricket
09-10-16, 03:55 PM
Calvaire was a pretty decent flick, and I already have Opera on my watchlist.
MovieMeditation
09-10-16, 03:55 PM
Why didn't you guys like Tenebre?
Wasn't feeling the vibe of it. It felt amateurish - but not the auteurish amateurish advantage and appeal that Argento and Fulci films usually have. It didn't click with me, but we'll see with a future proper watch...
Calvaire was a pretty decent flick, and I already have Opera on my watchlist.
I think cricket just wanted to be the 69th post in this thread.
jiraffejustin
09-10-16, 04:00 PM
Stop contradicting me, bish!
I wouldn't even call a contradiction. I just don't use the word "typical" the same way you do.
MovieMeditation
09-10-16, 04:00 PM
Calvaire was a pretty decent flick, and I already have Opera on my watchlist.
Your profile pic gets me every time, cricket.
I was sitting here and suddenly I hear these *knock knock* sounds and I'm like "who's there?", "Dick" it says, and I'm like "Dick who?"... and then I realize it's just my boner knocking on the bottom of my desk.
Just one of those days, man.
40. I Spit on Your Grave (Meir Zarchi - 1978)
http://wickedhorror.thunderroadinc.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/I-Spit-bruised-Jennifer.jpg
"Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" is the message of Meir Zarchi's pivotal rape-and-revenge flick. Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel proclaimed this as the "worst film ever made, without a shred of artistic distinction" and to put it bluntly, Siskel was a bit of a kiss arse, and Ebert was inconsistent (he hailed The Last House on the Left which has the slightest of differences from this).
That aside, this film depicts rape in its true form, to silence films like Gone With the Wind and even Straw Dogs that almost glossed over sexual violence. To deliver its message, it therefore contains the longest rape scene in cinematic history at around 42 minutes. It's absolutely brutal, but Jennifer's (Camille Keaton) revenge is even more violent.
In all honesty, it would probably be quite forgettable, even campy, if it weren't for the lead actress Camille Keaton. She takes the role seriously, and outshines her attackers in every scene, and she manages to maintain our support for her no matter how psychotic or deranged she becomes.
You'd think this was just an excuse for boobs and violence at the end of the day, but Zarchi also manages to make it pretty obvious that he employs an anti-violence message throughout. Something most exploitation films can't be bothered to do :lol:
39. The Crazies (Breck Eisner - 2010)
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NXSelkv6BsE/TTx6l26BqkI/AAAAAAAADm0/Lu4wLbR1xSM/s1600/the_crazies08.jpg
I'll admit it now, I haven't seen the original by George Romero!
Nevertheless, for a remake, this is pretty exceptional. I found this film genuinely terrifying, the scene with the man wandering down the hospital ward with a pitchfork had my heart rate through the roof. That's why this film works, it manages to implement an overwhelming sense of tension and dread in a large amount of sequences.
The fact that the villains aren't mindless fiends, but are actually rational, lucid, whilst still being incredibly psychotic made them pretty deliciously wicked antagonists, who you'd dread to actually encounter. Obviously, a lot of this is due to the original film and its ideas, but it was well executed overall, especially the bleak direction that created an atmospheric, depressing ambiance from the get go. Brilliant!
cricket
09-10-16, 08:12 PM
Another two that I'm a fan of.
I first saw I Spit on Your Grave as a 7yo boy who was supposed to be asleep in the back seat of his daddy's car at the drive-in.
The Crazies is fantastic, especially for a remake. Maybe that's the trick, don't redo a beloved classic, but rather pick something that can actually be done better.
Another two that I'm a fan of.
I first saw I Spit on Your Grave as a 7yo boy who was supposed to be asleep in the back seat of his daddy's car at the drive-in.
The Crazies is fantastic, especially for a remake. Maybe that's the trick, don't redo a beloved classic, but rather pick something that can actually be done better.
Cricket :eek: I first saw it when I was around 15 and I was traumatised :lol:
I can't really comment on the original, but they did the same for The Hills Have Eyes and the remake was quite a bit better than the original, for me anyway!
Another two that I'm a fan of.
I first saw I Spit on Your Grave as a 7yo boy who was supposed to be asleep in the back seat of his daddy's car at the drive-in.
Your parents took you to see that?? :eek::eek: even if you were supposed to be asleep.. :lol:
Watched I Spit On Your Grave last year. Pretty brutal. Haven't seen either of The Crazies yet, i was already planning on watching the remake as it is on Netflix.
The crazies is the only zombie movie ive ever liked
cricket
09-10-16, 09:12 PM
I can't really comment on the original, but they did the same for The Hills Have Eyes and the remake was quite a bit better than the original, for me anyway!
Love The Hills remake!
jiraffejustin
09-11-16, 01:22 AM
I Spit on Your Grave is a hard film to sit through, but in the end it feels worth it. The remake, on the other hand, is a turd.
I enjoyed The Crazies when I saw it around the time it was released on dvd, but I don't remember much about it. I'd like to see it again, and I'd like to see the original too.
MovieMeditation
09-11-16, 06:34 AM
Haven't seen I Spit on Your Grave but obviously know about its reputation. Gotta see it some time for sure...
The Crazies was on my own horror list, as you might remember. I pretty much loved exactly the things you did. I recently tried to rewatch it but didn't quite click with it at that viewing, which is a shame. I hope to give it a proper watch soon and hopefully still dig it.
38. Ils (Them) (David Moreau and Xavier Pauld - 2006)
https://media.outnow.ch/Movies/Bilder/2006/Ils/movie.ws/03.jpg
The French film that would heavily inspire The Strangers is similar, but superior, in every way for me.
It's a quick thriller, but it delivers. I nearly had several nervous breakdowns watching this whilst waiting for, quite literally, them. But the reason this happened was due to its preference to build and maintain suspense over gore, which it contains very little of. We only get glimpses of the attackers, who swiftly glide in and out of the shadows of a desolate house that seems over sized for just a couple to live in. That, mixed with the sounds they deliberately make to taunt them and us just ramps up the tension even further!
It is light on plot, but the characters are still interesting enough and I wasn't really expecting the reveal at the end, either!
37. The Bird With the Crystal Plumage (Dario Argento - 1970)
https://media.uitdatabank.be/20160429/CC_Het_Gasthuis_Aarschot_birdwiththecrystalplumage.jpg?maxwidth=1200&maxheight=900
Argento's decision to direct his screenplay after other people were messing it up too much is rather strong for a first effort, even though he was nearly sacked during production.
The plot follows an artist who unwillingly gets himself embroiled in a series of murders that target young models. Unlike Ils this actually has a plot, and a rather layered and coherent one at that. The characters are complex, unique, and authentic. It also features some incredibly creative kills and the soundtrack, although not really to my taste, is experimental. It magnificently foreshadows what would follow for Argento.
And yes, Swan, this one has some shocking dubbing in it :p
CosmicRunaway
09-11-16, 02:50 PM
There's already a number of movies on your list I haven't seen, but seem interesting. Usually I have a hard time finding horror movies to watch in October, but apparently I was looking in the wrong places. I'm going to have a busy October this year. :cool:
There's already a number of movies on your list I haven't seen, but seem interesting. Usually I have a hard time finding horror movies to watch in October, but apparently I was looking in the wrong places. I'm going to have a busy October this year. :cool:
https://m.popkey.co/09c565/QLEyJ.gif
Why thank you, I do try :p
If you're looking to be scared sh!tless though, definitely go for Ils!
^^ wrong Queen B ;) :lol:
and i deeeefinity have to see the first one,i absolutely LOVED the strangers! is it difficult to find with subs?
cricket
09-11-16, 02:58 PM
I have those last 2 on my watchlist.
I didn't like The Strangers for what it's worth.
^^ wrong Queen B ;) :lol:
and i deeeefinity have to see the first one,i absolutely LOVED the strangers! is it difficult to find with subs?
I don't know since you're tucked away in Norway! I didn't have too much bother, though! :)
I have those last 2 on my watchlist.
I didn't like The Strangers for what it's worth.
It's a lot better, I didn't like The Strangers either. But it is undeniably influenced by Ils!
Bird with the Crystal Plumage is my second fave Argento. And the dubbing is beautiful. ;)
nevermind,i thought it was LLS then IIS :lol: no wonder i couldnt find it :lol:
Derek Vinyard
09-11-16, 03:11 PM
40. I Spit on Your Grave (Meir Zarchi - 1978)
http://wickedhorror.thunderroadinc.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/I-Spit-bruised-Jennifer.jpg
"Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" is the message of Meir Zarchi's pivotal rape-and-revenge flick. Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel proclaimed this as the "worst film ever made, without a shred of artistic distinction" and to put it bluntly, Siskel was a bit of a kiss arse, and Ebert was inconsistent (he hailed The Last House on the Left which has the slightest of differences from this).
That aside, this film depicts rape in its true form, to silence films like Gone With the Wind and even Straw Dogs that almost glossed over sexual violence. To deliver its message, it therefore contains the longest rape scene in cinematic history at around 42 minutes. It's absolutely brutal, but Jennifer's (Camille Keaton) revenge is even more violent.
In all honesty, it would probably be quite forgettable, even campy, if it weren't for the lead actress Camille Keaton. She takes the role seriously, and outshines her attackers in every scene, and she manages to maintain our support for her no matter how psychotic or deranged she becomes.
