Horror Movies to Watch: Part 4 of 4

Horror Movies to Watch

Part IV: The Excessive

*****

One could argue that this horror sub-genre is the main stylistic source for more modern horror movies, particularly the increasingly ubiquitous "gornos," which are known for being repulsive through the mutilation of the human body. This kind of gore on its own is not my cup of tea; I don't go to movies with the intention of throwing up. Now the term "excessive" is very broad so I will try to elaborate with this: I use "excessive" not as a synonym for "gory," but rather as a stylistic description for the following films. These movies are at times really scary, and at others quite funny - which points out the fine line between horror and comedy - but overall they're all awesome.

*****

The Exorcist

Dir. William Friedkin (1973)

The Exorcist is one of the most famous horror movies of all time, and for a good reason. The memorable (rather grotesque) images are one thing, but the way in which it's brilliantly directed is what sets the movie apart from others. The film's eerie atmosphere, the way in which it constantly keeps us horrified, and the way in which it is actually believable despite its intrinsic unrealism - these aspects are among the many things that make The Exorcist so great.

*****

Carrie

Dir. Brian De Palma (1976)

Based on a Stephen King novel, Carrie tells the story of a girl who is constantly picked on, but then discovers that she has telekinetic powers. To top off a great movie, one particular scene alone - when Carrie's classmates push her past her breaking point - makes Carrie a more than worthwhile watch. The ensuing massacre is one of the best cinematic displays of badassery. Ever.

*****

Suspiria

Dir. Dario Argento (1977)

Blood looks so much crazier in Technicolor. Combine the rich, stylized imagery with a creepy electronic soundtrack that you'll eventually be humming along to, as well as a story filled with the paranormal and the freaky - and you have Suspiria. It's not as scary as it is crazy... well, actually if I could describe this movie in one word, it would be CRAAAAZY, and we'll leave it at that.

*****

The Evil Dead

Dir. Sam Raimi (1981)

This is the first installment in a trilogy of films that started up Sam Raimi's career (he would go on to make the Spiderman movies) and now have a status as cult classics. The first movie is in my opinion the best, starting off as an honestly scary movie, before drifting off into an all-out zombie gorefest - and this kind of gore is awesome gore. The sequels, Evil Dead II and Army of Darkness, are more fun than scary or awesome, but are worth a watch as well.

*****

Videodrome

Dir. David Cronenberg (1983)

David Cronenberg's movies have become a bit less weird as of late, though the raw violence that makes his movies so easily identifiable is still there. Anyway, Videodrome, one of his earlier classics, is so weird that I cannot possibly describe it. The story revolves around a TV program that induces hallucinations, which results in things like the protagonist Max's torso turning into a VCR, his hands into guns, etc. Basically, people see this TV program and insanity ensues.

*****

I hope you have enjoyed this series of recommendations and blurbs, and that more importantly, you might want to go find these movies to watch for the Halloween season!