Best in Show: Autumnal Scares (Pt. I of II)

Hear that? The fallen leaves crunching under your flip-flops? Well, that's the quickly changing season. Summer is nearly over and for many of us Labor Day is the nail in the coffin. School is back in session, hoodies become a necessity and pools become way too cold. In cinema, films have long used the seasons to set the tone of the movie; capturing the symbols of the time of year and drawing viewers in with those aspects. In fall, it’s often either a film related to Halloween or has plenty of falling leaves, grey skies and dim lighting to signify the months of September until late November. This week's list covers the most autumnal horror films that'll make the season change a little easier.

Note: As this film is more about the beginning of fall and not Halloween, movies explicitly related to the holiday will receive their own list later in the season.

10. Hollow 

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Dimly lit and grey all around, 2011's British import, Hollow, feels perfect for a night in surrounded by blankets. While never fully acknowledging the season - some characters wear shorts, while others opt for sweaters - there's something perpetually cool about the countryside in this film. While maybe not the strongest film, there are plenty of brief scares to instill fear and leave you unsettled. All of this complements autumn feelings as warm candles are placed throughout the film's night scenes giving it an orange glow that'll leave you craving pumpkin.





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9. My Soul to Take

Wes Craven's critically panned slasher film, My Soul to Take, may not have won over viewers and audiences, but its woodsy setting, constantly falling and sweatshirt-wearing students give the film an undeniable sense of September. Craven captures the setting of this film perfectly, and while perhaps some things could be improved on, there is a very clear sense for the time of the year it’s meant to take place during. Letterman jackets abound, My Soul to Take is like the football game-reminder that the change of seasons is upon us.


8. House at the End of the Street 

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Spooky to some, terrible for others; this is the space where we find films like House at the End of the Street. While many would argue there's plenty to pull from this twisted mystery-thriller, others would argue that its best meant unwatched. However, disregarding the films quality, this movie will definitely make you ready for the changing season. Whether Jennifer Lawrence's character is taking long walks home or peering into the woods around her house, the dampness of the movie and the fact that she's beginning classes at a new school all lend themselves to a feeling of fall.

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7. It Follows

Between beaches and a few scenes in a pool, it may be possible to confuse It Follows as a summer set movie. But, as if it took place during Labor Day itself, viewers will notice the cool lighting and colors, flannel-adorning characters and general sense of summers end. It's impossible to mistake: It Follows is a tale that comes with the fall. This movie seems like the perfect lead in to the season of changing leaves and long pants. The hues and lighting, the crispness of the atmosphere and the scenes taking place in the school all make for an experience that'll undeniably set you in the mood for pumpkins lattes and scarves. You know, if you're into that sort of thing.

6. The Woman in Black 

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Maybe meant more for the future Halloween movie list, maybe not. But, The Woman in Black includes everything you could think of from nostalgic autumn weather. Dark hues, cooling weather and period clothing reminiscent of fall, This film, like many time period pieces before it, has an air of nostalgia that just about anyone can connect with; whether or not you were alive. And, what works in tandem together better than reminiscing and fall? Nothing. That's the answer. While Christmas brings the thoughts of joys of Christmas past, autumn often brings such nostalgia of coziness and sweaters that it’s impossible to ignore.  

Review: Ghost House

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Shipping a horror movie to a foreign land can open up the door to a lot of criticism. After all, taking opportunity in the use of others culture, if done so improperly and without accurate depiction and research, is disrespectful and rarely accomplishes its goals. These movies, blinded by their own ambition to create something mystical and dark, fail to have the foresight to make something worthy of using another country as a setting. Following this trend is the inappropriate and worst of all disinteresting Ghost House.


Following a couple on vacation in Thailand, Ghost House has everything you'd expect from a travel abroad horror movie that attempts to capture some supernatural element of a foreign land. From strange rituals to unhelpful and odd locals, the couple gets more than they bargain for when the woman stumbles upon and is possessed by a ghoul. The film stars Scout Taylor-Compton (The Runaways) and James Landry Hebert (Westworld) as Julie and Jim, the couple central to the movie's plot. Mark Boone Junior (Batman Begins) plays Reno, some sort of helpful mystic, and Michael S. New (Crazy Medicine) plays the couples driver, Gogo.


Whether it’s the screechy broken English and lack of self-awareness exuded by every character outside of the main couple or the unfortunately sole instance suggesting that the couple may be neglectful of their views and disrespectful of the foreign land they've entered, Ghost House does little to improve on critically planned films like The Other Side of the Door or Out of the Dark. While it’s a similar film, the redeemable qualities of the aforementioned movies are all but missing from the terribly done, offensively exploitative plot of Ghost House. Its portrayal of Thai people is absolutely unforgiving and the film’s most egregious aspect, but not its only.