You'd think this was just an excuse for boobs and violence at the end of the day, but Zarchi also manages to make it pretty obvious that he employs an anti-violence message throughout. Something most exploitation films can't be bothered to do :lol:
39. The Crazies (Breck Eisner - 2010)
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NXSelkv6BsE/TTx6l26BqkI/AAAAAAAADm0/Lu4wLbR1xSM/s1600/the_crazies08.jpg
I'll admit it now, I haven't seen the original by George Romero!
Nevertheless, for a remake, this is pretty exceptional. I found this film genuinely terrifying, the scene with the man wandering down the hospital ward with a pitchfork had my heart rate through the roof. That's why this film works, it manages to implement an overwhelming sense of tension and dread in a large amount of sequences.
The fact that the villains aren't mindless fiends, but are actually rational, lucid, whilst still being incredibly psychotic made them pretty deliciously wicked antagonists, who you'd dread to actually encounter. Obviously, a lot of this is due to the original film and its ideas, but it was well executed overall, especially the bleak direction that created an atmospheric, depressing ambiance from the get go. Brilliant!
love this set !
38. Ils (Them) (David Moreau and Xavier Pauld - 2006)
https://media.outnow.ch/Movies/Bilder/2006/Ils/movie.ws/03.jpg
The French film that would heavily inspire The Strangers is similar, but superior, in every way.
That's all that really needs to be said about it. :D
nevermind,i thought it was LLS then IIS :lol: no wonder i couldnt find it :lol:
It is difficult to type. Just blame the French, it's their language :p
And so true, Monno M :lol:
Derek Vinyard
09-11-16, 03:24 PM
That's all that really needs to be said about it. :D
it's better yes but both are awesome imo! hope to see Haute Tension on your list CiCi probably my favorite french horror
MovieMeditation
09-11-16, 04:47 PM
I love your taste in horror, CiCi!
I've seen both the original and the remake of Ils. Unfortunately I don't remember much about either. I would like to rewatch the original though. :up:
I love your taste in horror, CiCi!
I've seen both the original and the remake of Ils. Unfortunately I don't remember much about either. I would like to rewatch the original though. :up:
Why thank you! I love your taste in horror, too :kiss: :lol:
And I think you should, just be near a toilet if you do!
36. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (Tobe Hooper - 1974)
http://www.adventuresinpoortaste.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/texas-chainsaw-massacre-1974-knife-1024x576.jpg
The quintessential teen slasher flick. Iconic doesn't begin to cover it, it defined a genre and its influence still determines large parts of the horror scene.
But the film itself is actually not as violent as the title suggests. A lot of it is implied, and it's why the film works so well, it's horrifying, because it lets you imagine the extent of the brutality that it not so subtly hints at.
Marilyn Burns (who shares a birthday with me!) basically screams her way through the film, and she too would determine what was to be expected of scream queens in the future. But the original is often the best, and the late Marilyn Burns is certainly up there amongst them. She literally poured blood, sweat, and tears into the role, and it's conveyed brilliantly. She might have screamed for 80 odd minutes, but she's utterly compelling and manages to construct the fear her character is experiencing to an extent rarely replicated.
That being said, I found some scenes to drag a little bit. Leatherface chases Sally (Marilyn) for about 5 uninterrupted minutes.
Yet despite its faults, it has a raw, gritty tone that shrouds the film in tension and an atmospheric quality that remains peculiar and intriguing 40 years since its creation!
35. The Last House on the Left (Wes Craven - 1972)
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUTy20S2y80/T7K8p_QwnxI/AAAAAAAASfo/wCxPVfyb0yM/s1600/last-house-on-the-left-1972-01.jpg
The film that wasn't released in its entirety in my native Britain until just 2008!
It's certainly something. It's exploitation with genuine emotion implemented into it. Seeing a pair of young 17 year olds being sexually abused with cut aways to one of the girls' parents baking cakes and setting up banners to wish her a happy birthday is simply heartbreaking. Subsequently, I don't think I've ever detested a bunch of characters as much as I have for the rapists in Wes Craven's debut.
The humour in it was not necessary whatsoever, though, preventing this from rising higher to the top! But it is one hell of an experience being exposed to this, be it a first viewing, or a tenth.
Haven't seen 38 or 37. TCM was a lot higher on mine but i suppose it is a pretty typical choice so i'm actually glad to see it lower down than usual. Haven't seen the original but i watched the remake of Last House when it just came out and i liked it at the time, no idea what i'd think of it now. Have you seen The Virgin Spring?
CosmicRunaway
09-11-16, 05:28 PM
I think that's the first set you've posted where I've actually seen both movies haha.
Edit: Nevermind, forgot you posted You're Next and Saw II together.
Great films, including my personal fave horror!
MovieMeditation
09-11-16, 05:29 PM
Spot on about Texas Chainsaw Massacre... I was genuinely surprised at the effectiveness of the subtle approach. And I loved the cinematography for it's gritty and almost grindhouse nature. The atmosphere is truly felt through the warmly saturated pictures. And the soundtrack is creepy as hell. Great pick, had it on my own list as well.
Not seen TLHOTL. :( only the remake, which felt like a microwaved horror film - cheap, easily digestible but boring and with no weight to it. Coincidently, "microwave" was probably the best thing about it.
Not seen TLHOTL. :(
Dude!
Dude!
That's what I was thinking as well, Swan! First, the whole Quarantine thing, and now this!
And I haven't seen The Virgin Spring, Camo! Although I do know that's what it's based off. I keep meaning to watch it, actually :sick:
MovieMeditation
09-11-16, 05:41 PM
Y'all probably gonna hear that a lot in here from me. That I haven't seen the film. Maybe this list will be a good place to draw viewing inspiration from though and I'll catch up on horror the best I can. :)
Edit: also, I second the recomendation on The Virgin Spring!
Should try it when you get the chance. It's not usually seen as one of Bergmans best but i like it a lot. Not sure how it compares to LHOTL since i've only seen the remake and barely remember it or if they should even be compared since they are so different though.
cricket
09-11-16, 05:48 PM
Last House on the Left is top 10 for me, and Chainsaw Massacre is great too.
Derek Vinyard
09-11-16, 06:36 PM
36. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (Tobe Hooper - 1974)
http://www.adventuresinpoortaste.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/texas-chainsaw-massacre-1974-knife-1024x576.jpg
The quintessential teen slasher flick. Iconic doesn't begin to cover it, it defined a genre and its influence still determines large parts of the horror scene.
But the film itself is actually not as violent as the title suggests. A lot of it is implied, and it's why the film works so well, it's horrifying, because it lets you imagine the extent of the brutality that it not so subtly hints at.
Marilyn Burns (who shares a birthday with me!) basically screams her way through the film, and she too would determine what was to be expected of scream queens in the future. But the original is often the best, and the late Marilyn Burns is certainly up there amongst them. She literally poured blood, sweat, and tears into the role, and it's conveyed brilliantly. She might have screamed for 80 odd minutes, but she's utterly compelling and manages to construct the fear her character is experiencing to an extent rarely replicated.
That being said, I found some scenes to drag a little bit. Leatherface chases Sally (Marilyn) for about 5 uninterrupted minutes.
Yet despite its faults, it has a raw, gritty tone that shrouds the film in tension and an atmospheric quality that remains peculiar and intriguing 40 years since its creation!
35. The Last House on the Left (Wes Craven - 1972)
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUTy20S2y80/T7K8p_QwnxI/AAAAAAAASfo/wCxPVfyb0yM/s1600/last-house-on-the-left-1972-01.jpg
The film that wasn't released in its entirety in my native Britain until just 2008!
It's certainly something. It's exploitation with genuine emotion implemented into it. Seeing a pair of young 17 year olds being sexually abused with cut aways to one of the girls' parents baking cakes and setting up banners to wish her a happy birthday is simply heartbreaking. Subsequently, I don't think I've ever detested a bunch of characters as much as I have for the rapists in Wes Craven's debut.
The humour in it was not necessary whatsoever, though, preventing this from rising higher to the top! But it is one hell of an experience being exposed to this, be it a first viewing, or a tenth.
Love this set. Two great horror classic
Should try it when you get the chance. It's not usually seen as one of Bergmans best but i like it a lot. Not sure how it compares to LHOTL since i've only seen the remake and barely remember it or if they should even be compared since they are so different though.
I will! So long as you watch the original Last House :p
I've the seen the version you have as well, and it was silly and restrained. If you're going to make a film about sexual violence, you can't beat around the bush, which they sort of did in the remake.
Last House on the Left is top 10 for me, and Chainsaw Massacre is great too.
I'm not surprised it's your top 10 if you managed to watch I Spit on Your Grave aged 7 unscathed! :p
Love this set. Two great horror classic
I love them as well. These two have great re-watchability! Well, the second half of Last House anyway :lol:
34. Inferno (Dario Argento - 1980)
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Ku6SPRq8054/TOnX0ySTiaI/AAAAAAAAA7I/r-ZdiuzLIQg/s1600/Inferno05.jpg
Argento's indirect sequel to Suspiria is operatic, theatrical, and saturated with luminous colours and even more fluorescent blood. It's certainly a spectacle to behold, its fantastical plot, lavish set pieces, and a flamboyant soundtrack to match it all!
This one often splits opinions, but I honestly think it's one of Argento's finest pieces. Because for me, it maintains everything that is individualistic about Argento's films, but manages to scare and frighten on top, something he does sometimes struggle with I find.
That being said, the dubbing was too bad for me, and they had the nerve to dub Alida Valli as well!
