DVD Talk Forum - View Single Post - The 5th Annual "October Horror Movie Challenge" (10/1

llandros · 09-19-09, 06:05 PM

Thursday - October 1

1. Alien (1979) - ***** (DVD - 12:00 am)
Comments : I have seen this movie more times than I can remember and I always find something new to it. A deep space mining crew is awakened from hypersleep to investigate a strange signal from a distant planet. They bring back an unwanted creature that destroys the crew one by one. This is a true classic that never fails to impress or entertain. Hard to believe that it is now 30 years old! Couldn't think of a better movie to start this challenge!

2. Aliens (1986) - ***** (DVD - 2:00 am)
Comments : A rare case when a sequel actually measures up to the original. After 57 years in suspended hypersleep, Ellen Ripley returns to the planet where the alien was first encountered. Only this time, she's part of a rescue crew of marines investigating the lack of communication with the colonists that have settled the planet. This one is hard to beat on every level and really is a roller coaster ride of a movie! Sigourney Weaver is excellent as are the effects and story. A classic that never gets old for me.

3. Alien³ (1992) - **** (DVD - 4:45 am)
Comments : Ripley crash lands on a prison planet with an alien on board her escape vehicle. As the creature grows and begins dispatching the prisoners, Ripley begins to understand a more horrifying connection with the alien. Underappreciated upon original release, this one still has a terrific performance by Sigourney Weaver and great atmosphere. Although it is flawed, I still enjoy it for the most part. The Special Edition is a definite improvement but effects are not up to the first two films.

4. Alien Resurrection (1997) - *** (DVD - 9:15 am)
Comments : 200 years later, Ellen Ripley is cloned to harvest the alien embryo inside. When the aliens prove too smart for their captors, a small group of smugglers have to find a way to escape an infested ship as well as deal with a Ripley that may not have their best interests in mind. This movie had potential but unfortunately is another step down from the others. Some over-the-top acting and a few bad one liners don't help. Has its moments, both good and bad. I can still get into it but had hoped for a bit more. Again, Weaver does her best and the effects are great.

5. Cube (1997) - **** (DVD - 11:30 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Several strangers wake up inside a cube containing numerous interconnecting rooms, many of which contain deadly traps. Tensions and emotions begin to unravel as they try to make sense of their surroundings and find a way to escape. This was an excellent choice for the film subset and really keeps you on edge. I couldn't help but be reminded of the Saw films, although this one came first. Good performances by an unknown cast keep this one moving.

6. The Legend of Hell House (1973) - **** (DVD - 2:40 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Four people (2 psychics along with a paranormal researcher and his wife) attempt to unravel the strange occurances at a house with a violent past. The malevolent spirits in the house soon begin to torment the guests during their week long stay. Pretty effective haunted house movie with some interesting camera angles, moody yet minimal score, and decent effects (for the time). Some creepy moments along with a very good cast make this one a good movie. Although rated PG, it has a much more dark, sinister, and adult tone.

7. See No Evil (2006) - *** (DVD - 5:15 pm)
Comments : Juvenile delinquets perform community service to reduce their sentence through cleaning up a rundown former hotel. They come across a giant ax-wielding killer inhabiting the hotel who likes to remove the eyes from his victims. Very gory film is about what you might expect and doesn't let up. A decent film but you may not care too much about the fate of most of the characters. Still, does not shy away from gore and violence.

8. The Little Girl Who Lives Down The Lane (1976) - *** (DVD - 7:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A 13 year old girl is menaced by the town child molestor and attracts the attention of other people in town that are curious about her seemingly absent father. Jodie Foster does a great job in this well-acted and uncomfortable thriller. Not a traditional horror film as much as a thriller, with horror elements.

9. I Bury The Living (1958) - *** (DVD - 8:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : The new chairman of a cemetary begins to suspect that he is responsible for several deaths after accidentally putting the 'occupied' pin on the cemetary plot map. Interesting concept and twist. Black and white thriller is pretty good for it's type.

10. Silent Scream (1980) - *** (VHS - 10:15 pm)
Comments : Four college students rent rooms in a seaside home with a woman and her odd high school aged son. But who, or what, is behind the wall in the attic and creeping behind the walls of the large house? Standard slasher that has been out of circulation on video for years, to be released on DVD finally in November. I remember this from the drive in theatre back in the day, with creepy performances by Yvonne DeCarlo and Barbara Steele. Ok slasher with a few scares along the way, but the VHS quality is hard to bear!.

Friday - October 2

11. Dracula (1931) - *** (DVD - 8:00 am)
Comments : Dracula comes to London and puts Mina under his spell. Van Helsing and Jonathan Harker attempt to stop him. Ok, Lugosi is great and Dwight Frye is Renfield but this classic is extremely talkie and dated by today'standards. Great production is very tame.

12. Nightmare Castle (1965) - *** (DVD - 11:15 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A scientist takes sadistic revenge on his unfaithful wife and her lover, then plots to drive her stepsister insane to inherit her money. Italian production is poorly dubbed (which adds to its charm) and is extremely melodramatic. Haunted elements add fun to this gothic revenge thriller. Sometimes unintentionally funny but also worth a look with a great cast. Seek out the restored version known as "The Faceless Monster" with a much better transfer.