Ghost House isn't simply offensive in its setting - mystifying and otherizing Thai culture - it’s also gravely offensive in its cheap ploys and poorly timed scares. Ghost House lacks any of the charm that similarly bad movies have; the characters are unlikeable, the tension is nonexistent and worst of all, the film never gets scary. Each scene plays through with some brief instances where a scare would begin, only to become jolty and poorly done.


While you could pick out pieces from this jumbled mess, like some mediocre camera work, there truly isn't anything to look twice at. From the casual, overly awkward mention of a ghost house to some strangely inserted supporting characters, the film feels poorly put together; its stitching ripping apart from the get-go. Ghost House, like its flat, unenthused title, is exactly as plain as it sounds. Its harsh depiction of a foreign land, schlocky plot and lackluster scares all culminate into something best avoided.  3 out of 10.

Review: The Transfiguration

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Since Twilight snatched the vampire subgenre, it’s been difficult to find serious, incredible horror movies about bloodsuckers. While a movie like What We Do in the Shadows gave fans some of what they crave, the film was most definitely a comedy. Even 30 Days of Night, while terrifying, did little to give faith to the subgenre's legs. Revival seems far off, but for those needing a fix, The Transfiguration should do just the trick.


The Transfiguration is a simple, odd feature grounded in reality, but dark to its core. Following a troubled youth with a pension for blood-sucking, this movie is a chaotic spiral and portrayal of mental health, loss and trauma. Milo is in a bad situation; recently recovering from the loss of his mother and working to make ends meet with an admittedly young, immature brother. He meets another social outcast named Sophie, and together, their odd personalities mesh and coagulate into something more disturbing and out-of-touch. The Transfiguration stars young up-and-comers Eric Ruffin (The Good Wife) and Chloe Levine (The OA) as Milo and Sophie, respectively.


This movie is very obviously an indie. It’s a quiet and bubbling slow burn with an eerie and simplistic soundtrack to boot. The Transfiguration may not be the easiest thing for fans of more straight forward horror to devour, but both Ruffin and Levin are terrific. The pair - while fresh - play their roles perfectly; working in tandem to draw viewers into their budding friendship with dreadful precision. There is something so deeply unsettling about the movie's suspense. Even in its quietness, audiences will suspect the film's tension and the badness that'll stem from its characters decisions.


It may feel a little liberal to call The Transfiguration a horror movie, but it should be acknowledged as such. It's got some troubling, devilish moments that cut through its more drama-based plot, and when the viciousness does happen, it comes with such force it’s hard to deny the film's horror-fueled heart. The Transfiguration is a beautiful, but obviously grim coming-of-age film; its character-driven storyline giving viewers a point-of-view that'll leave them in despair, rather than in satisfaction at their concluding story. 6 out of 10.

Best in Show: Clingy Foes (Pt. II of II)



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4. Obsessed Beyoncé in a horror movie? Yes. Before the bat-swinging vengeful Beyoncé of Lemonade, she was playing the equally vengeful mother and wife of a man who attacks the unwanted attention of stalker Lisa, played by the especially starling Ali Larter. This movie is entertaining purely based on the insanity of Lisa and the eventual melodramatic confrontation between Beyoncé's Sharon and her. This movie isn't scary, but it is fun. Idris Elba's Derek is perfect in his role as the trapped victim of Lisa's games. Whether at work or on a trip, he can't escape her.


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3. Misery

In perhaps one of the most iconic obsession films, the Stephen King original finds Kathy Bates in one of her biggest roles. As an obsessed reader and self-proclaimed "number one fan" of fictional author Paul Sheldon, Bates' Annie is a terrifying control freak and stalker. So obsessed with the writer that she attempts to keep him for herself, Annie forged the way for future characters like hers. From spoofs to music videos, Misery left a lasting mark on pop culture. Misery is a dreary film that finds chaos in fandoms. It’s the type of film that is especially poignant in today's celebrity-obsessed culture where fans, "stans" and trolls engross themselves and harass famous people as if they're their best friends or their worst enemy. In fact, Misery now, feels ahead of its time.