33. Blood and Black Lace (Mario Bava - 1964)
http://static.rogerebert.com/uploads/blog_post/primary_image/demanders/the-politics-of-murdered-and-murderous-women-part-1-mario-bavas-blood-and-black-lace/primary_blood2.jpg
The TCM of Italy, Bava's film would re-invent Italian horror for decades to follow. Yet its influence can certainly be seen elsewhere. This is largely considered to be the first "body count" horror.
Anyway, Bava's giallo set at a modelling agency is lavished with colour, extended death scenes, and a fairly intriguing plot.
But its main appeal is certainly Bava's direction, it's creative, and certainly innovative. The women may indeed be as weak as dish water here, and they were probably cast because of how gorgeous they were. But Bava uses their beauty to enhance how gorgeous this film is. For at its heart, this film is a piece of art, with all of its elements combining to create a nightmarish quality in a memorable piece well ahead of its time.
Again i haven't seen anything from Argento. I've seen Black Sunday from Bava and i liked it quite a bit, will check Blood and Black Lace out at some point.
Again i haven't seen anything from Argento. I've seen Black Sunday from Bava and i liked it quite a bit, will check Blood and Black Lace out at some point.
Oh you're missing out!
I haven't seen that Bava film yet! I keep meaning to check A Bay of Blood by him, actually!
32. Ginger Snaps (John Fawcett - 2000)
http://image.wikifoundry.com/image/3/YG5Rge-o00KdgLJ4DpZxMA474647/GW430
This Canadian werewolf flick surprised me hugely. I'd heard people go on about it before, and it was people here that finally made me put my arse in gear and watch it. And I loved it.
I was expecting it to be a bit of a slasher flick thing in all honesty, but this is about so much more. The plot is layered, with the transformation being a fitting metaphor for puberty. It also is wickedly funny in parts, especially with scenes involving the leading ladies (Katharine Isabelle and Emily Perkins) mother (Mimi Rogers).
But aside from that, the acting from Katharine Isabelle was perfect. Her subtle approach to her transformation and the impact it has was fantastic, and immersed us in her experience. I still think she's better in American Mary though :p
31. Friday the 13th (Sean S. Cunningham - 1980)
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJqGBug1AMo/UpJGHcicBII/AAAAAAAARxg/84T5dsr3s5U/s1600/Friday_The_13th_1.png
This film is more camp than a row of tents, but it's such fun :lol:
This even features Kevin Bacon in one of his early roles! But asides from him... the acting is meh, the direction is meh, and the plot is every shade of meh. But the soundtrack was brilliant, and it does have a raw, gritty tone to it that just makes it compelling, and the 20 minute catfight was utterly fabulous. The final scene at the end is also probably the best, and most effective jump scare I've ever seen.
So for being the gay cousin of horror films, this holds a special place in my homo heart :p
cricket
09-12-16, 09:20 PM
Haven't seen 34 and 33 but I'm a fan of 32 and 31.
Derek Vinyard
09-12-16, 09:29 PM
I hated Ginger Snaps but Friday The 13th is totally awesome.
Ginger Snaps is probably my favourite werewolf film, although i'd like to rewatch In London as it has been years. As well as one of my favourite horrors since 2000. Friday The 13th was alright, not sure if knowing who the killer was ruined it a bit but i suppose most people who watch it for the first time nowadays already know that. Also watched Part II which i liked about the same, and Jason Takes Manhattan which is one of the worst films i've ever seen (sorry SC).
Ginger Snaps is probably my favourite werewolf film, although i'd like to rewatch In London as it has been years. As well as one of my favourite horrors since 2000. Friday The 13th was alright, not sure if knowing who the killer was ruined it a bit but i suppose most people who watch it for the first time nowadays already know that. Also watched Part II which i liked about the same, and Jason Takes Manhattan which is one of the worst films i've ever seen (sorry SC).
I quite liked part 2 as well! Yeah, the franchise really went downhill after part 4 though :lol: like Catwoman/Saw 7 bad
And how can you not like Ginger Snaps Derek :eek:
Derek Vinyard
09-12-16, 09:36 PM
I quite liked part 2 as well! Yeah, the franchise really went downhill after part 4 though :lol: like Catwoman/Saw 7 bad
And how can you not like Ginger Snaps Derek :eek:
All the gothics and emo aspect of the movie was awful for me... I ain't like the storyline as well
They were very emo to be fair :lol:
jiraffejustin
09-12-16, 10:10 PM
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is one of the most brilliant films of the 70s, and probably a top ten horror film for me at this point in my life.
The Last House on the Left has the same type of grit as TCM, but it's not as good. But still very good. Plus there is a scene where a dude gets his dick bitten off, so plus points for that. The 70s were a great time for horror films. We should do a countdown for 70s horror films and then do one for 80s horror films.
I need to see Inferno and The Bird with Crystal Plumage.
Blood and Black Lace grew on me after my first viewing so much that after my most recent viewing, I was convinced that it's a top 5 horror film of the 60s. As you are obviously into giallo, you should see Torso if you haven't already. Don't know why that thought entered my head, but just watch it anyway.
I don't guess I've seen Friday the 13th since I was a child, so I don't really know how well I'd like it now.
I haven't seen Torso yet, so thanks for reminding me, it's been on my watchlist for a little while now.
The 70s were great for horror, I agree, especially for exploitation. They sure don't make those like they did anymore :lol:
And I love the idea of a 70s and 80s horror list!
I just want a proper Horror Countdown done now that more participate and stuff :(
70's weren't just a great time for horror, they were the BEST time for horror!
Derek Vinyard
09-12-16, 10:47 PM
70's weren't just a great time for horror, they were the BEST time for horror!
yeah you're right 70's and 80's both are the best time for horror.
30. Battle Royale (Kinji Fukasaku - 2000)
http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/villains/images/3/38/Mistukotrack.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20130922105309
I've always loved every form of BR, the book, that contrary to claim, I whole heartedly believe is the reason for the existence of The Hunger Games. The only reason this isn't higher is because it straddles the line on being a horror film.
I resonated hugely with a large amount of the characters in the original novel, and I read it at least once a year, as well as reading the manga version at least once a year as well!
But as for the film, it is a perfect and faithful adaptation. It recognises and appreciates that films and novels are entirely different mediums in which to deliver a story, and so adjusts it accordingly. It does make adjustments, but only when they're necessary, and they're often inventive and offer a fresh perspective that the book or manga failed to explore.
This is violent, bleak, depressing, and creates an alternate, dystopian Japan with ease. But the perfect pairing of the central characters Shuya/Boy 15 (that boy from Death Note) and Noriko/Girl 15 (Aki Maeda, whose sister had a cameo in this, and would take a starring role in the dreadful sequel) is uplifting and compelling. But this stretches and applies to the entire 42 bunch of 15 year olds, who are as fleshed out as they can be in 2 hours. There will undoubtedly be someone amongst them who you strongly identify with or associate with someone you know, raising the question it forces its contestants to confront
Could you kill your best friend?
29. Dog Soldiers (Neil Marshall - 2002)
http://images4.static-bluray.com/reviews/2000_4.jpg
The Scottish set flick, filmed in Luxembourg has a raw, low budget feel to it in a similar ilk to 28 Days Later that creates a certain authenticity to it. This is perhaps only enhanced by their wise decision to refrain from using CGI werewolves, preferring animatronics and body suits with stilts, similar to Ginger Snaps!
But the bleak feel the film has to it only makes the violence it showcases all the more brutal, and with a decent set of characters that are layered and well constructed with a set of actors that craft their roles well, it makes for one damn entertaining werewolf picture, and a one that offers a more traditional perspective on the mythical creatures than the fresh interpretation presented by Ginger Snaps!
cricket
09-13-16, 05:49 PM
I'd like to try Battle Royale again as I was a little disappointed the first time.
With you on Dog Soldiers:)
Don't know why but i've never really considered Battle Royale a horror film. It is you're right. I mean it obviously is it is very violent and is one of the most horrific situations imaginable. It's just when i think horror that never comes to mind. Anyway i watched it for the first time properly earlier this year, i enjoyed it but didn't love it or anything. This could be because when i was about 15 it was one of my friend favourite films and he had a habit of showing me all the scenes he loved rather than the full thing so i kinda felt as if i had seen most of it already.
Not seen Dog Soldiers but i love The Descent from the same director so i should soon.
I'd like to try Battle Royale again as I was a little disappointed the first time.
With you on Dog Soldiers:)
Dog Soldiers is brilliant, I like how he went from one film that was basically exclusively male, to an exclusively female cast for The Descent as well :lol:
Don't know why but i've never really considered Battle Royale a horror film. It is you're right. I mean it obviously is it is very violent and is one of the most horrific situations imaginable. It's just when i think horror that never comes to mind. Anyway i watched it for the first time properly earlier this year, i enjoyed it but didn't love it or anything. This could be because when i was about 15 it was one of my friend favourite films and he had a habit of showing me all the scenes he loved rather than the full thing so i kinda felt as if i had seen most of it already.
Not seen Dog Soldiers but i love The Descent from the same director so i should soon.
I often think the reason I love the film so much is because I had read the book beforehand, so I could make sense of things and know reasons behind stuff that perhaps wasn't explained or addressed in the film.
It is more of an action/thriller to be honest, which is why it isn't nearer the top because calling it a horror film is a little bit of a stretch since it's about 4 other genres as well :lol:
cricket
09-13-16, 06:30 PM
I don't think of Battle Royale as horror either, but it's not something I'd argue about.