13. The Substitute (2007) - **** (DVD - 1:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Poor Carl. While dealing with the death of his mother, he also has a new substitute teacher that has some very strange behaviors. When the students discover her secret, none of the adults are willing to believe their outlandish stories. I really liked this movie for its dark and warped sense of humor. The performances are good and the story is alot of fun.

14. Laserblast (1978) - * (Netflix Online - 3:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Boy finds a laser weapon and begins to ...oh, who cares? Big old piece of garbage that was only bareable due to the MST3K treatment. Dull and tedious to say the least. More horrible than horror!

15. His Name Was Jason: 30 Years of Friday the 13th (2009) - **** (DVD - 6:00 pm)
Comments : Pretty good documentary covering all 11 films, plus a bit of the remake. With so many of the survivors willing to come back for another round, I am surprised that it hasn't at least been kicked around seriously. If done right it could be alot of fun and great for the fans.

16. Return to Horror High (1987) - **** (DVD - 7:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A film crew making a movie about a series of murders at a high school try to film in the actual location of the events. One by one, they begin to die. Lots of dark humor along with a brief appearance by George Clooney and Maureen McCormick (Marcia Brady)! Liked this one and surprised I had never seen it before.

17. House on Haunted Hill (1999) - *** (DVD - 10:00 pm)
Comments : A wealthy man throws a birthday party for his wife and 5 strangers in a former asylum with a grisly past, offering 1 million dollars to those who stay the entire night. Good cast, plenty of gore, great atmosphere and effects, but not in the same league as the original. Some nods to the original as well.

Saturday - October 3

18. Return to House on Haunted Hill (2007) - ** (DVD - 5:00 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Better title would be "Raiders of the House on Haunted Hill". People enter the Hill House in search of the priceless Bath Mat (that's what it sounded like) idol and encounter the evil spirits inside. Largely unknown cast in this direct-to-DVD sequel with some gory kills and a pretty silly set-up. Take some Drammamine for the ridiculous use of shaky cam in this one. Jeffrey Coombs must have had a house payment due. Watch after the end credits for a bit of nudity and obvious setup for further sequels. Or not.

19. The Sickhouse (2007) - * (DVD - 10:00 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : An archaeologist and 4 young adults are trapped in a London Black Plague site where they have unleashed an evil spirit. Low budget film is so darkly lit that it is hard to see anything. Yet again, the dreaded shaky cam, quick cuts and hand held camera views annoy more than anything else. Slow moving with a few sick scenes and not much else yet could have been something. Trys for a twist ending but by that point, you won't really care.

20. Poltergeist (1982) - ***** (DVD - 11:45 am)
Comments : Suburban family's home is invaded by malevolent spirits that concentrate on their youngest daughter. Now this is more like it! I love this movie and remember seeing it at the theatre back in '82. Some effects are dated but it has aged pretty well. Strong storytelling and excellent performances make this a winner all around. Hopefully, the dreaded rumored remake will vanish into the closet light!

21. House of Wax (1953) - **** (DVD - 1:40 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : After a devastating fire destroys a sculptor's wax creations, he rebuilds his museum despite having lost the use of his hands. Effective film with Vincent Price excellent as the sculptor. Another classic that I am ashamed to say that I have missed until now!

22. Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986) - *** (DVD - 5:00 pm)
Comments : One year later and the family is terrorizrd again by the restless spirits. I like parts of this movie but it is extremely flawed. Would love to see the rumored extended cut, if it even exists. A shame since it has a great cast and one creepy villain played by Julien Beck. Goldsmith's score is top notch as well - it's just the story that really disappoints. Not a total loss though.

23. Poltergeist III (1988) - *** (DVD - 7:00 pm)
Comments : Carol Ann goes to Chicago to temporarily live with relatives but the spirits have followed her as well. Tragic passing of Heather O'Rourke overshadows the film which tries for a more low key approach for special effects, some of which are pretty impressive. Some parts work ok, but it just doesn't come together as well as it should. It's a shame because a pretty decent cast is wasted in this sequel. Not that bad but could have been so much better.

24. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989) - *** (DVD - 9:00 pm)
Comments : Jason hitches a ride with some graduating seniors on a cruise to New York. Silly, trashy, and I love it! Not art but always had a soft spot for the Friday films, no matter how bad they were. Ending is still a bit bizarre but considering where they took the story in the next two installments...!

25. Ghost Ship (2002) - *** (DVD - 10:45 pm)
Comments : A salvage crew finds a floating luxury liner that isn't as vacant as it fist seems. After a great opening scene, this one just kind of feels played out and never matches that same level again. Good cast tries hard but it just isn't enough. Just average.