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2. The Gift

Entering this film with little outside knowledge of it is the best way to become fully enveloped in the twisting plot of The Gift. Deeply unsettling and grossly underrated, The Gift follows the arrival of a mysterious man from a husband's past as he interjects himself in the couple's lives. All isn't as it seems though, and by the movie's climax, this obsession story featuring gifts left on doorsteps becomes an engulfing experience that'll leave you stunned. Without saying more, as not to give away all this film holds, The Gift is a troubling must-see.

 

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1. Orphan

In terms of commitment, nothing will ever reach the levels of insanity that is Esther from Orphan. By far one of the most legendary movies to come out of modern horror, the film's infamous twist paired with compelling performances by horror maven Vera Farmiga and up-and-comer Isabelle Fuhrman made audiences shriek. Orphan is one of those movies that "goes there;" completely unafraid of what its reception would be. Esther's obsession with the father, and well, her past fathers, is next level. The film's finale reveal brings on major creep vibes and whether you think you're a clingy person or not, chances are you'll realize you're not that level of obsessed. While movies like it have come before and will surely follow, Orphan deserves this spot of infamy.

Best in Show: Clingy Foes (Pt. I of II)

While often trashy, horror movies featuring an obsessive stalker can often be the most fun to watch. Plenty of cheesy, over-the-top and gratuitous films have been met by panning critics and fans that, while acknowledging the films' flaws, ate these movies and their trashy ridiculousness up. Movies about obsession are never the scariest, but they definitely are worth-watching and trashing surrounded by friends. This week's list observes the best horror movies to watch when you're feeling a little obsessive. If you resonate with any of these characters, chances are you've gone too far.




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8. The Roommate 

Perhaps one of the trashiest films to come out of the mid-2000s/early 2010s, The Roommate is every students worst nightmare. Making last week's list of best college horror films, The Roommate stars Leighton Meester as college freshman with sinister intentions. After moving into her room and meeting roommate Sara, Meester's Rebecca becomes very committed to their friendship. Beginning with the tiniest levels of copycatting and moving up the scale rather quickly, Rebecca covers a lot of ground; getting tattoos, killing small animals and eventually, going after people. The Roommate is the type of movie every college freshman should watch, if not to learn lessons, then simply to scare them.

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7. No Good Deed

Equal parts home invasion as it is obsession thriller, No Good Deed treads water a little more than it should, but at its core is a story that'll scare. Featuring a woman home alone with her two children and a stranger who comes knocking at her door, this movie is havoc and dark. While flawed in many ways, the on-screen command of stars Taraji P. Henson and Idris Elba are enough to make the movie feel worth it. Not only does it make the intentions of strangers more suspect, this movie will leave you checking your locks.



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6. Prom Night (2008) Loosely remade from the 1980 original, Prom Night follows Donna, a high school senior who witnessed her entire family murdered by an obsessed teacher as she prepares for prom. Like any great slasher, Prom Night features plenty of blood, lust and unsettling atmosphere.  Prom Night is best reserved for slumber parties and group get-togethers as you and your friends discuss the creepiest of teachers at your school or from your childhood because, let’s face it, every school has one. Even though this movie is extremely conventional, Prom Night is the perfect, trashy romp of a stalker film.
 

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5. P2

Nothing says Christmas spirit like getting locked in a parking garage by a security guard hell-bent on making you his lover. P2 is the often overlooked obsessive stalker flick that fans of the subgenre need to see. Easily one of the most unsettling stalker films around, this movie features a main villain so impossibly blinded by his obsession that it’s terrifying. Wes Bentley is incredible. His ability to make the character a horrifying stalker without being comical is fresh and incredible. He is a true scene stealer that viewers will love to hate.

The Overlook: Faults

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There are plenty of films revolving around cults. From documentaries to dramas to the subgenre of horror, these movies often resolve around a disturbing cult with sinister intentions and devote followers. Less funny and more disturbing, movies following cults are often dark and feature upsetting endings. That's not the case with 2014's under the radar film, Faults.

More a dark comedy with horror elements, Faults follows an expert on cults and mind control tasked with breaking a daughter from a dangerous cult named Faults. While attempting to deprogram the young woman, the expert begins questioning his game and things take a turn for the unsettling. Directed by Riley Stearns (The Cub), Faults - while continuously tinged with a lighter air, becomes scary and by its close, will leave viewers more stunned than anything else. The movie stars Leland Orser (Saving Private Ryan) as Ansel Roth, the mind control expert, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead (10 Cloverfield Lane) plays Claire, the woman mysteriously tied to the omnipresent cult group. The cast is rounded out with Chris Ellis (Catch Me If You Can) and Beth Grant (The Office) as Claire's parents.