I didn't know Dog Soldiers and The Descent had the same director. He do anything else good?
I don't think of Battle Royale as horror either, but it's not something I'd argue about.
I didn't know Dog Soldiers and The Descent had the same director. He do anything else good?
I haven't seen any of his other films, but they were the only horror films he seems to have made.
I don't think of Battle Royale as horror either, but it's not something I'd argue about.
I didn't know Dog Soldiers and The Descent had the same director. He do anything else good?
The other films he has directed are Doomsday (2008) and Oblivion (2010). Not seen either so don't have a clue if they are any good. A while ago i remember ATC posted in Movie You're Watching Tonight a recent Horror Anthology film can't remember the name of it, anyway he had directed a segment of it which was pretty much the only reason i wanted to see it.
This was the Anthology film i was talking about - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_of_Halloween
28. Vampyr (Carl Theodor Dreyer - 1932)
http://s3.amazonaws.com/auteurs_production/images/film/vampyr/w1280/vampyr.jpg
It's perplexing to think that people hated this film when it was released. It's one of the most surreal films I have ever seen.
It occupies a haunting, atmospheric quality with every frame to create a sort of hallucinatory experience. The cast consisted almost entirely of people picked off the streets of Paris in cafes and train stations, yet the end result is a film that is as nightmarish as it is captivating. It's unnerving, yet fascinating, with a brilliant ending as well.
It's a shame Mr Dreyer has a breakdown following Europe's negative reaction to the film, though. But at least this has found appreciation and admiration in later years!
27. Possession (Andrzej Żuławski - 1981)
http://diaboliquemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Possession3.png
This violent film that was inspired after the director had gone through a tricky divorce is a different kind of mesmerising. Isabelle Adjani is in acerbic form here as a woman who slowly drifts into psychosis inexplicably.
The narrative is deranged, and obliterates any kind of boundaries. But nevertheless, it's artistic and voyeuristic. And Ms Adjani is utterly terrific and deserved her Palme D'Or at the Cannes film festival that year.
Words can't really describe this film in any way, or do it justice. But it is a must watch!
You'll probably want to avoid any tubes after you see what happens to Adjani in one!
rauldc14
09-13-16, 09:49 PM
I didn't care for Possession too much, but I should see it again someday.
I didn't care for Possession too much, but I should see it again someday.
Isabelle Adjani made this film for me, she creeped the **** out of me :lol:
rauldc14
09-13-16, 09:52 PM
I preferred her in Nosferatu the Vampyr.
I preferred her in Nosferatu the Vampyr.
Well, that may or may not make an appearance, you never know :p
jiraffejustin
09-13-16, 10:06 PM
Vampyr is a film that has been lurking on my watchlist for far too long. I can't imagine a reality in which I don't fall in love with it.
Possession is one of the most powerful horror films I've ever seen. As CiCi mentioned, Isabelle Adjani's performance is top tier. The theme of broken relationships makes that movie very real and harrowing and sad and powerful and brilliant.
Seen neither. Really want to see both.
cricket
09-13-16, 10:30 PM
I haven't seen Vampyr yet, but I absolutely loved Possession!
Right on for liking Possession, a very polarizing film!
Derek Vinyard
09-14-16, 04:58 AM
Possession is awesome! Glad to see it on your list CiCi
MovieMeditation
09-14-16, 07:05 AM
Possession is absolute garbage.
But everything else looks pretty good. :D
Seen neither. Really want to see both.
Both are must sees!
I haven't seen Vampyr yet, but I absolutely loved Possession!
I love Possession, but it's one of those films that I'll doubt I would watch again, either :lol:
Right on for liking Possession, a very polarizing film!
Possession is awesome! Glad to see it on your list CiCi
It's nice to see a lot of love for it, because like you say Swan, it divides opinion quite a bit!
Possession is absolute garbage.
But everything else looks pretty good. :D
https://media.giphy.com/media/BgJumFO4ZuV7a/giphy.gif
Are you thinking of something else? :eek:
MovieMeditation
09-14-16, 06:30 PM
Are you thinking of something else? :eek:
Unfortunately, not... (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1238625#post1238625)
26. The Descent (Neil Marshall - 2006)
http://leogrin.com/CimmerianBlog/wp-content/uploads/2006/08/descent_3.jpg
Marshall's antithesis to the male dominated Dog Soldiers revolves around a bunch of 6 women who explore a undiscovered network of underground tunnels to encounter a race of humanoid dwellers who have fully adapted to their drastic environment.
Marshall manages to balance the tension and gore of the film extremely well, and only implements the violent scenes once enough character development and suspense has been created. The claustrophobic and only partially visible shots make the film feel authentic as well as relatable to the ordeal experienced by the women. Then mise-en-scene is used tremendously. The initial confrontation halfway through the film is not the first time we see or hear the dwellers. As they enter, they can be briefly heard intermittently, and the women's flashlights briefly expose some of them for a few moments. I went back through the film when I read about this, and my heart stopped when I realised it was actually true!
It's truly unforgettable, and the layered and complexity of the narrative only adds to the film's charm. For example, one theory suggests the underground network is symbolic of a womb, and the ordeal is Sarah (the leading character, played by Shauna Macdonald) managing to comes to term with herself, and the loss of her child, which is interesting. Most of the over theories contain a load of spoilers, so I won;t bother mentioning them, but it is worth looking into!
I say it every time I mention this film, but I'll say it again! To any Americans, make you sure you avoid the ending that was cut for you! The original one reflects the overall tone of the film fantastically, and is far more original!
25. Black Christmas (Bob Clark - 1974)
http://popcornhorror.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/vlcsnap-2010-12-15-13h56m28s166.png
The man who would later direct masterpieces like Baby Geniuses 2 found fame with this slasher set in a sorority. Sounds cliched, but that's because this film established those genre tropes!
It is hard to therefore look at retrospectively, but I still managed to enjoy it. It's a whodunnit that is actually interesting and leaves you second guessing who may be responsible for the shockingly threatening phone calls the girls receive, and who begins to off each and every one of them. Its ending is spectacular as well.
Also, Bette Davis was originally offered a role in this, but turned it down!
Unfortunately, not... (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1238625#post1238625)
I literally couldn't disagree more, but each to their own!
That scene with Isabelle Adjani in the subway is one of my favourite scenes in that film, I was the good kind of horrified watching it! I do think that without her though, this film would be a bit of a mess.
Black Christmas is good but not a major favourite of mine. Love The Descent though.
MovieMeditation
09-14-16, 06:46 PM
I'm seriously frustrated and almost mad that so many people dig that scene. I saw people call it "emotional" "powerful" "heartbreaking" and I just f*cking HATE IT HATE IT HATE IT.
I'm logging off the forum and never coming back. I can't take being in the minority and feeling so strong about my opinion that is appearently wrong. Bye.
I'm seriously frustrated and almost mad that so many people dig that scene. I saw people call it "emotional" "powerful" "heartbreaking" and I just f*cking HATE IT HATE IT HATE IT.
I'm logging off the forum and never coming back. I can't take being in the minority and feeling so strong about my opinion that is appearently wrong. Bye.
I never said it was wrong! I just really like that scene.
Gotta watch Possession soon to agree with MM so he doesn't leave us forever :p
MovieMeditation
09-14-16, 06:49 PM
I never said it was wrong! I just really like that scene.
9/10 people love it and I can't even respect it.
I don't know cinema, clearly. I'm a noob. A faker. A stupid person. I'm just gonna cry in a corner for a week or so...
Have you seen The Descent Part II CiCi?
9/10 people love it and I can't even respect it.
I don't know cinema, clearly. I'm a noob. A faker. A stupid person. I'm just gonna cry in a corner for a week or so...
MM, I'll remake it for you and make it beyond terrible so people will agree with you!
I could replace Isabelle Adjani with Megan Fox
Sam Neill with Adam Sandler. It'd be poison!
Have you seen The Descent Part II CiCi?
Oh god, yes. It was 90 minutes of my life I'll never get back.
I dis used to tell myself that I'd never watch it because it shat all over the original ending, but I gave in. It's not terrible I suppose, but the caves are as bright as Blackpool Illuminations in the sequel, and the monsters... it's like Poundland took over the make-up department.
Oh god, yes. It was 90 minutes of my life I'll never get back.
I dis used to tell myself that I'd never watch it because it shat all over the original ending, but I gave in. It's not terrible I suppose, but the caves are as bright as Blackpool Illuminations in the sequel, and the monsters... it's like Poundland took over the make-up department.
Exactly how i felt about it. I actually said all that in my writeup the day after i watched the first one. Was way to brightly lit and the monsters looked ridiculous also we saw way too much of them. They didn't get the feel of the original at all, the monsters were probably my least favourite part of the original i preferred the story and the claustrophobic feeling. And yeah they ruined the ending to the original. It was so absurd that:
Sarah was allowed to go back into the cave and that Juno was still alive after three days even though she'd been injured :rolleyes:
In all honesty though as much as it got wrong i'd say i still mildly enjoyed some parts. As long as i think of it as more of a what if? film than an actual sequel.
I like that what if approach, and I did like parts of it as well! But overall, I think it should have never been attempted because it was obvious they were after a money grab and nothing else :lol:
Yeah, i agree. Odd that Marshall was on as a Producer. Wonder if he had any input. The guy who directed it was an editor on the first one. Pretty sure he did a segment on that anthology film i was talking about as well.