Sunday - October 4

26. The Manitou (1978) - *** (DVD - 8:45 am)
Comments : A woman develops a tumor on her back that grows at an alarming rate, puzzling her doctors and tarot card reading ex-lover. Naked midgets, indian black magic and exploding flying typewriters! And that cosmic ending in the hospital room is hysterical. Campy film has a good first half but goes way over the top towards the end. This was a late night cable staple on TV when I was growing up. Icky birth scene and seance stand out.

27. Bug (2006) - *** (DVD - 11:30 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A woman lives in a rundown motel scared of her abusive ex-husband. She takes in a drifter and discovers a bug infestation in her room. Not quite what I expected but interesting psychological thriller with an excellent cast. Claustrophobic and depressing, yet oddly hypnotic with some disturbing scenes.

28. The Last Winter (2006) - * (DVD - 3:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : An advance drilling team in the Arctic begins to experience strange behavior and phenomenon in the Arctic. Very slow moving film takes forever to go anywhere. Lots of shots and scenes of people walking and waiting around gets pretty dull fast. Finally picks up a bit after 50 minutes or so, but still dull.

29. Dead Silence (2006) - *** (DVD - 7:00 pm)
Comments : A local legend of a ventriloquist and her dolls begins to come true for one man and a detective. Not too bad, actually, but those dolls have always creeped me out anyway. Plus, Mary Shaw is a pretty scary image as well. Had forgotten most of this movie so it was a treat to see it again.

30. Vamp (1986) - **** (DVD - 9:00 pm)
Comments : Two fraternity pledges head out to hire a stripper for their initiation. They make the mistake of finding some with a taste for human blood! Loved this movie when I saw it in the theatre. Horror comedy in the same vein (pun intended) as Fright Night. Funny with a few scares here and there - and one crazy strip sequence from Grace Jones!

Monday - October 5

31. High Tension (2003) - **** (DVD - 5:15 pm)
Comments : Two girls head to the french countryside to study and run across a brutal psychopath. Ok, I admit, I fell for the shock ending when I went to see this. It still holds up and is loaded with gore, but not the same once you've seen the ending. Still, a gruesome but fun watch!

32. Boogeyman (2005) - *** (DVD - 7:00 pm)
Comments : A boy grows up with an intense fear of the boogeyman and must return to the house of his youth to face his fears. This movie has a great beginning but really loses focus towards the end. I liked it more upon first seeing it but not as much now. Ok, I guess, but the CGI does nothing for me here.

33. The Grudge (2004) - *** (DVD - 8:45 pm)
Comments : A house affects the lives of everyone who enters, leaving a trail of death in several intersecting characters. Not really as good as the original but an ok remake with some scares along the way. The ghosts are at times both creepy and a little silly, but if you are in the right mood, can be fun.

Tuesday - October 6

34. The Nanny (1965) - **** (DVD - 8:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A troubled young boy returns from the hospital and is scared of the family nanny. I would never have seen this movie if not for the challenge subset. I was very impressed and found it to be chilling, sad, and haunting. Would recommend this one!

35. The Hunt (2006) - **** (DVD - 8:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : While filming a hunting video, a hunting party goes missing. Low budget film has some similarities to The Blair Witch Project but is competently filmed and acted. Not too bad and keeps your interest.

36. Contamination (1980) - *** (DVD - 9:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Egg-like objects arrive in New York and release a toxin causing victims to explode. Oh man, where to start on this one? Bad acting, insipid yet laugh-out-loud dialogue, hilarious overdubbing, horrible music, just cheesy in every way possible. This Alien ripoff is one of those so-bad-it's-good kind of movie - but it is really NOT good. Still, if you're in the mood for this sort of thing... And that sound the eggs make before they hatch is ridiculous!

Wednesday - October 7

37. Vampyr (1932) - *** (DVD - 4:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A man staying in a hotel encounters death that seems to come from a supernatural source. Interesting, practically silent film is not for all tastes and has its moments, but not quite what I was expecting. At times, fascinating, and at other times, tedious.

38. Prom Night (1980) - *** (DVD - 8:00 pm)
Comments : Someone is killing several high school seniors on the night of the prom. Ok, was there ever a doubt who the killer was?! I forgot this movie for the most part and watching it now, didn't know if it was supposed to be this silly or not. Plus, how old are these 'teenagers' in this high school? Ok slasher, but looks like it was filmed with vaseline on the camera lens. The dance scene is hysterical!

39. Hello Mary Lou! Prom Night II (1987) - **** (DVD - 9:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Prom Queen and bad girl Mary Lou dies in a tragic prank, but her spirit returns 30 years later to take revenge. Funny, tongue-in-cheek movie has no relation to the original film but is alot of fun. Campy with a few scares along the way. Will watch this one again!

Thursday - October 8

40. Prom Night III: The Last Kiss (1987) - ** (DVD - 7:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Mary Lou returns from the grave and haunts a high school boy, making him an accomplice to her murder spree. Corny attempts at horror spoof don't really work in this lame sequel. Too bad after the last installment. Also not helping is the DVD is the tv-edit.

41. Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (2006) - **** (DVD - 9:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A documentary crew film a serial killer as he details the setup for his planned attack on a group of young kids. A fun film that pays homage to all the slasher film rules. Twisted humor gives way to a darker climax.