Taking place mostly in a secluded hotel room, Faults makes the most of its odd ball characters and their troubling quirks. Orser's Ansel is an indebted failure coping with a failed career, Winstead's Claire is simple and quiet; she is particularly spectacular, often using a cold, blank stare to command scenes, and Ellis and Grant both play their roles as overly protective parents well. As noted, Winstead controls the flow of the majority of the movie. She's a commanding presence who carries everything on her back, only assisted by the more dialogue-heavy Orser and the others.

From the get-go, despite all of its subtle comedy, something is deeply discomforting in the film. Things begin coming too easy for Ansel and when supernatural elements begin infusing to the storyline, the horror of the film becomes central, Without giving much away, this twisting film will intrigue viewers- that's a promise. Faults does suffer from some genre-mixing crises, but by the film's end, it knows exactly where it wants to end up.  In fact, it gets there with such precision, you'll be able it ignore the inconsistencies.

In Defense: Annabelle



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In reviews for the latest installment in the growing universe of The Conjuring, critics (including myself) have been quick to mark Annabelle: Creation as a much needed divergence away from 2014's Annabelle. Despite being a direct prequel that notably doesn't ignore the original, Annabelle: Creation reviews have consistently and with some good reasons, mentioned Annabelle and all its flaws. But, for all of its clunky misdirection and overly stale conventions, the first of what could be many spin-offs, Annabelle is deserving of a second watch.

Far better than it’s been lamented to be, Annabelle follows the Gordon's shortly after husband John picks up a very recognizable doll from a thrift store for his pregnant wife, Mia. After bringing the doll into the home strange things begin to happen and, after the murder of their neighbors by as satanic cult, they decide to move to the city. Things obviously don't slow down there and like many horror movies, the results are typical, but in many scenes, terrifying. Annabelle stars Ward Horton (Pure Genius) as John and Annabelle Wallis (Come and Find Me) as Mia. Tony Amendola (The Mask of Zoro) and Alfre Woodard is also featured as Evelyn, a neighbor and book shop owner with knowledge of the occult, and Father Perez, respectively.

Annabelle isn't perfect by any means. There are quite a few flaws that are worth noting. From the stale portrayal of a mystic minority character at the hands of Woodard to some really old horror scares that are less terrifying and more tepid, Annabelle deserves criticism. While Woodard herself is great in the film, her character is a disservice. Jump scares are also really overly placed throughout making it difficult to focus on the movie's plot itself. Plus, and perhaps most notably, through all of its sleek graphics and camerawork, the gleaming feeling of Annabelle leaves the movie feeling rather insincere. Sure you could figure out the play-by-play of the movie, but the greatest offense of Annabelle is its complete lack of personality. Rigid set design, although set in a time period, feel completely fabricated and the movie seems most worried about the industry's bottom line - making money.

But, writing off Annabelle completely is neglectful. While typical, Annabelle has multiple scenes that carry enough scares and tension to lift this movie up. That - paired with Annabelle Wallis' fantastic turn as a mother trying to adjust her life in the face of supernatural woes, more than compensate for the dead weight in this film. In fact, the storage room scene where Mia gets trapped in a basement and frights come out in waves is perhaps one of the scariest parts in modern horror to date. There are also the opening scenes in the young couple’s home that set the stage for what could have been an even better movie. Even if it later dismantles, these scenes are incredibly tense and well executed.

Overall, it’s not so much that Annabelle isn't deserving of criticism, it’s that the harsh words flung at this movie put it on an unfounded level. This is no Rings or Bye Bye Man. Annabelle has some horrifying parts. It has an amazing cast who all make the best of their roles, as well as some well-shot scenes that capture the dread felt by the characters. Annabelle isn't as good as it could have been and isn't as good as Creation, but it definitely shouldn't be ignored.

Review: Annabelle: Creation

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For what feels like years, talk of cinematic universes seemed to only revolve around superhero movies and explosive sci-fi franchises. But, proving caped crusaders wrong is the work of James Wan and the flourishing world of The Conjuring. From the original film to the successful sequel and the critically berated Annabelle, the future of The Conjuring is proving to have longer legs than anyone thought. Spin-offs, including The Nun and The Crooked Man, and a third installment of the original storyline all are planned. And, with the release of Annabelle: Creation just last week, The Conjuring universe has been placed back into critics good graces.

