Category: Film Review

🎃 How to Create the Perfect Halloween Horror Film Night

Leave a comment

There’s something magical about crisp October air, flickering candles, and the thrill of a good scare. Halloween isn’t just about costumes and candy—sometimes, the best way to celebrate is a cozy night in with your favorite people, a killer snack spread, and a lineup of horror films that will have you double-checking your locks.

Ready to scream (and snack) your way through the season? Here’s how to host the perfect Halloween horror movie night—from creepy cocktails to scream-worthy setups.

🕯️ Set the Spooky Vibe

You want your space to feel like a haunted house meets cozy cabin. Here’s how to get there:

Lighting:

  • Turn off overheads—stick with string lights, candles (real or LED), and dim lamps.
  • Bonus points for flickering flame-effect bulbs or black lights.

Decor:

  • Use faux cobwebs, plastic spiders, and creepy cloth on surfaces.
  • Scatter mini pumpkins, skulls, and a few vintage horror books or VHS tapes.
  • Play ambient Halloween sounds or a horror movie soundtrack before the film starts.

Seating:

  • Pile up blankets, floor pillows, and cozy throws.
  • Use a projector for that drive-in feel, or make the living room your makeshift theater.

🍿 Build a Sinister Snack Spread

Savory:

  • “Mummy” hot dogs wrapped in crescent dough
  • Witch’s cauldron popcorn (add pretzels, candy corn, and chocolate chips)
  • Cheese board with “monster claws” (cheese wedges + almond slivers)

Sweet:

  • Caramel apples or apple slices with spooky toppings
  • Halloween sugar cookies or bloody red velvet cupcakes
  • Gummy worms crawling out of chocolate pudding cups

Drinks:

  • Bloody Shirley Temples (grenadine + Sprite + cherries)
  • Witch’s Brew Punch with dry ice
  • For adults: Black vodka cocktails, mulled wine, or themed drinks in blood bags or potion bottles

Set it all out buffet-style so guests can graze between gasps.

🎬 Choose Your Scare Level

Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or easily spooked, curate your lineup based on the vibe you want:

👻 Light & Fun (for scaredy cats):

  • Hocus Pocus
  • Beetlejuice
  • The Addams Family
  • Coraline

🩸 Classic & Creepy:

  • The Shining
  • Psycho
  • Scream
  • Halloween (1978)

😱 Full-On Terror (viewer discretion advised):

  • Hereditary
  • The Conjuring
  • It Follows
  • The Babadook

Hot tip: Start with something light and build up to the scream-fests as the night goes on.

🎭 Dress Code = Optional, but Fun

Encourage guests to wear:

  • Pajamas or cozy horror merch
  • Full costumes (if you’re extra)
  • Halloween colors (black, orange, purple, blood red)

Award a prize for “Best Dressed” or “Most Likely to Die First in a Horror Movie.”

🕸️ Bonus Touches

  • Photo corner: Set up a Halloween-themed photo booth with props
  • Printable bingo cards: Create horror movie trope bingo to play during the films
  • DIY survival kits: Mini goodie bags with popcorn, candy, tissues, and glow sticks

🧡 Final Thoughts

The perfect Halloween horror film night is all about atmosphere, great snacks, and the thrill of getting scared with people you love. Whether you’re watching through your fingers or laughing at your friend’s terrified shrieks, the goal is simple: make memories that haunt you in the best way.

So dim the lights, cue the creepy music, and hit play… if you dare. 👀

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Re-Animator 4K 40th Anniversary Edition: A Bloody, Hilarious Must-Have

Leave a comment

I recently got my hands on the Re-Animator 40th Anniversary 4K release, and it absolutely lives up to the hype—this is exactly why collecting physical media is still so rewarding. Not only is the film a cult classic, but this special edition is packed with extras that make it a collector’s dream.

The release includes two discs featuring both the Unrated and Integral cuts, along with a ton of bonus features that dig deep into the film’s production, legacy, and impact. It’s more than just a movie—it’s a full-on celebration of Re-Animator and its place in horror history. If you’re a fan, this edition is well worth adding to your shelf.