Friday - October 9

42. Prom Night IV: Deliver Us From Evil (1992) - * (DVD - 6:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A deranged priest goes after teenage sinners. What a complete waste of time this one was. Bad acting and just plain stupid. Also, the priest should be much older than the kids he is stalking but doesn't age over the 30+ years of the film. Oh well, had to finish the series to say that I have seen them all.

43. The Signal (2007) - *** (DVD - 8:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A signal begins to effect people causing random and violent outbursts. Comedy mixed with violence and a constant feeling of uncertainty of each character's motivations. Pretty good film although at times hard to follow.

44. [REC] (2006) - **** (DVD - 10:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A reporter and cameraman filming a fire crew get locked in an apartment building that has been quarantined. Probably would have been more effective if I had seen this one before the remake. Well-done, claustrophobic film.

45. Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead (2007) - *** (DVD - 11:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A chicken franchise is built on the site of a indian burial ground. Not sure what I was expecting from this, but it is truly bizarre. Cheesy, silly, and just strange, but if you are in the mood, could be funny.

Saturday - October 10

46. The Grudge 2 (2006) - *** (DVD - 1:45 pm)
Comments : A girl travels to Japan to bring back her sister and experiences the rage-filled spirits. Decent, but not great sequel. Seemingly unrelated plots finally come together in the last few minutes. Should have been better.

47. Chopping Mall (1986) - *** (DVD - 3:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A shopping mall installs security robots to roam at night. Cheesy 80's movie is so bad it's good. As long as you know what you are getting into...

48. Baby Blues (2008) - **** (DVD - 5:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A mother of four sinks further into a depressed state while her husband is away at work. Wow - I didn't really know what to expect with this one. Suspenseful, tough to watch at times film is pretty good. If you don't like seeing children in danger, you may want to skip this one. Otherwise, a vey chilling movie.

49. The Stepford Wives (1975) - **** (DVD - 7:00 pm)
Comments : A family moves to Stepford where things seem to be just a bit too perfect. Even knowing the ending, this is a great film from the 70's. Katharine Ross is great and Paula Prentiss adds a great comedic element.

50. Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993) - *** (DVD - 9:30 pm)
Comments : After being blown to bits by the FBI, Jason's spirit inhabits various bodies looking for a way to be reborn. Not one of the better sequels, but at least they tried for something different. Some gory moments and a few shoutouts to other horror films.

Sunday - October 11

51. The Grudge 3 (2009) - *** (DVD - 8:00 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : The curse has taken over a Chicago apartment building. Good DTV follow-up is almost undone by the bad acting of it's female lead, otherwise, about the same as part 2.

52. The Messengers (2007) - *** (DVD - 10:30 am)
Comments : A family moves to the country to a farm where the kids begin to see strange things happening. Really good cast and a few creepy moments along the way.

53. Cemetary Man (1993) - **** (DVD - 1:00 pm)
Comments : A man works at a cemetary where the dead come back to life. Dark humor and multiple viewings help with this movie. I was not a fan the first time I saw it, but have sense come to really like it. Weird but interesting.

54. Wind Chill (2007) - **** (DVD - 5:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : While traveling home from college for winter break, two students have an accident leaving them stranded on a deserted road in the middle of the night. Another movie that I had no idea what to expect. Very good film often feels like an X-Files episode, very atmospheric and holds your interest. Creepy and claustrophobic.

55. The Return (2006) - *** (DVD - 7:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A woman is drawn to a small Texas town even though she is constantly feeling stalked by someone there and having visions. Slow-moving film has its moments, but tends to drag in spots. Not bad, but seems to take a while to get going.

56. No Man's Land: The Rise of Reeker (2008) - *** (DVD - 9:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A serial killer is executed and 30 years later, returns. Inventive effects, gory, but very strange story. Pretty good opening and then the film takes off in a bizarre direction. Didn't know this is a sequel though.

Monday - October 12

57. Death Bed: The Bed That Eats (1977) - * (DVD - 4:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : For a synopsis, see the title. As for the film itself, what the hell did I just watch?! How much voice over can one film actually have? Truly bizarre movie.

58. Highwaymen (2004) - *** (DVD - 7:30 pm)
Comments : A man uses his car to stalk and kill others while the husband of one of his victims pursues him. Beautifully shot, but the story has alot of holes in it. Still, well acted and fast moving film with some creepy moments.

59. Joy Ride (2001) - **** (DVD - 9:00 pm)
Comments : A cb radio prank goes too far when the victim decides to exact revenge. Both funny and suspenseful film is very well done. A little far-fetched at times, but still enjoyable.

Tuesday - October 13

60. Psycho (1960) - ***** (DVD - 4:00 pm)
Comments : A man and his mother run a motel off the main highway. How can you go wrong with this one? So much emphasis is given on 'the shower scene' but Anthony Perkins is fascinating to watch. A classic in every sense of the word.