I doubt it. He doesn't like to compromise*, and I doubt he'd have liked them disregarding his ending of the original.
*There was a subplot in Dog Soldiers that he was forced to add that he absolutely hated.
Was just reading the article for it on wiki and if it is accurate it sounds like he was on board and involved. :shrug: Who knows.
Was just reading the article for it on wiki and if it is accurate it sounds like he was on board and involved. :shrug: Who knows.
Odd :lol: but I could see why he would want to make a sequel, it was a success, and it did leave some possibilities open.
jiraffejustin
09-14-16, 07:40 PM
I want to see The Descent again. My last viewing wasn't the most enjoyable, but my first was pretty good. I think the action was good, but I found everything else forgettable. But it's been awhile.
Black Christmas is good, but I don't love it. It's outclassed by a lot of its contemporaries.
#negativity
cricket
09-14-16, 07:42 PM
Love Black Christmas and The Descent!
I want to see The Descent again. My last viewing wasn't the most enjoyable, but my first was pretty good. I think the action was good, but I found everything else forgettable. But it's been awhile.
Black Christmas is good, but I don't love it. It's outclassed by a lot of its contemporaries.
#negativity
I have to admit, when I first watched it, I was bored until the action did kick in. But I loved it after I watched it again so I'd definitely recommend giving it another shot!
Love Black Christmas and The Descent!
Finally someone else who loves Black Christmas :p
Derek Vinyard
09-14-16, 08:05 PM
26. The Descent (Neil Marshall - 2006)
http://leogrin.com/CimmerianBlog/wp-content/uploads/2006/08/descent_3.jpg
Marshall's antithesis to the male dominated Dog Soldiers revolves around a bunch of 6 women who explore a undiscovered network of underground tunnels to encounter a race of humanoid dwellers who have fully adapted to their drastic environment.
Marshall manages to balance the tension and gore of the film extremely well, and only implements the violent scenes once enough character development and suspense has been created. The claustrophobic and only partially visible shots make the film feel authentic as well as relatable to the ordeal experienced by the women. Then mise-en-scene is used tremendously. The initial confrontation halfway through the film is not the first time we see or hear the dwellers. As they enter, they can be briefly heard intermittently, and the women's flashlights briefly expose some of them for a few moments. I went back through the film when I read about this, and my heart stopped when I realised it was actually true!
It's truly unforgettable, and the layered and complexity of the narrative only adds to the film's charm. For example, one theory suggests the underground network is symbolic of a womb, and the ordeal is Sarah (the leading character, played by Shauna Macdonald) managing to comes to term with herself, and the loss of her child, which is interesting. Most of the over theories contain a load of spoilers, so I won;t bother mentioning them, but it is worth looking into!
I say it every time I mention this film, but I'll say it again! To any Americans, make you sure you avoid the ending that was cut for you! The original one reflects the overall tone of the film fantastically, and is far more original!
25. Black Christmas (Bob Clark - 1974)
http://popcornhorror.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/vlcsnap-2010-12-15-13h56m28s166.png
The man who would later direct masterpieces like Baby Geniuses 2 found fame with this slasher set in a sorority. Sounds cliched, but that's because this film established those genre tropes!
It is hard to therefore look at retrospectively, but I still managed to enjoy it. It's a whodunnit that is actually interesting and leaves you second guessing who may be responsible for the shockingly threatening phone calls the girls receive, and who begins to off each and every one of them. Its ending is spectacular as well.
Also, Bette Davis was originally offered a role in this, but turned it down!
Absolutely love this set CiCi this list getting better and better!
I like Black Christmas a lot. I recently rewatched The Descent, too, and man what a fabulous film.
Thank you, Derek!
And I adore The Descent :love:
24. 28 Days Later (Danny Boyle - 2002)
https://vinnieh.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/28-days-later-london.jpg
Seeing one of the world's most iconic cities completely abandoned, desolate, and in such poor condition was eery and a creepily magnificent way to open what would be a magnificent film.
The film is shot as if it were a 0 budget feature, which complements the style and tone of the film well. It's a pessimistic, misanthropic interpretation of a post apocalypse Britain and this only adds to the overall depression of the circumstances.
But the film also approaches a refreshing stance on the concept of zombies, presenting them as alive beings infected with an aggressive form of mutated rabies. However, its originality stretches beyond this by using a plot line that seems all too real to perhaps comment on our own world.
I'm talking about the army recruiting female survivors to groom, and subsequently rape in order to re-populate. I dunno, but presenting the humans as the real antagonists is a peculiar, but by no mean innovative approach, was still noteworthy in itself. But then they give them a somewhat noble purpose for what they're doing to address an imminent issue. I don't think it's asking us to condone rape in any way, but alternatively getting us to question the extent at which we would allow ourselves to sacrifice for a greater good was a thought provoking question the film seemed to raise. on the other hand, I could be talking out my arse.
Asides from that, this is well acted, has monsters that are genuinely frightening with humans even more so. And a cast of compelling and authentic characters just makes the experience even more harrowing and captivating.
But that actress who played the teenage girl was beyond abysmal, though :lol:
23. Carrie (Brian De Palma - 1976)
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UGbANXRloQ/T51eTuQgGLI/AAAAAAAAAkk/8wNvprlDL_k/s1600/42413-carrie_white.jpg
It's not often that a horror film makes an appearance amongst any category at the Oscars, but Carrie received two nominations, for 'Best Actress' and 'Best Supporting Actress' and deservedly so.
Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie steal the show in the adaptation of Stephen King's debut novel under his real name.
But this is a tale of social alienation, religious extremism, and general teenage angst. So it's a peculiar bunch, but the cast of iconic characters brought to life by even just as recognisable actors is utterly brilliant. Then everything gets ramped up for the conclusion of the film that is nothing short of sensational! This is also what the remake lacked, hence why it failed pretty badly!
cricket
09-14-16, 10:16 PM
Completely love both of those as well.
Carrie gave me some nightmares after seeing it in the movies at 5 years old.
It took me two viewings to love 28 Days Later.
Completely love both of those as well.
Carrie gave me some nightmares after seeing it in the movies at 5 years old.
It took me two viewings to love 28 Days Later.
You sure saw a lot of horror films as a child :lol: I can't blame you, though, I nearly had heart failure during the very last scene!
I didn't really like that either when I first saw it, I just couldn't get used to the style of it, but once I did get used to that, I adored it!
Quite like 28 Days, i'm one of the weirdos who prefers 28 Weeks though. And i'm not a fan of Carrie, it is one of my mums favourite films though.
Quite like 28 Days, i'm one of the weirdos who prefers 28 Weeks though. And i'm not a fan of Carrie, it is one of my mums favourite films though.
Same with Mama CiCi, she often says it's her favourite horror film.
And no... Just... No :p
cricket
09-14-16, 10:44 PM
After first viewings, I also preferred 28 Weeks. It was only after seeing it again that I realized the brilliance of 28 Days.
I've only seen both once so maybe it will be the same for me. I found Weeks a lot more entertaining at the time.
Derek Vinyard
09-14-16, 10:48 PM
28 Days Later is fantastic. probably in my Top 150 ever and Carrie is a pretty good horror classic.
Once again right on CiCi
Quite like 28 Days, i'm one of the weirdos who prefers 28 Weeks though. And i'm not a fan of Carrie, it is one of my mums favourite films though.
Yeah wut a weirdo
Once again, thanks for stopping by, Derek!! :)
Weeks is pretty entertaining yeah, but it's such a run of the mill horror. Days is far more creative, and the ending in the manor was absolutely brilliant.
Also, I don't like Jeremy Renner at all, and Rose Byrne looked uninterested the entire time.
However, the opening of Weeks set during the initial outbreak was spectacular!
cricket
09-14-16, 10:52 PM
I've only seen both once so maybe it will be the same for me. I found Weeks a lot more entertaining at the time.
I still think it's entertaining and thought the first was dull, until seeng it again.
cricket
09-14-16, 10:54 PM
The opening of Weeks is the best part for sure, but I also happened to like Renner in it.
I'm having a crisis. Windows 10 is being a tricky bastard and my laptop is probably possessed now. Papa CiCi won't be back until tomorrow either to fix it :( but I'll update like mad tomorrow!
That's too bad. I'm about to watch Dog Soldiers soon btw. If i don't love it then you should expect a call from my lawyer :p
That's too bad. I'm about to watch Dog Soldiers soon btw. If i don't love it then you should expect a call from my lawyer :p
http://67.media.tumblr.com/43920f23ff203faedc230792ca65fb12/tumblr_n7ecdudzDx1t37tydo5_500.gif
I can't go to jail! They'd go all Deliverance on me if I dropped the soap!
22. Rabid (David Cronenberg - 1977)
http://zombiehamster.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Rabid-2-e1424032568353.jpg
This one was recommended to be you lovely lot :p and I did get round to watching this just about a few days before I started this :lol:
Anyway, this Canadian epidemic flick is another unusual, but original approach to the zombie genre that sees the disease spread from a mutated organ in the body of recovering car crash patient, Rose (porn star turned actress Marilyn Chambers) that only allows her to ingest the blood of humans.
It's gritty, but the way the plot develops is intriguing but coherent, and it's probably as frightening as it is because it depicts a realistic way in which such a disease could rapidly spread and eventuate into such widespread chaos.