As for the movie itself? Re-Animator (1985) is a wild, blood-soaked ride that perfectly blends horror and hilarity. Directed by Stuart Gordon and loosely based on a story by H.P. Lovecraft, it follows the delightfully mad Herbert West, a medical student who develops a serum that brings the dead back to life. What starts as a standard horror premise quickly explodes into something far more outrageous.

Forget slow-burning suspense—Re-Animator throws you headfirst into over-the-top gore, insane practical effects, and a pitch-black sense of humor that never lets up. Jeffrey Combs’ performance as West is iconic, and the film’s chaotic energy makes it an absolute blast to watch.

If you’re in the mood for something gory, funny, and just plain fun, Re-Animator is the perfect pick. And if you love it already? This 40th Anniversary release is the ultimate way to experience it.

*Thank you so much to David Roberson for the DVD copy of this film in exchange for an honest review!

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Celebrate Juneteenth with a Scare: 3 Black Horror Films That Speak Volumes

Leave a comment

Watching Black horror on Juneteenth is a powerful way to celebrate Black creativity, resilience, and storytelling. These films explore cultural fears, history, and identity through a unique lens, turning horror into a platform for reflection and empowerment. From social commentary to genre-bending thrills, Black horror challenges stereotypes while honoring the Black experience—making it both entertaining and meaningful.

SINNERS

Sinners delivers gripping drama, dark secrets, and moral twists that keep you hooked. With complex characters and intense storytelling, it’s a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and suspense.

THE BLACKENING

The Blackening blends sharp satire with horror-comedy, hilariously flipping horror tropes while exploring Black culture. It’s clever, socially aware, and full of surprises—perfect for fans of genre mashups!

NOPE

Nope is a bold, genre-defying thriller from Jordan Peele, blending sci-fi, horror, and social commentary. It’s visually stunning, thought-provoking, and full of suspenseful, unforgettable moments. Don’t miss it!

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Review: Pee-Wee As Himself

Leave a comment

Watching Pee-wee As Himself feels like peeling back the curtain on one of pop culture’s most fascinating figures. Paul Reubens, the man behind the bowtie and high-pitched giggle, was nothing short of a creative genius. This documentary doesn’t just show you how Pee-wee Herman was made—it reminds you how rare and brilliant it was for someone to invent a whole world, live in it, and get the world to follow along.

Reubens created a character that was joyfully weird, totally original, and unapologetically himself. Pee-wee was for kids, sure—but there was always this wink to adults. He was innocent but rebellious, silly but sharp. What the film captures so well is how Reubens didn’t just play Pee-wee—he was Pee-wee. It was performance art wrapped in Saturday morning cartoons, and it worked beautifully.

But then came the backlash. The documentary doesn’t shy away from the ugly part of the story—how a minor incident turned into a media frenzy and moral panic. It’s hard to ignore how homophobia and cultural conservatism played a huge role in tearing Reubens down. A guy who challenged gender norms, played with camp, and refused to be “normal” was an easy target. The media didn’t just report on him—they wanted to humiliate him.

The beauty of Pee-wee As Himself is that it gives Reubens the space he never really got at the time—to be human. To be more than a headline. It’s both a celebration and a gentle critique of the way fame and queerness have always been in tension in America.

More than anything, the doc reminds you: Pee-wee wasn’t just a character. He was a revolution in red lipstick and saddle shoes.

Now streaming on MAX.

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Women in Horror: Redefining the Genre and Shaping Fear

Leave a comment

The horror genre, with its history of jump scares, suspense, and psychological terror, has often been seen as a space primarily dominated by men—both on-screen and behind the scenes. Yet, as audiences grow more diverse and as filmmakers explore new approaches to storytelling, women have increasingly made their mark in the world of horror. Whether through compelling on-screen performances, dynamic characters, or groundbreaking directorial and writing roles, women are becoming crucial in the evolution of the genre, shaping the way we understand and experience fear.

