Halloween is quickly approaching, and you might be looking for horror film recommendations. Well, you’ve found just the right article. I’ll be reviewing the classics, because I consider myself a film buff and prefer classic horror films. I’m also going to review some modern films that are not Halloween-themed but are worth watching in the meantime.
“X” trilogy
“X” (2022), “Pearl” (2022) and “MaXXXine” (2024), all directed by Ti West and starring Mia Goth are a set of unique films that have not followed the same trajectory as many traditional horror films, because some might consider these films more psychological than scary. In terms of style, if you like Quentin Tarantino films, then check out these West films. If you are interested in retro movies, both of these directors enjoy taking their own spin on different decades such as the ‘60s and the ‘70s.
“The Silence of the Lambs” series
“The Silence of the Lambs” (1991) is more of a thriller and is similarly not Halloween-themed. “The Silence of the Lambs” was directed by Jonathon Demme, and stars both Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster from the infamous “Taxi Driver” (1976) film. “The Silence of the Lambs” is based on the novel written by Thomas Harris. “Silence of the Lambs features the infamous and psychotic character, Dr. Hannibal Lecturer, who is serving life behind bars for murder and cannibalism. There are four films in the series: “The Silence of the Lambs” (1991), “Hannibal” (2001), “Red Dragon” (2002) and “Hannibal Rising” (2007).
“Halloween” series
The first horror film that is Halloween-themed that came to mind is “Halloween” (1978). I’ve seen this film multiple times over the years. Plus, if you do not like the first film, then you have the luxury of skipping to the second or even third film, because they do not revolve around the character, Michael Myers. For this reason, “Halloween III: Season of the Witch” is my personal favorite.
The “Halloween” movies also span from 1978 to 2022, which is incredible for a horror franchise. How impressive is it to have a recurring actress, Jamie Lee Curtis, star in multiple “Halloween” films over the course of almost 50 years and still deliver a show-stopping performance? A big thanks to Director John Carpenter, Curtis and all the other creative minds behind the “Halloween” franchise for providing Halloween fright and excitement for nearly half a century.
“Night of the Living Dead” series
Next up is “Night of the Living Dead” (1968). This film is an acquired taste, but if you are into eccentric films, then this zombie outbreak film might be of interest to you. It’s not only a classic, but it has strong Pittsburgh ties that will resonate with the average yinzer. The movie was filmed about 45 minutes north of Chatham University in Evans City, PA. “Night of the Living Dead” was directed by George A. Romero, who attended Carnegie Mellon University in 1960. Later, Romero expanded on this franchise with films such as “Day of the Dead” (1985) and “Dawn of the Dead” (1978).
“Black Christmas”
If you are not drawn to traditional horror films or Halloween-themed cinema, you might enjoy watching “Black Christmas” (1974), which is considered to be one of the first slashers of its time. “Black Christmas” was filmed at the University of Toronto and directed by Bob Clark, who also directed “A Christmas Story” (1983) and “Porky’s” (1981). This horror movie incorporates elements of Christmas that might add just the right touch to make a slasher movie more of an entertaining, valuable watch.