That being said, I couldn't stop thinking about how Ms Chambers went from porn to getting a role in this :lol:
21. Videodrome (David Cronenberg - 1983)
https://filmfork-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/content/Videodrome%20-%203.jpg
Body horrors have always been disturbing to me, so I shouldn't have really been surprised when I was rendered an absolute wreck upon seeing this! It's body horror amped up to its most extreme, without ever being gratuitous or unnecessary.
It follows James Woods, the head of a Toronto TV station that specialises in extreme forms of entertainment like porn and gratuitous violence. When his station manages to intercept a broadcast of an extreme show depicting acts of torture, he illegally broadcasts it and then it gets every shade of disturbing from there.
The reason I like Videodrome so much is because its characters are just as dark and unnerving as the circumstances they get themselves into. I.e. the sadomasochistic psychiatrist who likes to get freaky when watching extremely gory stuff, and James Woods' character actively defending sharing snuff TV. It's very dark.
But, like a lot of the films in his repertoire, this has an extremely layered and complex plot, and I'm not even sure I've made full sense of it even now :D but nevertheless, his script is brought to life in stylish fashion, completed with a competent cast that creates a film that is really unlike any other.
MovieMeditation
09-16-16, 04:03 PM
LOVE Videodrome. It was on my own list too. Well, love Cronenberg overall...
LOVE Videodrome. It was on my own list too. Well, love Cronenberg overall...
I think everyone should love Cronenberg :lol:
And I keep meaning to go through your list again, I remember loving reading through it, but I can't remember what was on it now!
Yah, love Videodrome too, and it was on my list i think. Only seen one other of his horrors and that was very high on mine so i hope it shows up. So obviously i haven't seen Rabid yet.
MovieMeditation
09-16-16, 04:09 PM
I think everyone should love Cronenberg :lol:
And I keep meaning to go through your list again, I remember loving reading through it, but I can't remember what was on it now!
the read is the good thing, the list is decent I guess, but since I'm not 50+ years old and named mark then my taste is primarily based on the horror I grew up on, while the classics only came later. That's why I feel like my list is very mixed and a little weird. BUT that does make it a little bit more interesting.
I guess it's only good it doesn't look like anybody else's... and the same can be said about yours; it very much reflects your own subjective taste, I like that.
the read is the good thing, the list is decent I guess, but since I'm not 50+ years old and named mark then my taste is primarily based on the horror I grew up on, while the classics only came later. That's why I feel like my list is very mixed and a little weird. BUT that does make it a little bit more interesting.
I guess it's only good it doesn't look like anybody else's... and the same can be said about yours; it very much reflects your own subjective taste, I like that.
I remember being shocked by a couple of yours, like Grave Encounters since not many people seemed to like it (I loved it though, it's scary as ****)
And thank you! :)
Yah, love Videodrome too, and it was on my list i think. Only seen one other of his horrors and that was very high on mine so i hope it shows up. So obviously i haven't seen Rabid yet.
I think I know what other film you're on about :D
And I'd give Rabid a look, it's peculiar, but compelling in its own right! The Soska sisters are directing a sequel I believe!
Think your Horror list was the first time i really took notice of/started to talk to you properly MM. That was a great thread.
I think everyone could use a bit of MM in their lives as well! :p
I think I know what other film you're on about :D
And I'd give Rabid a look, it's peculiar, but compelling in its own right! The Soska sisters are directing a sequel I believe!
Horror is becoming more and more a thing i get back into sporadically in bursts then barely watch it for a while as i get older. Earlier this year i went through like a month when it was all i was really watching, i was bugging Cricket for recs and making this thread for more recs. - http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?t=45571
Then i just went off it and haven't watched that much since. Think it is just that i've not been properly scared by a film since i was about 8, and only really by three films in my life. I still get a lot of enjoyment out of them but i feel in the mood for them less.
Just realized this has nothing to do with what you said haha. I was going to say i wanted to watch all of Cronenbergs Horrors earlier this year but i went out of my horror phase. Will come back soon though and i'll try to work my way through some of these.
Was just looking at that thread and i just wanted to point out this from my top ten horrors since 2000 which would be different now.
09.28 Weeks Later
10.28 Days Later
:D
Good picks, glad to see some early Cronenberg.
MovieMeditation
09-16-16, 05:50 PM
Think your Horror list was the first time i really took notice of/started to talk to you properly MM. That was a great thread.
Probably true. And thank God for that. If we hadn't done so we might have been all over the forum not knowing of our strong duo-dynamic discussion force of nature that we clearly have. :cool:
But thanks man, I appreciate that. That list nearly killed me. Worth it though.
I think I know what other film you're on about :D
And I'd give Rabid a look, it's peculiar, but compelling in its own right! The Soska sisters are directing a sequel I believe!
Wasn't it originally gonna be a remake?
Wasn't it originally gonna be a remake?
It was, but the last I heard it was under the title Rabid 2 before it disappeared altogether off IMDb
y god y
Leave them alone! They're nice ladies!
Yeah I took it back cause I have nothing against them. Actually, I'm glad they changed it to sequel instead of remake, because Rabid is the last movie I want to see remade.
Yeah I took it back cause I have nothing against them. Actually, I'm glad they changed it to sequel instead of remake, because Rabid is the last movie I want to see remade.
I have to admit, I am as well.
Meanwhile, the Suspiria remake has been wiped clean on IMDb! God is real!
Bought Opera!
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/KpCwveF0vcw/maxresdefault.jpg
You won't be able to take your eyes away :p
I'm holding you to it. If it sucks, you'll be the first victim in my first slasher film! If it's great... you'll be the first victim in my first slasher film!
I'm holding you to it. If it sucks, you'll be the first victim in my first slasher film! If it's great... you'll be the first victim in my first slasher film!
*inserts Norma Desmond's "I'm ready for my close up" gif*
20. A Nightmare on Elm Street (Wes Craven - 1984)
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kNs80nqdWH8/maxresdefault.jpg
Craven's big breakthrough came with this film, and it isn't hard to recognise why it has since became one of the most iconic and well known horror films ever made.
It has a ruthlessly sadistic antagonist in the form of Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) that is deliciously wicked and produces some terrifying moments (the woman dripping in blood being dragged across a ceiling left my jaw dropping). The plot is beyond imaginative, and so everything else surrounding it is as well, it's refreshing, and literally ventures into a realm that no other film ever really seemed to do.
And I mean, staying up all night is okay when there's cocktails involved, but doing it permanently to avoid being butchered limb by limb has its own implications, especially after I read that Russian sleep experiments thing on the internet :lol: but even then, I've had bouts of insomnia myself and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. These many layers and different fears that the film plays to is what makes it so daunting and harrowing, in my opinion.
But daring on every perspective, and definitely a film to see before you die. Just don't bother with the long list of sequels/prequels/reboots/remakes/reboots of remakes etc.
19. Phenomena (Dario Argento - 1985)
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VlzO1IbdSk/VMwWa4CQqWI/AAAAAAAAEN0/TwHOifE4Yq0/s1600/phenomena-1985-23.png
The film that sent a teenage Jennifer Connelly to hospital after an ape literally went ape on her during a rehearsal, is actually one of the most imaginative and sinister additions to Argento's filmography.
Following a string of murders at a Swiss boarding school, Argento makes the most of the idyllic and serene Swiss landscape, managing to intertwine its tranquillity with lucid colours and atmospheric score with ease. In addition, Ms Connelly, in one of her earliest roles that even preceded Labyrinth, is actually pretty damn decent alongside Donald Pleasance. It certainly is the most prolific cast Argento managed to secure (James Woods bailed on Inferno, and Vanessa Redgrave bailed on Opera) and he uses this to his full advantage. He even cast his own daughter as the first victim! Except it wasn't Asia :p
cricket
09-16-16, 09:41 PM
Rabid is already on my watchlist and I will add Phenomena. I just have to make sure I don't order Philomena again by mistake.
Thumbs up for Elm Street and Videodrome!
re93animator
09-16-16, 11:31 PM
Really great list so far! I've already commented on Santa Sangre, but Vampyr, Possession, Videodrome, and Black Christmas are also among my genre favorites.
I also like the rep for Argento flicks. It's been too long since I've gone through his stuff, but you've given me renewed incentive.:D
Never heard of that Argento, not seen any of them but i've not even heard of that one haha.
Nightmare On Elm Street is great of couse. Hopefully Nostromo will be here with a great post about how it should've been higher soon :D
Phenomena is great. Elm Street is very good, but I have lost most of the enthusiasm I had for it as a kid, for some weird and unfortunate reason.
Rabid is already on my watchlist and I will add Phenomena. I just have to make sure I don't order Philomena again by mistake.
Thumbs up for Elm Street and Videodrome!
Oh wow :lol: I can totally see how you did that, though, I'd probably do the same thing!
I also forgot to say when I was revealing it, but Phenomena was the main inspiration for The Clock Tower video game franchise. There's big nods to Suspiria and Opera in it as well.
Really great list so far! I've already commented on Santa Sangre, but Vampyr, Possession, Videodrome, and Black Christmas are also among my genre favorites.
I also like the rep for Argento flicks. It's been too long since I've gone through his stuff, but you've given me renewed incentive.:D
I'm glad there's another Vampyr fan! It's genuinely one of my favourite horrors from the 1930s!
And I adore Argento :love: I think he manages to blend European and Western styles brilliantly to put his own individual stamp on horror. There's really no one even close to him for me!