The Evolution of Female Characters in Horror

For decades, women in horror were primarily portrayed as victims, often relegated to the role of the “final girl”—the lone survivor who outwits the killer. While characters like Laurie Strode from Halloween (1978) and Sally Hardesty from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) became staples of the genre, they often served as one-dimensional tropes of purity and innocence, simply surviving the terror unleashed by male antagonists. But as the genre has evolved, so have these female characters. No longer are they helpless victims, but multifaceted, empowered individuals who face terror with resourcefulness, courage, and strength.

Films like The Descent (2005) and The Witch (2015) introduced complex female characters who not only survived the terror but confronted their own fears, flaws, and complexities. The rise of these characters marks a significant shift in the genre, moving away from simple tropes and toward nuanced portrayals of women navigating horror in various forms. These women aren’t merely defined by their relationships to male characters or their ability to survive. Instead, they become central to the plot, shaping the story and driving the action.

Women as Creators in the Genre

While women have historically been underrepresented in horror filmmaking, this is beginning to change. Female directors and writers are increasingly using horror as a platform to explore themes like trauma, gender, and societal expectations. These films often provide a unique and important perspective, one that reflects the experiences of women navigating a world filled with its own set of dangers and societal pressures.

Director and writer Jennifer Kent made waves with her 2014 film The Babadook, a chilling exploration of grief, motherhood, and psychological terror. Kent’s ability to blend supernatural horror with real emotional trauma resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Her work paved the way for other female filmmakers, proving that women could tell horror stories with both depth and intensity.

Other notable women in horror include Mary Harron, who directed American Psycho (2000), a film that blends horror with social commentary on masculinity and identity. In recent years, filmmakers like Ari Aster (Hereditary) and Jordan Peele (Get Out) have created psychologically rich horror films that tap into societal fears, many of which echo the experiences of women in particular. As a result, women directors, producers, and writers are now more prominent than ever in shaping the genre.

The Importance of Women in Horror

The increasing representation of women in horror—both in front of and behind the camera—brings valuable perspectives to the genre. Horror, as a genre, is uniquely suited to explore human fears, traumas, and anxieties. When women have the opportunity to tell these stories, the result is often a more nuanced and complex portrayal of fear, one that speaks not just to the universal but also to the distinctly female experience.

Moreover, the rise of strong, multifaceted female characters challenges outdated gender roles and stereotypes, allowing audiences to see women as more than just victims or sidekicks. Instead, they are presented as active participants in the horror narrative, often driving the plot forward and confronting fears that are both supernatural and rooted in reality.

Final Thoughts

Women in horror are breaking barriers and redefining what it means to be both scared and powerful. As creators, they’re bringing fresh and important perspectives to the genre, pushing the boundaries of storytelling. As characters, they are no longer bound by the constraints of outdated stereotypes but are becoming integral parts of the narrative, embodying strength, resilience, and complexity. With the continued rise of female filmmakers and characters in horror, it’s clear that women are shaping the future of fear in ways that are both empowering and thought-provoking.

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

3 Horror Movies You Can Watch on Valentine’s Day (Because Love is Scary)

1 Comment

Valentine’s Day is supposed to be all about love, flowers, and heart-shaped everything. But let’s face it: the idea of watching a rom-com where everything works out perfectly can be terrifying—especially if you’re single or your idea of romance involves binge-watching horror movies. Fear not! This year, you can embrace the true spirit of Valentine’s Day by watching some horror movies that will remind you that love is actually scary. Grab your popcorn (or maybe a bottle of wine, because you’re gonna need it), and let’s dive into these lovely horror flicks:

“My Bloody Valentine” (1981 or 2009)

Okay, let’s be real: nothing says romance like a masked killer in a mining town and a bloody Valentine’s Day massacre. But hey, at least it’s not you being murdered… yet. Whether you watch the original 1981 version (which is delightfully cheesy) or the 2009 remake (which has a bit more modern gore), you’ll get to experience the thrill of someone really taking the whole “killing your ex” idea a little too far. If you’re single, it’s nice to know someone out there has way worse relationship problems than you.

Pro Tip: Try not to scream too loudly. The neighbors might think you’re actually in trouble. Or they’ll just think you have a strange romantic interest in pickaxes.