Annabelle: Creation follows a couple who, after the death of their daughter, provide refuge to a girl's orphanage. One of the young girls finds a doll- yes, the doll - and everything quickly unravels. As with any horror film, moving into the house proves to be a terrifying time for all; featuring plenty of bumps in the night, dark hallways and plenty of horrifying moments. Featuring many budding stars and a few veterans, Annabelle: Creation offers a pretty stunning cast of varying ages and generations. Annabelle Creation stars Anthony LaPaglia (Without a Trace) and Miranda Otto (What Lies Beneath) as the parents of the recently deceased Bee, played by Samara Lee (Concussion). Lulu Wilson (Ouija: Origin of Evil) plays Linda, the headstrong, caring friend of the polio-inflicted Janice, played by Talitha Eliana Bateman (Geostorm). The film also stars Stephanie Sigman (Spectre) as the girls' caretaker, Sister Charlotte, Grace Fulton (Badland) and Philippa Couthard (The Catch) as older girls, Carol and Nancy, and Tayler Buck (American Crime Story) and Lou Lou Safran (The Choice) as other orphans.

It's important to note each of the cast due to the fact that they're all fantastic. Even for smaller parts, actresses like Fulton and Couthhard provide a certain depth to the film and make characters that may do bad things, but aren't deserving of the horrors they encounter. What'll come as a shock to no one, however, is young scream queen Wilson, who plays the somewhat awkward, but kind and engaging Linda.

Is Annabelle: Creation as incredible as James Wan's first two creations? Maybe not. But clearly the franchise is in good hands. Director David Sandberg (Lights Out) tosses the franchise's latest back into the hyper-stylized world created by James Wan and even though the scares may not be as heart-stopping, they're still plenty gripping. Parting ways with the somewhat gleaming and more mainstream Annabelle for the better, Creation recovers all that was lost from the critically panned spin-off. Sure, there are some scares that align too closely to the gimmicks already used by the universe's older installments, but the fear factor never feels stale. Sandberg perfect captures moments of silence and pairs them with tense atmospheric music and scoring.

Annabelle: Creation accomplishes exactly what it meant to do: scare and stun. Whether it be in the shape of a scarecrow, eyes in the darkness or, of course, the doll central to it all, this film realigns The Conjuring universe with the path that won so many over in the beginning. Annabelle: Creation is a blast of nostalgia. For fans of horror, there are more than enough terrifying moments to satisfy as well as some great characters to care about. 7 out of 10.

Best in Show: Horror Goes to College (Pt. II of II)

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5. Black Christmas Despite its flaws, the yuletide horror film, Black Christmas, is iconic. Even with its clunky remake, the slasher-in-a-sorority-house horror movie provided some much needed terror to a holiday so typically jolly. From terrifying phone calls to the sisters to some intense deaths scenes, Black Christmas may be a dated product, but it’s definitely worth the watch. Forewarning though, any college student that has hung around their off-campus housing during breaks probably should avoid this movie, lest they be afraid to turn the lights off at night.

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4. The Blair Witch Project/The Green Inferno What do The Blair Witch Project and Green inferno have in common? Practically nothing. One has become a legendary success, while the other remains a somewhat indie film on the fringe of popularity. But, both feature a collection of students out in the field doing the work they believe in. In The Blair Witch Project, a group of film students travel into the forest near Burkittsville, Maryland and become entrapped in a psychological prison of endless foliage and chaotic directions. Here, the students, who quickly lose the resolve to complete their project, come face to face with an impending sense of dread. In The Green Inferno, a group of social justice warriors heading to protect the rainforest and its native tribes get more than they bargained for after a plane crash. Both films capitalize on the very real blind courage propelled by youth and the dumb decisions young people make as a result. Was it a good idea to travel deep into woods in the middle of fall, with little reinforcement that'd help you be found? Probably not. Was it an equally bad idea to follow a group into unknown lands to do some dangerously grassroots protesting? Sure the intentions may have been better, but the decision is one I'm sure the characters of The Green Inferno wish they hadn't made.

3. Sorority Row 

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Sorority Row will never receive an A in class if you know what I mean. It's the type of movie that offers little depth, but makes up for it in sloshing deaths, iconic one-liners and great characters. Like Urban Legend, but far superior, Sorority Row  has such a strong ensemble it’s hard not to fall in love with this movie based on the script for the 80s flick, The House on Sorority Row. Featuring an indelible role courtesy of Carrie Fischer, who plays housemother Mrs. Crenshaw, Sorority Row piles the icing on its shallow cake.  It has amazing death sequences, a completely nutty killer and by the films end, those who knew what they were getting into will be entirely satisfied.