Never heard of that Argento, not seen any of them but i've not even heard of that one haha.
Nightmare On Elm Street is great of couse. Hopefully Nostromo will be here with a great post about how it should've been higher soon :D
I'm actually a bit surprised you've never heard of it since it retrospectively contains his most prolific cast. Although Jennifer Connelly/Donald Pleasance vs Joan Bennett/Alida Valli is a tough one based on fame :lol:
Phenomena is great. Elm Street is very good, but I have lost most of the enthusiasm I had for it as a kid, for some weird and unfortunate reason.
I'm glad to hear you like Phenomena :love:
I sort of feel the same way about Elm Street, I think the sequels ruined the original a bit for me and put me off ever going there again.
18. Nosferatu the Vampyre (Werner Herzog - 1979)
http://www.fangoria.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Nosferatu1.jpg
The woman who can speak nearly every western European language this time turns to German cinema for this spin on tale that was a rip off of Dracula.
But for a remake of a reboot/spin off thing, it's shockingly good. Whereas many Dracula productions fail to implement its plot to full effect, this version does so, and chooses to focus on the vampire's loneliness, making him more of a tragic figure that can draw pity from us.
Additionally, the homages to the original German, 1922 production are fantastic, and although some shots are direct counterparts of the original, it still manages to add to what was lacking in the original by maintaining its ghastly style but expanding on the plot!
17. Audition (Takashi Miike - 1999)
http://nextprojection.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/auditionbanner.jpg
All hail Eihi Shiina for delivering a wickedly sadistic performance that massively contributed to the overall merit and memorability of the film.
And then to Mr Miike, who splashes every frame a deep red like he typically does. But as overblown as he tends to get, you never manage to get used to it. This is disturbing to say the very least.
But with an intriguing plot, needless to say intriguing characters, none of which are exempt from being morally pristine, it is an interesting set up that is executed brilliantly by both the director, and an ensemble of capable actors who quite literally get into their roles (Eihi Shiina did actually throw up into a dish!)
cricket
09-18-16, 05:56 PM
Love Nosferatu but I wasn't crazy about Audition!
CosmicRunaway
09-18-16, 06:26 PM
I wasn't crazy about Audition either. I've been meaning to watchit again for a few years now, but I can never seem to get around to it.
MovieMeditation
09-18-16, 07:35 PM
Elm Street and Nosferatu were both movies on my own list. Great flicks.
Audition I liked but not as much as I hoped. Looking real good still, CiCi!
re93animator
09-18-16, 08:57 PM
Nosferatu is actually my favorite Herzog movie. Herzog's movies usually have that weirdly realistic atmosphere (no surprise he turned to docs), which is extra fascinating when complemented by a supernatural subject.
:( Audition actually exceeded my expectations going in, I thought it was going to be some gratuitous torture porn film, and I just really liked it by the end :lol:
I never knew he went into docs, thanks for telling me reanimator! I'll have to check some of them out!
And thank you once again, MM! :p
I never knew he went into docs
How could you not know this? :p He is one of the most famous documentary makers of all time. Ever heard of Grizzly Man? :p
Nosferatu is amazing, made my top ten. Not seen Audition.
16. The Omen (Richard Donner - 1976)
https://rupertsmithfiction.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/theomen2.jpg
I usually don't like supernatural horror, but there's something about this film that's just so dark and sinister that it manages to be an exception to the rule for me. I knew from the opening scene with the nanny that my mind was going to be fvcked with, and indeed it was!
It's atmospheric, operatic, and hauntingly chilling. The acting, particularly by the possessed, is astounding. Billie Whitelaw was a particular standout for me, and Mia Farrow was a pretty damn good successor in the overall irrelevant remake. The kid who plays the antichrist, Damien, was also creepy and unnerving from the get go, and was unusually consistent for a child actor. It's a shame he never acted again, although he did have a cameo in the remake!
But it's religious horror looked at through an entirely different tangent to the likes of The Exorcist and to compare the two would be like comparing apples and oranges.
15. Dawn of the Dead (George Romero - 1978)
http://www.deepfocusreview.com/reviews/images/dawnofthedead5.jpg
The late seventies really was a golden age for horror, and this film is one of the definitive features from this era. If Night of the Living Dead would forever change the boundaries of horror film, then this later addition to the "Dead" series would change the face of the zombie sub-genre and make it the target of sensationalism for decades on into the new millennium, where the genre continues to dominate every other fiend out there!
Set primarily at an overrun shopping centre, this picture has a grindhouse feel to it. It's low budget, and it feels that way, making everything that occurs on camera feel all the more exploitative and authentic. Yes, painting someone green and passing them off a zombie screams cheap today, but it has a certain charm to it retrospectively.
But it is glorious fun, and the embodiment of iconic. This really was a landmark in the history of both Western and Global horror!
(Shoutout to Zack Snyder's version as well, I would have included him, but you know, he wrecked DC so he can piss off)
How could you not know this? :p He is one of the most famous documentary makers of all time. Ever heard of Grizzly Man? :p
Nosferatu is amazing, made my top ten. Not seen Audition.
I have never heard of Grizzly Man :lol:
I have never heard of Grizzly Man :lol:
Jesus :laugh:. It won the Docs Countdown here. He also made Cave Of Forgotten Dreams, Encounters at the End of the World, Into The Abyss, etc.
Was never that big of a fan of The Omen but i haven't seen it in years. I actually used to prefer the Dawn remake until i rewatched both around last Halloween. The Original Dawn is now my second favourite behind Night, but i still think the remake is very good and it would be my third.
The only one of those I've heard of is "Into the Abyss" and I never knew that was a documentary :lol:
14. The Fly (David Cronenberg - 1986)
http://img.cinemablend.com/cb/2/7/6/0/3/2/276032384aac787b67fac8c3b98ac73f58699b6af72f4a82bf4624b9ca07e086.jpg
It's Weird Science meets Frankenstein on crack cocaine.
Following an eccentric scientist who accidentally transports himself with a common housefly whilst testing his revolutionary technology, this is one of the extremely rare occasions where the remake is a significant improvement from the original.
Firstly, the make-up, it depicted the horrific hybrid transformation from human to fly sensationally. It was horrifying,yet equally terrific, and testament to the ideology that practical effects are quite often the answer when it comes to horror films over the likes of CGI.
Also, that birth scene nearly made me vomit.
But it was brilliantly acted as well, obviously largely due to Jeff Goldblum, but I also really enjoyed Geena Davis, this is the first time I've seen her in anything besides Thelma & Louise and I loved her yet again. The pair contrast one another tremendously, and consequently complement one another's styles and contrasting characters. It's nice to see that the pair got married following this... although it ended in divorce a few years later.
13. The Cabinet of Dr.Caligari (Robert Wiene - 1920)
https://samletchfordfilm.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/cesare-and-janejpg.jpg
Roger Ebert said that everyone remembers this film for its bizarre look, and that's certainly true for me. The peculiar and enigmatic landscapes and settings create an unsettling background that is immediate from the film's opening.
The plot itself is actually quite simplistic and nothing startling, yet the execution of it all creates an eerie environment where everything seems disconnected and out of joint, that is perhaps all too fitting when the ending is revealed!
colejwalker
09-19-16, 07:11 PM
Love how high Dawn is, amazing film and a good list to boot.
Nostromo87
09-20-16, 02:43 AM
20. A Nightmare on Elm Street (Wes Craven - 1984)
Only 19 spots too low. Got the most reps so it won anyway +13
Bangin list CiCi
The Fly was in my top five. That may have been a bit high since i've only seen it once and i had just watched it when i made the list, but yeah i loved it. Caligari was also very good.
The Fly was in my top five. That may have been a bit high since i've only seen it once and i had just watched it when i made the list, but yeah i loved it. Caligari was also very good.
Not too high! Cronenberg's Fly is the most gutwrenching film I've ever seen! A masterpiece.
This is a very good list. The flys great, the omen stands the test of time. Other than the foreign movies I haven't seen, I just couldn't get into the original nightmare on elm street, just doesn't do it for me. Freddy just doesn't turn me on the way he should lol ;)
Not too high! Cronenberg's Fly is the most gutwrenching film I've ever seen! A masterpiece.
Yeah. I kept putting it off because everybody kept talking about how disgusting it is but what affected me much more was how sad and just overall devastating it is. Jeff Goldblum gives one of my favourite performances ever i think. Should watch it again soon.
Yeah. I kept putting it off because everybody kept talking about how disgusting it is but what affected me much more was how sad and just overall devastating it is. Jeff Goldblum gives one of my favourite performances ever i think. Should watch it again soon.
Dude, that's f*cking awesome you say that about Goldblum's performance. It's one of my faves as well. :up:
Optimus
09-20-16, 03:50 AM
A Nightmare On Elm Street, The Omen, And The Fly are all great horror movies.
Horroist
09-20-16, 04:53 AM
13. The Cabinet of Dr.Caligari (Robert Wiene - 1920)
https://samletchfordfilm.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/cesare-and-janejpg.jpg
Roger Ebert said that everyone remembers this film for its bizarre look, and that's certainly true for me. The peculiar and enigmatic landscapes and settings create an unsettling background that is immediate from the film's opening.
The plot itself is actually quite simplistic and nothing startling, yet the execution of it all creates an eerie environment where everything seems disconnected and out of joint, that is perhaps all too fitting when the ending is revealed!