61. Psycho II (1983) - **** (DVD - 6:00 pm)
Comments : After 23 years in an asylum, Norman Bates is coming home. Good sequel gets most of it's momentum from Anthony Perkins. Story pays homage to the original and has a good payoff. Some people complain about the ending, although much of that is revisited in part 3.

62. Psycho III (1986) - *** (DVD - 8:00 pm)
Comments : A troubled girl leaves a convent tragically and finds refuge at the Bates Motel. Decent sequel tends to follow a more slasher film format which diminishes what was really effective in the previous two films. Not as successful this time around, but Perkins is still giving it his all. Some pretty sleazy and unlikeable characters make it easier to root for the killer in this one. Shower scene is a pretty good shocker.

Wednesday - October 14

63. The Girl Next Door (2007) - **** (DVD - 4:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Two girls go to live with their aunt and cousins in a small town after a tragic accident. Horrifying film is extremely tough to watch and very deceptive in the first half. Although well-done, it is not an enjoyable film and is guaranteed to make you angry.

64. Joy Ride 2: Dead Ahead (2008) - *** (DVD - 5:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Four people are menaced by a sadistic trucker. Ok DTV sequel has no known actors but works for the most part. Some pretty implausible scenes threaten to ruin the whole thing, but if you can overlook them, it's not that bad. And the 'gamling' scene is pretty tense as well. Lame setup for another sequel doesn't help.

65. Pieces (1983) - *** (DVD - 7:45 pm)
Comments : A serial killer is killing college co-eds and removing various parts. Cheesy, awful, ridiculous - and I love every minute of it!

Thursday - October 15

66. Troll (1986) - ** (DVD - 7:15 pm)
Comments : A cursed troll is converting an apartment building into a fairy universe. Don't expect any horror from this silly movie. I give the actors credit for keeping a straight face but still an embarassing mess. Campy and not to be taken seriously in typical 80's fashion!

67. Troll 2 (1990) - * (DVD - 9:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : 90 minutes of pure hell - never again! (Well, maybe not - just the last time sober!)

Friday - October 16

68. Deep Red (1975) - *** (DVD - 2:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A pianist witnesses a brutal murder and becomes obsessed with solving the case. All the Argento trademarks are present with this one. It is a bit talky and the switching from dubbed English to subtitles in the Director's Cut is a bit jarring. Could have used a few trims as some scenes drag on way too long.

69. Alligator (1980) - **** (DVD - 5:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : An alligator endures pesky humans on its way to a high society wedding - well, not really, but close enough! I loved this cheesy movie from beginning to end and can't explain why. Just a fun film!

70. Drag Me To Hell (2009) - **** (DVD - 9:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A loan officer denies an old gypsy women a loan extension and then endures a curse that will consume her soul. What a surprise this movie turned out to be. I missed it in theatres but it is funny with some scares. Some of the CGI is a bit awkward at times, but overall, very well done.

Saturday - October 17

71. Inferno (1980) - ** (DVD - 7:00 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A man searches for his sister who has gone missing after becoming interested in the mystery of the three mothers. Argento's folow-up/sequel to Suspiria is nowhere near as successful and at times becomes a confused mess. And that music is bizarre.

72. The Stepfather (2009) - *** (Theatre - 10:30 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A man is obsessed with having the perfect family. Not a bad film, but nothing new here in this remake. Good cast tries but it's still a pointless remake to the original.

73. Zombieland (2009) - **** (Theatre - 12:20 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A handful of humans try to survive in a world overrun by zombies. Gory and funny film is very enjoyable - but not scary in the slightest. Lots of clever dialogue and some great surprises in this one.

74. Paranormal Activity (2009) - **** (Theatre - 2:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A couple begin to film and document the strange occurances they experience in their home. Creepy film that is best experienced with a group. Reminiscent of Blair Witch, but with a much better payoff and more likeable leads.

75. Let The Right One In (2008) - **** (DVD - 8:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A picked-on 12 year old boy befriends a neighbor girl with a secret. Not exactly what I was expecting, but a really good movie. Slow in several parts but very atmospheric and the kids do a great job. Would call this more of a drama with horror elements.

76. Jason X (2002) - * (DVD - 10:30 pm)
Comments : After being cryogenically frozen, Jason is revived by a group of students who take him aboard their spaceship. Just as ludicrous as it sounds. Gets worse every time I see it and really showed signs of desperation with what to do with this franchise.

Sunday - October 18

77. Tenebrae (1982) - **** (DVD - 10:30 am) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A writer's latest novel is being used as a blueprint for murder by an unknown killer. Gory and stylish but the DVD is the lowest quality. Too bad, as I enjoyed this Argento film.

78. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) - **** (DVD - 12:30 pm)
Comments : A killer stalks teenagers in their sleep. Have not watched this one in a very long time. It still hold up quite well. Very inventive for 1984 and Freddy is scary in this one. Not sure why they are doing a remake when the original is still good enough.

79. The Evil Dead (1981) - **** (DVD - 3:30 pm)
Comments : While vacationing in a secluded cabin in the woods, five people unleash the evil dead. What else can be said about this one? I have not seen this one in a while and had forgotten how gory it is. Funny and doesn't waste any time getting going.

