With Summerween well underway, what better time to delve deep into the world of horror films, and dig out some recommendations to fill your screens this spooky season? If you fancy a bit of 80's gore, some campy comedy or feel like binge-watching a three-part thriller, you've come to the right place.
Halloween III: Season Of The Witch
Halloween III Season Of The Witch is considered the anomaly of the franchise, and to many, the worst of them all. Controversial opinion incoming - I actually think Halloween III was one of the best of the whole bunch. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big Michael Myers fan, but after five or six films with virtually the same outcome, it can get a little tedious to watch.
This film is the only one in the franchise that doesn't feature the big man himself, and all the better for it! If you were wondering, no, it's not set in the same location, and doesn't link back to Haddonfield or the creepy Dr Loomis in any way. It's a completely different kettle of fish.
However, it does have all the right ingredients when it comes to conjuring up a fun 80's horror, including spooky, mischievous antagonists, a catchy theme tune that will get stuck in your head for days, and iconic Halloween masks with an evil twist. What more could you possibly want?
Carrie (1976)
Based on Stephen King's novel 'Carrie', this film is potentially one of the best King adaptations ever made. Some may argue that it's a little dated. Personally, I never get bored of it, and I think many old-school horror fans will agree.
The slow but sinister build up of the plot makes for great suspense, along with those jarring 70's screeches that put me on edge every time. Sissy Spacek's eerie portrayal of Carrie was perfect. Her emotions felt raw and real. Instantly you could see Carrie's weaknesses in the opening scene, which made for some astonishing character development.
The juxtaposition of religion (a psychotic religious mother, to be precise), adolescence, isolation and blood, lots of blood, is guaranteed to create a lasting impression on any horror fan, making Carrie certainly worth a watch this Halloween.
John Carpenter's Prince Of Darkness
Directed by the king of Halloween himself, John Carpenter, Prince Of Darkness is a hidden gem within his portfolio.
The film features cult names in the horror industry, such as Donald Pleasance, known for playing Dr Loomis in the early Halloween franchise films, alongside the one and only Alice Cooper (yes, THAT Alice Cooper, Mr Dead Babies and the brains behind anthems such as 'Poison', 'Hey Stoopid' and the notorious 'School's Out'). The casting here is one to be remembered.
If that's not enough, then how about some classic Carpenter gore, a creepy abandoned church, a mysterious green liquid (also known as 'Satan's spirit') and a bunch of scientists who don't know what they're getting themselves into?
Elvira: Mistress Of The Dark
If you're looking for something a little more comedic and upbeat this Halloween, who better to turn to than Elvira? The iconic 80's horror-host stars in the eponymous film, Elvira: Mistress Of The Dark, where she inherits a run-down, old mansion and disrupts the whole village as she does it.
The film champions Cassandra Peterson's fun, campy style and takes it to a whole new level, in the form of her own Macabre Mobile and exquisite diamante-clad, spider-theme bra. Her classic boob jokes never go amiss, alongside the consistent horror spoofing and witty sarcasm. Mistress Of The Dark is a fantastic option if you're fed up with the blood and guts. Plus, if you love this film, I'd recommend checking out Elvira's Haunted Hills, too.
The Exorcist (1973, Extended Director's Cut)
Ok, this one isn't for the faint hearted, it sure does give you a good scare. The first time I watched The Exorcist, at the ripe old age of 23, I was definitely feeling a little unnerved for the next few days when alone in the dark. Although that's probably just me being a wuss.
This extended version shows us all the terrifying scenes that actually got cut before the film's initial debut in 1973, including the freaky spider-walk sequence on the stairs. There's something about this film that makes it simply terrifying to watch. Even with the slightly comedic 70's after-effects, it really does make you feel uncomfortable.
Undoubtedly, The Exorcist is still one of the scariest horror films of all time, and is a certified screamer for the spooky season. Have fun with this one.
Netflix's Fear Street Trilogy
Admittedly, I'm quite the fan of an old-school 80's horror, if you couldn't already tell. However, there are, of course, hundreds of fantastic modern thrillers just waiting to be discovered.
Recently, I stumbled upon Netflix's very own Fear Street trilogy. As a Stranger Things fan, one of the first things that drew me in was the casting, which includes Maya Hawke and Sadie Sink. Please don't let this fool you, it's not the only appeal.
After watching the first film, I was totally hooked. The foundation of the story revolves around the legend of Sarah Fier, a supposed witch that died from hanging, cursing the town of Shadyside ever since. But all isn't what it seems, and this clever trilogy takes you right back to the beginning.
It features a fantastic mix of action, drama, teenage romance (not in a cheesy way, though) and pure gore that will satisfy any slasher fan. Not to mention the creepy characters that emerge unexpectedly with all sorts of weapons, from axes to baseball bats. The story unfolds in a way you would never expect, making it a must-watch to add to your list this October.