Top Ten Halloween Movies
With Halloween creeping up on us rapidly, I thought I’d share a few films worthy of viewing to get you in the Halloween mood. These movies range from comedic to self referential to just plan scary. As always, these are just a few suggestions, feel free to include your personal favorites for your Halloween horror scream-a-thon. Please keep in mind that most of these films are rated R so parental guidance is suggested (and so forth)…
10. Creepshow
Enjoy these five tales of terror in this anthology film directed by George A. Romero and written by Stephen King (King even stars in the second story). Mixing humor and horror, the film is a must – if only to see a young Ed Harris trying to disco dance, Stephen King turn into a plant, or Leslie Nelson haunted by two waterlogged zombies. Be warned, the last story, “They’re Creeping Up On You!”, is a cockroach hater’s worse nightmare!
9. Shaun of the Dead
If you’re in the mood for a serious zombie film you can always check out any of Romero’s wonderful early zombie films, but if you want something fun, this one is it. The movie is lighthearted enough to be taken seriously, yet it never becomes too serious. Enjoy.
8. Ghost Busters
Nothing can top this 1984 classic. Here you have ghosts, demon dogs, and a giant Stay Puft Marshmallow Man causing havoc on downtown New York. What more could you ask for?
7. Psycho
If suspense is what you crave, well this Hitchcock film will suit you just fine. No ghosts, ghouls or goblins in this film – just the story of the ultimate momma’s boy. Who can forget that infamous shower scene? Anthony Perkins shines in this film.
6. Scream
Self referential horror may be more your thing, and if so, pick up this gem. Everything you wanted to know about surviving a horror movie is in this film. Mixing scares with humor is just what a Halloween party needs and Scream has the perfect combination of both.
5. A Nightmare on Elm Street
Wes Craven’s classic is always worthy of some Halloween viewing. Dark, creepy and inventive – the story of a boogeyman stalking you in your dreams is the perfect way to scare yourself to sleep.
4. The Exorcist
Controversial for its time, this 1973 film directed by William Friedkin about a twelve year old girl possessed by the devil is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for some serious scares. Please note, this film is meant to be seen by mature audiences.
3. Paranormal Activity
If you would rather go out and enjoy your Halloween at the movies, well then this little indie flick is definitely the film to see this weekend. The suspense is gradual but the payoff is well worth it. This movie will definitely give you the chills.
2. Trick ‘r Treat
Just released on DVD, this is the perfect film to evoke the Halloween spirit. Set on Halloween night in a small town, this anthology features serial killers, zombies, vampires, and a strange little creature out for tricks.
1. Halloween (1978)
Really? This needs no explanation, as creepy as it was then as it is now. Watch John Carpenter’s classic and have yourself a scary Halloween.