80. The Fly (1986) - **** (DVD - 5:30 pm)
Comments : A scientist invents a teleportation machine and tests it on himself and, unknowingly, a housefly at the same time. This is how a remake is done! Gory, funny, sad, and scary. Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis are incredible in this monster movie. Wonderful effects and makeup are complimented by a very good script and excellent performances.

81. The Exorcist (1973) - ***** (DVD - 7:15 pm)
Comments : A priest comes to the aid of a 12 year old girl who appears possessed. Nothing compares to this film. Incredible performances and a very slow build with atmosphere and scares that linger long after viewing. Many films have tried to duplicate it, but this is one that still has the power to scare.

Monday - October 19

82. Spider Baby (1968) - *** (Netflix Online - 5:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A chauffer takes care of a family of inbred lunatics. Weird movie is not what I had expected at all. Very interesting to see a young Sid Haig in this. Biggest drawback for me is not the film, but watching it online. Streaming is still not much fun for me at all.

83. A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 2: Freddy's Revenge (1985) - *** (DVD - 7:00 pm)
Comments : It's five years later and a new family has moved into the house on Elm Street. Freddy tries to possess the son to murder for him. Much-hated sequel upon its original release is actually better than the reputation it has. Freddy is not the wise-cracking caricature yet and some parts are pretty creepy. Still, it has its many flaws but not as bad as once thought.

84. Night of the Living Dead (1968) - ***** (DVD - 8:45 pm)
Comments : Several strangers band together in a farmhouse to escape zombies roaming the area. Another classic that I can't add anything that hasn't been said before. I don't watch this movie nearly enough.

Tuesday - October 20

85. A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 3: Dream Warriors (1987) - *** (DVD - 4:30 pm)
Comments : Young people are commited to a hospital for suicidal tendencies and suffer from nightmares. Pretty good sequel and a boost for tying in the first film. Some of the characters are a bit annoying but still enjoyable. Freddy's one-liners were brought to the forefront in this one.

86. Dawn of the Dead (1978) - **** (DVD - 6:00 pm)
Comments : Survivors take refuge in a shopping mall while the dead gather outside. Funny and gory, although very stylized gore in this one. Only complaint is that it does drag on a bit in some scenes but very well done.

87. Day of the Dead (1985) - **** (DVD - 8:30 pm)
Comments : Scientists and military in an underground bunker conduct experiments on the dead and search for other survivors. This one was not as well received in theatres but I really like it. Yes, some of the characters are very unlikeable, but necessary to show the strained conditions of the circumstances. Very gory with an excellent job by Savini - more realistic than the dayglo colors of Dawn of the Dead.

Wednesday - October 21

88. A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 4: The Dream Master (1988) - *** (DVD - 4:15 pm)
Comments : Freddy returns to kill the last of the Elm Street children but is opposed by a girl who has learned to master her dreams. This one has a much more polished look to it. Freddy's wise-cracks really started taking over at this point and the scares went out the window. Still, better than it had any right to be.

89. From Beyond (1986) - *** (DVD - 5:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A science experiment goes wrong and brings forth something from another dimension. Pretty over-the-top but fun film has it's moments. If you liked Re-Animator, you may enjoy this one too..

90. Dawn of the Dead (2004) - **** (DVD - 7:30 pm)
Comments : Strangers come together in a local mall when the dead overtake the area. Excellent remake of the classic has some gruesome moments along with a pretty nice amount of comedy. Good cast keeps this one moving along at a very fast pace.

Thursday - October 22

91. Land of the Dead (2004) - *** (DVD - 3:00 pm)
Comments : Civilizatons have begun to spring up in major cities, however, the dead are also evolving as well. Good cast tries its best, but this one just isn't quite up to the others. Not bad, but expectations were a bit higher for this one. Excellent makeup effects, once again.

92. A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 5: The Dream Child (1989) - *** (DVD - 5:30 pm)
Comments : Freddy's trying to reach more teens through the dreams of one's unborn child. Interesting concept, but kinda felt played out by this point. Some interesting effects but the one-liners don't seem to have aged as well. No scares and a bit boring at times. Not bad, but about on the same level as the last one.

93. Ravenous (1999) - **** (DVD - 7:30 pm)
Comments : At a military fort, a war hero discovers a gruesome secret about the diet of several others he is stationed with. Pretty good film with an excellent cast. Gory, dark humor, and a few good twists along the way.

Friday - October 23

94. Burial Ground: The Nights of Terror (1981) - ** (DVD - 7:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : People vacationing at an Italian villa encounter zombies. Oh man, I don't know what to say about this one! So bad it's good and then bad and then just plain weird. Extremely bad acting, laughable effects, zombies so slow that it was shocking anyone could ever be caught by one, bad makeup, creepy incest, music that sounds like an 80's arcade room...the list just goes on and on!