Glad to see that you've added 2 of my most favorite films from Silent era! Loved both Vampyr & Dr. Caligari. Amazing film making & techniques considering the time period.
Have you seen the Swedish masterpiece The Phantom Carriage (1921)?...another gem of a Silent cinema!
I haven't seen that yet, Horrorist! I have heard of it before though, so I'll be sure to check it out! :)
12. It Follows (David Robert Mitchell - 2014)
https://assemble.imgix.net/867/54ee17f6be872.jpg
Far and away, this is the best horror film of the decade for me... and you bastards didn't nominate it at the MoFo Film Awards except for "Most Overrated Film" :sick: :(
However, it's visually gorgeous, establishes an original premise and story that manages to blend nostalgia to the 80s horror flicks that inspired it, with modern times and cinema effortlessly; it does so to such an extent that it's difficult to pin point which era this film takes place in, which is bizarre and perplexing enough on its own. Not to mention that this was all the director's debut.
The score as well :love: like the fluorescent style of the film and the script, it manages to capture a retro feel and perfectly reflect the tone of the scenes it accompanies to complement it excellently. After finishing this, the soundtrack is probably what you'll remember most.
Or Maika Monroe, who's restrained and tentative portrayal of the central protagonist Jay managed to deliver the film's point on the dark side of teenage life and sexuality.
All of these factors then manage to work together to create simply unforgettable scenes, topped with a monster that is genuinely refreshing, but can make you ***** your pants as well!
11. The Exorcist (William Friedkin - 1973)
http://az795576.vo.msecnd.net/bh-uploads/2015/12/scariest-movie-title.jpg
The film responsible for introducing us to the oh so talented Linda Blair...
And exposing the borderline sociopath Friedkin as well.
Little needs to be said about the premise, because even if you haven't seen it, you'll have seen an imitation of it since there are thousands out there.
But the possession theme horror that struggled to find its cast is utterly haunting. When the young, all American girl Linda Blair starts experiencing increasingly bizarre events, the tension quickly begins to increase before erupting into an unhinged dimension that keeps becoming more horrifying than the scene before it.
It even does jump scares masterfully, although I had to look hard to see some of the demonic faces in crowds etc.
It Folllows is great, curious how i'd feel on a rewatch. The Exorcist is my favourite horror and is in my top five films so i'm obviously happy to see it so high.
I don't think It Follows is the best horror of the '10s but it is a very good one.
Why do you call Friedkin a sociopath? I mean, besides believing possessions are a real thing I can't think of any reason, but maybe you're hip to something I don't know. :D
It Folllows is great, curious how i'd feel on a rewatch. The Exorcist is my favourite horror and is in my top five films so i'm obviously happy to see it so high.
I never knew that, Camo!
I haven't re-watched It Follows twice either, curiously enough. Once was enough for me, I think my heart would stop functioning if I had to endure the 7 foot man scene again :lol:
I don't think It Follows is the best horror of the '10s but it is a very good one.
Why do you call Friedkin a sociopath? I mean, besides believing possessions are a real thing I can't think of any reason, but maybe you're hip to something I don't know. :D
Wasn't he a complete bastard to everyone on the set? I can't recall from the top of my head what exactly he did to everyone, but I remember being quite horrified at some of the things he did!
I didn't know that! I'm not surprised, though.
I didn't know that! I'm not surprised, though.
Here we go. According to IMDb anyway:
Friedkin fired a gun near Jason Miller to get an authentic reaction from him.
He slapped William O'Malley
He put Linda Blair and Ellen Burstyn in harnesses, which permanently damaged Ellen's back after he got crew members to yank them.
This might not have been him, but the bedroom was basically refrigerated to get the icy breath effect, whilst Linda Blair had to wear nothing but a nightgown.
MovieMeditation
09-20-16, 06:22 PM
I never knew that, Camo!
I haven't re-watched It Follows twice either, curiously enough. Once was enough for me, I think my heart would stop functioning if I had to endure the 7 foot man scene again :lol:
Easily the deepest most effective scare I've got from a horror film in years.
Some people mentioned that other scenes scared them more, but I guess it depens on what kind of things you find scary. But that tall man, my God. I thought for a split second I was gonna pass out. It sent shock waves through my entire body, great scene. Glad you liked it (/hated it) as much as me. :D
I liked It Follows, saw it in the cinemas which definitely raises the scare value. But first 2/3 was the best. When you found out what "happened" when they reached you was silly and the climax was weak and predictable. I have yet to rewatch it. Dr. Caligari is a great classic. A foundation for horror, twist ending and more. The Fly was on my own list, LOVE IT. The Exorcist was too; I respect it and admire it more than I love it. But it gets better every time. :up:
Easily the deepest most effective scare I've got from a horror film in years.
Some people mentioned that other scenes scared them more, but I guess it depens on what kind of things you find scary. But that tall man, my God. I thought for a split second I was gonna pass out. It sent shock waves through my entire body, great scene. Glad you liked it (/hated it) as much as me. :D
I liked It Follows, saw it in the cinemas which definitely raises the scare value. But first 2/3 was the best. When you found out what "happened" when they reached you was silly and the climax was weak and predictable. I have yet to rewatch it. Dr. Caligari is a great classic. A foundation for horror, twist ending and more. The Fly was on my own list, LOVE IT. The Exorcist was too; I respect it and admire it more than I love it. But it gets better every time. :up:
The other scene that really got to me (and it'll sound silly when I type it :lol: ) but it's towards the end actually, and as Jay's friends are driving her away, she looks at her house and sees it in the form a catatonic naked man on the roof with black eyes staring at her. That really got to me as well even though it was over after a couple of seconds!
But yes, the 7 foot man scene is the one I always think about in relation to the film, it haunts me!
And I agree about Caligari, in fact, it's probably one of the best twist endings I've seen! Horror or otherwise.
I think my heart would stop functioning if I had to endure the 7 foot man scene again
I swear i burst out laughing during that scene. I just so didn't expect it to be someone that size which is obviously where the scare comes from for most, i'm pretty sure i mentioned that in my short write up for it haha.
I swear i burst out laughing during that scene. I just so didn't expect it to be someone that size which is obviously where the scare comes from for most, i'm pretty sure i mentioned that in my short write up for it haha.
I would have slapped you if we watched that together, because I swear I nearly wet myself watching that and someone laughing at it would not have impressed me :p
I was right! Ugh, it is pretty painful how hard to find this awful post was. Me and the search engine didn't have the great chemistry we usually do so i had to look through my RTLMYS posts. Anyway in bold, i know nobody cares but i just needed to know if i actually said that so i tracked it down haha.
It Follows - 8/10
http://i66.tinypic.com/5mgznd.jpg
Barely ever watch modern Horror films but i'm glad i listened to the hype and checked this one out as it was really good. Of course it wasn't scary but it had the right amount of creepiness and the soundtrack was outstanding, really enhanced every scene giving it a really tense atmosphere. Another thing i thought was that this was unintentionally hilarious at times something i wasn't expecting, and not in a campy way more of a shock laugh reaction. Like at the start i felt awful but i cracked up when the camera panned out and the girls leg was broken pointing skywards, or the scene were Jay lets her sister into the room it is obvious someone is going to walk in after her but i wasn't expecting an extremely tall guy with a massive head. And who can forget their genius plan of waiting in the water for IT in a room with a seemingly endless supply of electrical equipment to toss :D . Loved the ending too, liked how it was left ambiguous as to whether it was just a random or IT following them, he was just too far away that it could've been Paul or just someone dressed similiarly.
Great movie, think it is now my second favourite from last year after Going Clear.
cricket
09-20-16, 06:50 PM
The last 6 are brilliant, except for It Follows, which was still decent. It just looks out of place amidst the other classics.
The last 6 are brilliant, except for It Follows, which was still decent. It just looks out of place amidst the other classics.
I utterly loved it, though! And the bright palette with that soundtrack, of course it was going to be high for me :p
10. The Shining (Stanley Kubrick - 1980)
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Kubrick's film that was initially lambasted by critics has since become one of the most recognisable horrors there's ever been.
Following Jack Nicholson, who takes a caretaker job at an extremely out of the way hotel during its off season in order to develop his career as a writer. Where a combination of cabin fever and supernatural forces begin to push him over the edge.
This heavily orchestrated piece of work (one scene was reportedly shot 127 times) pays off hugely in delivering its primary purpose; to scare. This particularly masters the fear of the unknown, by having the malefic inhabitants of the overlook hotel consistently remain unpredictable. For example, the quick cut aways to the butchered corpses of the creepy sisters nearly sent me into a nervous breakdown :lol:
This unpredictability lends itself brilliantly to providing tension for the duration of the film, that not even Shelley Duvall's piss poor acting can remove. Then, of course, it all erupts in the conclusion of the film to result in an intriguing, satisfying, but still an overall ambiguous ending that manages to unsettle until the very last frame!
9. Night of the Living Dead (George Romero - 1968)
http://images.sequart.org/images/night_of_the_living_dead_3.jpg
The king of low budget horror films, that would forever change the boundaries of film as a medium, perhaps helping to push open the door for the exploitation films that would follow throughout the 70s.
This black and white film is rather tame by modern standards, but it provides a gritty sense of realism that makes the slowly moving "ghouls" all the more fearsome. The premise is inspired and imaginative, and it's difficult to believe how influential an independent film such as this has gone on to be so influential. But deservedly so in this case, for it is a trye masterpiece and accomplishment in cinema!
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