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3. Kristy

Like Girl House, Kristy is an easily forgotten film that really shouldn't be missed. By far one of the scarier indie films out there, the filmmakers make the most of their thinly conceptualized story following a girl hunted down on her empty campus. Like an expanded The Strangers, Kristy features incredibly tense and horrifying moments, masks that'll make you deepen into your seat and a lead character who'll win you over. This movie brings you along the entire campus that proves to be quite isolated during a Thanksgiving recess. Kristy should not go unseen. It's an action-packed thriller with plenty of scares and fierce moments to enthrall even the most desensitized viewer.

1. Scream 2 

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While the original Scream made high school students, well, scream, the follow up to the massively successful slasher, Scream 2 followed our survivors to a different locale; this time, a college campus. By far one of the best horror sequels around, Scream 2 builds the mythology of Ghostface as we meet a new killer and some new kills, all while witnessing the growth of a heroin in Sidney Prescott. Scream 2 makes full use of its expansive setting; perfectly capturing the ins-and-outs of the winding corridors, large lecture halls and basement facilities that make universities so unsettling. Scream 2 showcases just how lonely a populated campus can be- how even surrounded by peers and professors, a yell (or scream) for help, is more like a tree falling in the woods.

Best in Show: Horror Goes to College (Pt. I of II)

With the return to college right around the corner for many students and the release of this fall's Happy Death Day getting an increasing amount of buzz, the college-horror subgenre is one that can't be ignored. While many of these movies have felt thinly scripted and acted, often exasperated by one note girls in bikini's and jocks getting butchered, the fact is that these movies are pure, cheap entertainment. They're some of the most over-the-top films around, but are fun through and through. And, when one is released that is actually scary, the results are bone-chilling. This week's list looks at the best horror movies set on a college campus.

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10. Friend Request

The release of Friend Request has been tumultuous. And, for all of the distributors’ troubles, the payoff probably won't be great. Filled with problematic displays of mental illness, mediocre acting and some odd plot choices, Friend Request isn't the most impressive movie. But with a collection of really great tense moments and scares, Friend Request deserves a spot on this list. For those who haven't even heard of this film, but have more than likely seen "coming soon" trailers at different points over its near-yearlong struggle to find a wide release, Friend Request follows a college student who gets entangled with a disturbed student with some truly dark spirits within.

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9. The Roommate

During the late-2000s and the beginning of the 2010s, a slew of trashy, lowbrow horror movies came out. Capturing the attention of a young audience, films like 2011's The Roommate glistened with teen spirit and young adult flavor. Despite their flaws, these movies are insane romps. The Roommate was such an unsettling endeavor that, while ridiculous in every way, could be devoured easily. Whether shoving a cat in a dryer or getting matching tattoos Leighton Meesters ' Rebecca was the type of character viewers could love to hate.  

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8. Urban Legend

Despite its cheese and all of its late-1990s glory, Urban Legend has plenty of cheap jump scares and despicably amusing characters to make it worth watching. Not even its marred execution can overcome its relatively strong concept and while it'll continue to age terribly, fans of simple slasher will find plenty to love. Despite not being ancient, it definitely feels like nostalgia; from its dated furnishings and awkward haircuts, to iconic stars of the era like Tara Reid, Rebecca Gayheart and Jared Leto starring in the film, Urban Legends is a movie best viewed surrounded by friends who probably won't take it very seriously, but will appreciate it as a great throwback.

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7. Cry_Wolf 

It's fair to point out that Cry_Wolf doesn’t actually take place on a college campus or even feature college-age students. However, with a preparatory school setting that's far more akin to a university than say, a community college of commuters, it practically qualifies. At some point, Cry_Wolf became widely forgotten. Often left off of slasher lists and mid-2000s horror iconography, Cry_Wolf is a thrilling and dark film following a group of students who play a game similar to Mafia, except when one night, their game takes a sharp turn toward real life.



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6. Girl House

In terms of lesser known horror films, you'd be hard-pressed to not include 2014's Girl House. Seldom seen, but ultimately great, this horror-thriller follows a woman in desperate need of money for college. She joins a house that provides X-rated content for the internet in exchange for money, but when a crazed fan attempts to find her, things get out of hand. A sleek and surprisingly terrifying film, Girl House is obsession-stalker film that'll scare you away from the internet. It's a dark and twisted movie that slowly builds before completely destroying everything in its path. If you're in college wondering what you'd do for free tuition, Girl House may make you think twice about your options.