95. End of the Line (2007) - **** (DVD - 9:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Several people become trapped in a subway tunnel where they are the victims of vicious attacks. Didn't know what to expect with this one and it was surprisingly entertaining. Disturbing due to the nature of those doing the killing. Claustrophobic and well-done low budget film.

96. Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991) - ** (DVD - 10:30 pm)
Comments : Freddy uses the last teenager in Springwood to bring other victims to him and to create a way to enter new territory. Man, I forgot how bad this one really is. A few good sequences, but the story and dialogue are pretty bad. It doesn't help that the characters are so unlikeable. What should have been a great send-off was just a big mess. The final sequence in 3-D looks bad to me, just like it did in the theatre.

Saturday - October 24

97. Wes Craven's New Nightmare (1994) - **** (DVD - 11:45 am)
Comments : Freddy is resurrected by his original creators in a film that follows original star Heather Langenkamp. Clever premise and a pretty good redesign of Freddy let the series go out on a high note. Some stiff acting in places, but overall a fun film. Great cameos by some of the original stars.

98. Prince of Darkness (1987) - *** (DVD - 3:00 pm)
Comments : A priest and group of grad school students discover a cannister in an old church that houses an evil power. Not one of Carpenter's best, but not that bad. Kind of talky for the first half, although the street vagrants do add a very creepy vibe.

99. Friday the 13th (2009) - **** (DVD - 8:00 pm)
Comments : A group of friends and a man searching for his sister at Crystal Lake come up against Jason. Not bad, but some missed opportunities in this one. A slew of standard sterotype characters, although fast moving Jason is a nice touch.

100. Freddy vs. Jason (2003) - **** (DVD - 10:00 pm)
Comments : Freddy uses Jason to strike fear on Elm Street but when even he can't control him, the two face off. Didn't remember this one being as graphic - for some reason was thinking it was another watered down PG-13 film. Mainly a Freddy movie with Jason thrown in. Some groan worthy moments with the teens, but overall pretty fun. Attempt to rewrite some of the legend (Freddy and fire / Jason and water) doesn't really work but easy to overlook.

Sunday - October 25

101. Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1990) - **** (DVD - 10:00 am)
Comments : Henry is an ex-con living with a friend he met in prison. Together, they begin to kill randomly to satisfy their urges. At times a difficult film to watch due to the unremorsefulness and viciousness of the characters. Disturbing, sad, and rough film has good performances.

102. House By the Cemetary (1981) - **** (DVD - 3:30 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A family moves into a house in New England but something is already living there in the basement. Loved this Fulci classic full of bad dubbing, throat-ripping, maggot spewing, head-ripping fun. A lot of familiar faces for those who follow Fulci and Argento's other films.

103. The Strangers (2008) - **** (DVD - 5:45 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A couple return to their family home in the country after a wedding and are menaced in the dead of night. This movie gave me quite a few scares. Very savage and dripping with atmosphere, depressing and disturbing. Zombies, monsters, Freddy, etc. I can handle - but when it has a more realistic premise like this, it really creeps me out.

104. Vacancy (2007) - *** (DVD - 7:30 pm)
Comments : A couple have car trouble and are forced to stay the night at an out of the way motel, not realizing they have wandered into a bad situation. Better than it had any right to be, but still kind of missed the mark. I like the actors, but some parts just seem awful familiar.

105. Resident Evil: Extinction (2007) - *** (DVD - 9:15 pm)
Comments : A band of survivors head to a large city to locate gas and supplies before heading to Alaska to escape the zombie population. Some pretty good effects but it does tend to drag in the middle a bit. Nice thing is that I had not seen it for a long time so it felt like seeing it for the first time.

Monday - October 26

106. An American Werewolf in London (1981) - ***** (DVD - 4:30 pm)
Comments : Two american travelers are attacked by a werewolf leaving one to begin transforming at the next full moon. Loved this movie growing up and it still holds up for me today. Can't say enough about the makeup effects, the comedy, and the likeability of the actors. Well done movie all around!

107. Phantasm (1979) - **** (DVD - 6:30 pm)
Comments : A funeral home is the source of sinister dealings in a small town involving a very tall undertaker and some small creatures in robes. Weird movie but I really like this one. Grew up watching it several times as a kid. Funeral homes are creepy places to begin with, so the atmosphere really works.

108. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) - ***** (DVD - 8:30 pm)
Comments : A group of young adults wander into a crazy family in backwoods Texas, including one member known as 'Leatherface'. Classic film is very light on the gore allowing more to the imagination and seems to work better as a result. Some characters are just hysterical to watch and listen to (Franklin) while others (Sally) keep you on edge with their conveyance of true fear and horror.

Tuesday - October 27

109. Phantasm II (1988) - *** (DVD - 6:00 pm)
Comments : The tall man is back and the heroes from the first film are on his trail, trying to join up with a girl that appears in one's dreams. Glad that this finally got a R1 release. Change of lead actor is a bit jarring after seeing the first film, but it works well enough. If you didn't like the first, you won't enjoy this one - however, I found it to be fun.

