(2017) The Killing of a Sacred Deer 9/10
The realm in which Yorgos Lanthimos’ films exist, is a unique one and to some, might be stylistically off putting. I like to equate his style of filmmaking to that of Wes Anderson, mostly in that, if you’re not a fan of his previous films, chances are, none of his later ones will change your mind. Barry Keoghan is an absolute standout. His portrayal of Martin was downright chilling. There’s too much to say, great film though.
(2017) The Shape of Water 9/10
The story itself is a whimsical, romantic vision of the original monster films of the 50’s. The character dynamics and ethical quandaries are classic but executed perfectly. Between the darker tones of Michael Shannon’s acting and slightly gory visuals, it really feels like a Disney movie crafted for adults. This film is a piece of art and whether it’s accepted by the horror community or not, it deserves all the praise it’s getting.
(2017) Happy Death Day 7/10
It’s a fun movie that’s self-aware of its faults. Jessica Rothe really sells the whole fucking thing. She’s just really in this shit. Also, yeah, it’s obviously just a horror version of Groundhog Day but goddamn did they cover the initial feelings of insanity perfectly.
(2017) Mom and Dad 7/10
I think for fans of Nic Cage going into this movie looking for him to freak out, you’re going to be very satisfied. Overall, it’s a short and sweet horror that never overstays its welcome. I watched it on a plane ride and it was the perfect amount of entertainment without making me have to think at all.
(2016) The Limehouse Golem 7/10
I’ll just say that the performances and set design were both really strong. Beyond that, the mystery kept me guessing until the end. With the reveal, much like great mysteries, everything seemed somewhat obvious in retrospect. I don’t mean that to imply the films predictability, more so that the detail the foreshadowing was carefully handled.
(1994) Cemetery Man 7.5/10
There’s some technical shit like blended CGI, mismatched prosthetic skin tones and visible wires that should have been hidden. I feel like somehow though, the kind of rough-around-the-edges production lends to the strange fluidity of the story itself. There’s so many scenes that are just stuck in my head at the moment. Soavi crafts these absolute absurd scenarios that are obviously tongue-in-cheek but done so in such a bold and creative fashion.
(1986) The Hitcher 7.5/10
I love this movie. It definitely lives and breathes that 80’s vibe but is still stands out among many similar films. It’s both complex and the simplest predator vs. prey horror film you’ll ever see. It’s tough to describe, just watch it.
(1975) Deep Red 8.5/10
There's a strong argument to be made regarding Deep Red as possibly Argento's finest film to date. Brimming with the complexity and misdirects needed for a true great mystery, Argento delivers us a film so stylistically unique, it's no surprise it took a few decades to cement itself into the classic it exists as today.
(1966) Persona 9.5/10
I can see how some people say this film inspired Robert Altman’s Images but to me, it’s a beast entirely of its own. It’s instantly one of my favorite arthouse-style films of all time. All of the flashing images, cuts and effects are almost unbelievably purposeful. Just 5-minutes of this films would spell pretentiousness but as a whole, it’s a masterpiece.
(1965) Fists in the Pocket 7.5/10
The uncomfortable feeling created in Fists in the Pocket is so subdued and under the radar from the main plot. It’s not unruly sinister but calling this a horror film is by no means a stretch. The technical work is familiar in parts and highly unique in others, albeit always excellent. I really enjoyed this one.
(1964) Blood and Black Lace 7/10
Shots are set up in quick, nicely framed sequences and the set design is full of bold, saturated colors. This is definitely an essential in the Giallo collection and one of Bava’s best.
(1964) Castle of Blood 7/10
Barbara Steele is such a recognizable presence and her face is just fucking weird, I love it though. Castle of Blood is a really nice, moody, atmospheric haunted house film and probably one of the better Italian ones I’ve seen to date.
(1960) Village of the Damned 8/10
Fantastic. This film engages much like any great episode of The Twilight Zone in that familiar eeriness but keeps a creative sci-fi inspired depth. The initial voice-over effects for the children can seem odd at first but that’s very much the point. Wolf Rilla finessed his way through this one with a generally sleek look, smooth camera work and effects that age (almost) timelessly.
(1957) Curse of the Demon 7.5/10
Certain aspects of the ending sequences don’t exactly age gracefully but for the most part, Curse of the Demon remains compelling and creepy. It’s just a really smart film that shows how much tension can be established in a horror film by injecting the right amount of mystery and skepticism.
(1951) Strangers on a Train 8/10
Every scene showing Bruno in the background was super creepy and framed perfectly. The ending is remarkably impressive, some of the best effects out of the early 50’s, period. I’d love to know how the fuck they pulled that one off. Oh, this is also the perfect popcorn movie for a date night. It’s compelling but at the same time, linear, fun and easy to digest.
(1931) M 9/10
Not only is this just an incredible, nearly perfectly made film on just a technical level. It has so much more depth than almost any other film that I’ve seen thus far from this decade. Absolutely fantastic film and a staple in the horror genre with really the first truly dynamic killer that comes to mind.