The Overlook: Burning Bright

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You ever sit down, watch a movie, dislike the movie, but see it all the way through because of the passive enjoyment you received from it? That's pretty much the situation for Burning Bright; a film, that like many animal attack films before it is good entertainment, even if it’s a bad movie. Whereas, a movie like Backcountry is simultaneously good stylistically and story wise as it is thrilling entertainment, Burning Bright is only worthwhile under the pretense that you probably won't care so much. The choices made by filmmakers, including the problematic use of a son with autism, won't win any points in class or tact, but there's something still so enjoyable at the core of the B-horror Burning Bright.


Currently streaming no Shudder, Burning Bright follows a financially struggling sister and brother and their absentee step-father-turned-guardian as they - quite literally - get caught up in a cat-and-mouse game with a tiger during a hurricane. The film stars bon a fide scream queen, Briana Evigan (Sorority Row) as Kelly Taylor a college-hopeful who feels trapped taking care of her sibling after her mom's death, Charlie Tahan (I Am Legend) as Tom Taylor, the brother with autism, and Garret Dillahunt (Deadwood), as Johnny, the worthless step-father without a care.

Trapped in the house without a place to go, Burning Bright makes the most of its confined spaces. From the get-go, it's pretty obvious who released the big cat from its cage and fair warning: the horror portion of the film doesn't begin until 30 minutes in, but this movie offers enough bang in its tiny package to make something fans of the subgenre will like. Additionally, fans of Evigan will be pleasantly surprised to see that, once again, she's able to hold some of the film's flaws on her back. She's a proven force in the genre and despite all of the movie's dated-feel, can make it seem just as good in a world of slicker, more accomplished films.

Perhaps it is the level of escapism presented by Burning Bright that makes it so watchable. Viewers won't be able to help thinking what they would do in a similar, although ridiculous, situation. One particular scene, where Kelly is trapped in a laundry room provides some terrific tension and perfectly captures this level of simulative thinking.

Will you love Burning Bright? Chances are, honestly, no. But, what you get is what you pay for and for a film like this; it’s definitely a find worth some value. Evigan's Kelly is great and Dillahunt's terrible role is just as fulfilling. The gratification alone, given by the somewhat predictable and comical ending, while cheap, is definitely amazing and it’s hard not to be enthralled by all the happenings in Burning Bright.

Review: 68 Kill

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Grit and gore; two words that make for a pretty wild ride in the world of horror - or at least should. In the best cases, movies that fully embrace gratuitous violence, tap into some shock comedy and make the most of their bottom line, can be amazing little cult films. Films like last year's Green Room prove just how special these cinematic moments can be. In the worst cases, these movies are unbearable foolishness in the worst way. Luckily, IFC Midnight's latest, 68 Kill is more so the prior.  


Written and directed by Trent Haaga (Deadgirl), 68 Kill follows a financially struggling couple who attempt to steal from girlfriend Liza's sugar daddy. In the process, Chip, Liza's girlfriend, realizes just how untamed his wild girlfriend truly is. As the film progresses and the body count rises, 68 Kill becomes a wild ride in low-income suburbia. With plenty of players in the game, Liza and Chips uphill battle becomes even more tumultuous.


69 Kill stars a particularly strong performance by Matthew Gray Gubler (Criminal Minds) and equally as strong, and definitely more terrifying one, courtesy of AnnaLynne McCord (90210) as Chip and Liza. Alisha Boe (Split) is also featured as a witness to the eventual murder of the sugar daddy, and Sheila Vand (A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night), plays a trashy convenience store clerk with her eyes on the prize. These two young stars are powerhouses in a film that offers a fair share of distraction and comedic ploys.


The best thing working for 68 Kill is its willingness to go off the edge. Despite its faltering moments of silliness, this movie offers plenty of comically intense fun. From a scene that so casually announces that Liza's brother has a pension for dismembering young women to the constant and quite literally skull-bashing, 68 Kill never blinks. It isn't nearly as stylistic or polished as the critically acclaimed Green Room, but for fans of that movie, they can expect a similar experience. Its aggressive, unrelenting, but never loses a sense of lightheartedness.


Overall, 68 Kill is more than watchable. It's a romp of a good time and despite some questionably on-the-nose moments that feel almost too off-center, 68 Kill never loses site of its product. The actors are at some of their best, the characters are some of the most daring and while maybe some parts may feel one-note, the result as a whole is particularly entertaining. 6 out 10.

The Overlook: Demonic

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A recent trend in horror movies is uniting criminal investigations to exorcisms. Movies like The Exorcism of Emily Rose and Deliver Us from Evil and Fox's The Exorcist TV series paired cops and detectives with ongoing or aftermath discoveries of butchered victims, occult symbols and often, a couple survivors. While sometimes repetitive, these movies and shows offer fresh takes on humans interacting with demons and the devil. That's why 2015's Demonic is worth a watch.