110. Phantasm III (1994) - *** (DVD - 8:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : When Mike is kidnapped by the tall man, Reggie teams up with a young boy and Grace Jones-wannabe to save him. Calling this series strange is redundant. However, this episode is a mixed bag. Some moments but lame acting and constant reappearance of zombies(!) don't help. Beginning of this film makes the last film mostly filler and the ending is very unsatisfying. Hopefully, things will get back on track in the 4th film.

111. Frankenstein (1910) - *** (DVD - 9:45 pm) Wild Card #1 - 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Silent film version of the classic tale. Interesting short film but never have been a big fan of silent films. Some of the effects were impressive for being close to 100 years old.

Wednesday - October 28

112. Phantasm IV: Oblivion (1998) - *** (DVD - 6:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Mike continues his search for the tall man and begins to unravel his secrets. I will have to revisit this series again because it tends to make little sense at times. I get the gist of it, but it is not easy to follow. Did not have a satisfying ending either, as I assume they were leaving the door open for a future installment.

113. Final Destination (2000) - **** (DVD - 8:00 pm)
Comments : A boy has a premonition of a disaster and prevents himself and others from being killed, only to later find each of them dying mysteriously afterwards. Clever Twilight-Zone type film with some dark humor and a good cast. Lots of atmosphere in this fun movie.

Thursday - October 29

114. Shaun of the Dead (2004) - **** (DVD - 5:45 pm)
Comments : A slacker and his friends try to survive a zombie outbreak in London. I have only seen this a couple of times before and it had been a while. Forgot so much of it and it really is a fun film. Won't wait that long to watch it again.

115. Halloween III: Season of the Witch (1982) - ** (DVD - 8:00 pm)
Comments : A mask maker has plans to play the ultimate deathly prank on an unsuspecting public. This was such a wasted opportunity. I understand the original thought of turning the Halloween film series into a brand, rather than a sequel machine. Still, it really fails when held up to the original and even the respectable second film. Some good actors are wasted.

116. Bewitched (1964) - ***** (DVD - 9:45 pm) Wild Card #2 - Episode 1.7 - The Witches Are Out
Comments : Darren is asked to create an ad for a Halloween candy featuring an ugly witch, but Samantha and Aunt Clara are determined to show witches in a better light. I LOVE this series! Good episode from the first season. Aunt Clara's first appearance on the show I believe.

Friday - October 30

117. Demon Seed (1977) - **** (DVD - 6:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : A super computer terrorizes a woman and intends to mate with her. Interesting film to say the least. Julie Christy is great and some parts are just plain creepy, however it keeps your interest.

118. Trick 'r Treat (2008) - **** (DVD - 8:15 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : Several lives intersect as various stories connect on Halloween night in a small town. Had no idea what to expect with this one and I really liked it. Some clever moments where the movie plays a few tricks on not only it's characters but also the viewer. No idea why this didn't get released theatrically, but hopefully will find it's audience on DVD.

Saturday - October 31

119. The Bird With the Crystal Plumage (1970) - *** (DVD - 1:00 pm) 1st Time Viewing
Comments : An American psychologist in Italy witnesses a vicious attack and becomes intwined in solving the mystery of a serial killer's identity. Pretty easy to figure this one out, but still enjoyable. More of a crime thriller with horror elements than a true horror movie, but it counts!

120. Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers (1988) - *** (DVD - 3:30 pm)
Comments : Michael returns to Haddonfield to kill his adolescent niece. Decent sequel has atmosphere and a pretty good beginning but drags in the middle. A nice return to the original story line after the third one.

121. Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers (1989) - ** (DVD - 6:30 pm)
Comments : One year after the last installment, Michael again tries to destroy his young niece. This one is a mess but nowhere near as bad as 'Resurrection'. Makers tried to do something with the 'man in black', but it never really pays off, even in the next sequel.

122. Halloween (1978) - ***** (DVD - 8:45 pm)
Comments : A masked killer stalks babysitters on Halloween night. After Psycho, this movie really kicked off the modern slasher film. Suspense, characters, and scares take priority over gore (which there isn't really any to speak of). None of the sequels, remakes, or knock-offs have been able to duplicate this one for me. A tradition of watching this on Halloween since it's original release, it is always a treat!

123. Halloween II (1981) - **** (DVD - 10:20 pm)
Comments : Michael continues his killing spree, tracking Laurie down in the local hospital. Maybe it's just me, but hospitals have always been eerie to me. The unnerving quiet is tough for me. I like this sequel as it just keeps the original story going. Although not as effective as the first, its still a good entry in the series.

124. Halloween: 20 Years Later (1998) - *** (DVD - 11:50 pm)
Comments : Laurie Strode changes her name and goes into hiding, trying to deal with her past, only to have Michael return to finish what he started. Some nice touches and great to have Curtis back but the film doesn't quite hold up. The movie only kicks into gear for the last 20 minutes or so, but it has its moments.

And this is going to do it for my very first Horror Challenge. I had alot of fun and look forward to reviewing everyone's lists and maybe finding a few new movies to seek out. Looking forward to next year!

Checklist

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