Recently added to Netflix, Demonic follows a group of friends who enter a haunted house and get more than they bargain for. Alongside these flashbacks are a detective and psychologist attempting to solve the eventual massacre of the teens. Demonic stars Maria Bello (Secret Window) and Frank Grillo (Warrior) as psychologist Elizabeth Klein and Detective Mark Lewis, respectively. Cody Horn (End of Watch), Dustin Milligan (Schitt's Creek), Scott Mechlowicz (EuroTrip) and Megan Park (What If) play the group of teens, with Milligan starring as troubled young man with disturbing dreams. His character John, Horn's Michelle and Mechlowicz's Bryan are the only remaining members of the party upon the police's arrival.

Demonic has a lot of flaws. From some shaky acting from supporting characters to some mediocre story points, there's a lot to criticize. But at its center, there's still something entertaining about this movie. Milligan is absolutely fantastic as the central character and possible murderer - even if his character has some inconsistencies. Had the filmmakers left him more solemn throughout, rather than give him some jokey moments, his character would be even more solidified.

Additionally, the nonchronological storyline, while interesting comes with its own host of issues. Most importantly, the aftermath scenes are far more entertaining than the typical and at times, overly conventional teens-exploring-a-haunted-house ones. But, while this film could have fallen completely into the waste basket, these later scenes mostly focusing on Bello's and Grillo's characters provide plenty of buffers. Both Bello and Grillo bring a heightened level of acting to some of the weaker characters and cast.

This movie isn't perfect. But, in a constant craving for more, horror fans can rest assured that empty space will be filled. It's a movie that revels in its basic functions, but provides enough jump scares and star power to drive it home. Demonic is a great choice for a casual afternoon, even if not necessarily a horror-filled night.

 

 

 

Best in Show: Aging Classics (Pt. II of II)



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5. Aliens (1986)
Like Alien, but with even greater crowd appeal, this sequel seems destined to stand the test of time. While packed with more action and intense explosion, Aliens is a horror film with older effects, which seem masterful even in the modern world of CGI. The creatures within are scary, the cast is, once again great, and everything about this film works for a modern audience. Aliens doesn't really recreate its machine, but it definitely builds upon it and takes advantage of every advancing effect it can.





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4. The Exorcist (1973)

The Exorcist is perhaps the most famous horror movie of all time and for good reason. With insane head spins and horrifying tongues, as well as numerous jump scares, it’s a movie that is still relevant today. Sure the split pea soup vomit and gritty camera work make The Exorcist feel a little dated, but there are enough scares and some terrific acting - courtesy of a particularly fantastic Linda Blair (Born Innocent) and Ellen Burstyn (Requiem for a Dream) - that The Exorcist is compelling enough, even in the modern context. The trying struggles of a mother and daughter attempting to overcome the devil is harrowing and timeless.

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3. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

There's something about slasher films that allow them to transcend time. While some blood splatter and off acting may not translate well to the modern context, it seems that these movies are capable of appealing to even the most freshman of audiences. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is one of the best. Regardless of some grotesquely over-the-top slicing and dicing, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is one of those scary movies that'll make even the most seasoned horror fan afraid of backcountry fields and the desolate families who live there.  

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2. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

While still relatively young in the grand scheme, The Silence of the Lambs is often regarded as a horror classic. Pushing the boundary into modern horror, the early 90s film may border on drama, but the fact is, The Silence of the Lambs is most definitely horror. Whether you're afraid of cannibalism or the dark, this movie brims with scares. The night vision scene where an unsuspecting Clarice attempts to find Buffalo Bill amongst heaping messes and furniture is incredibly tense, regardless of the year this film came out. The Silence of the Lambs is deserving of a spot on this list, regardless of its release because it’s often clumped in with much older films.



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1. Jaws (1975)

Jaws is the movie that scared a generation out of the water. What this quote doesn't account for is just how many generations Jaws would actually inspire fear in. To this day, many of the people - old and young - who have seen Jaws are still afraid of ocean waters. Jaws is, without a doubt, one of the most transcendent horror films ever. It could be watched today or tomorrow and the shark central to it would still feel believably deadly. While plenty have come after it, no shark movie can or will ever be quite as terrifying as Jaws. Even as its iconic soundtrack has gone on to become one of the most joked about, hearing it in the film is still a terrifying experience. Jaws is perfect for any time of the year, any year, for all years.