“The Bride of Frankenstein” (1935)

Let’s take it back to the classics, shall we? “The Bride of Frankenstein” is everything a Valentine’s horror movie should be: mad science, stitched-up lovers, and a strong female lead with questionable relationship choices. Watching Frankenstein’s monster try and fail at romance is a nice reminder that relationships can be a bit of a monster. But it’s okay—sometimes love just needs a little stitching up.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling particularly romantic, you can dress up like a mad scientist and start your own “romantic experiments.” Who knows? Maybe you’ll create the perfect Valentine. Or, you know, accidentally summon a horrifying monster. Either way, it’s a fun night.

“Teeth” (2007)

Nothing says “I love you” like the horrifying concept of vagina dentata. This psychological horror-comedy about a girl who discovers that her body has a terrifyingly deadly secret is perfect for anyone who wants a Valentine’s Day movie that’s both awkward and extremely unsettling. If you’re having trouble finding love, don’t worry—at least you won’t have to worry about that kind of surprise on your date.

Pro Tip: Watching this movie on Valentine’s Day will either make you want to run for the hills or vow to never go on a first date again. Either way, you’re in for a wild ride.

So, whether you’re curled up on the couch alone or snuggling with your non-horrifying partner, these movies will remind you that love isn’t always roses and chocolates—sometimes it’s body parts, strange creatures, and a lot of uncomfortable situations. So this Valentine’s Day, embrace the horror of it all… after all, what’s scarier than being alone on February 14th?

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

3 Must-Watch Movies for Black History Month

Leave a comment

Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements, contributions, and history of African Americans. One of the best ways to engage with this important month is through film—movies can educate, inspire, and bring history to life in a way that is both emotional and impactful. Here are three must-watch films to add to your list for Black History Month:

Selma (2014)

A poignant retelling of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches, Selma focuses on the courage and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Directed by Ava DuVernay, the film highlights the pivotal moments of the Civil Rights Movement and the personal and political struggles faced by Dr. King and his allies. It is a powerful look at the fight for voting rights and the determination it took to create lasting change. The performance of David Oyelowo as Dr. King is nothing short of extraordinary, bringing a sense of dignity and humanity to a monumental figure in history.

12 Years a Slave (2013)

12 Years a Slave is based on the incredible true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man from New York who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the South. Directed by Steve McQueen, this film sheds light on the brutal realities of slavery in America, offering an unflinching portrayal of the horrors that so many endured. With a gripping and heart-wrenching narrative, the film provides insight into the personal toll of systemic racism and the survival of the human spirit. Chiwetel Ejiofor’s performance as Solomon Northup is deeply moving, and the film won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Hidden Figures (2016)

Hidden Figures tells the inspiring true story of three African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who worked as mathematicians and engineers at NASA during the early days of the Space Race. Despite facing racial and gender barriers, these brilliant women played key roles in the success of the United States’ space program. Directed by Theodore Melfi, the film showcases their determination, intellect, and resilience. The cast, including Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, delivers performances that are both uplifting and empowering.

Conclusion

These films serve as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and contributions of African Americans throughout history. Each film offers a different perspective—whether it’s the fight for voting rights, the horror of slavery, or the unsung heroes of science and technology—showing that Black history is not only about struggle but also about triumph, perseverance, and immense achievements. Watching these films during Black History Month is a powerful way to reflect on the past and honor those who have paved the way for a more just and equal future.

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Film Review: Nosferatu (2024)

Leave a comment

The latest adaptation of Nosferatu (2024) is a stunning reimagining of the iconic 1922 silent film that has endured as one of the most influential horror movies in cinematic history. Directed by Robert Eggers, the film blends elements of gothic horror, expressionism, and modern sensibilities to create something both timeless and terrifying.

A Fresh Take on a Classic

Eggers, known for his meticulous craftsmanship in The Witch (2015) and The Lighthouse (2019), brings his signature atmospheric tension and historical precision to Nosferatu. The movie is a reworking of the classic tale of Count Orlok, a vampire whose eerie presence and insatiable thirst for blood spread fear and chaos. While the story remains rooted in the essential beats of the 1922 film, Eggers injects a fresh and chilling perspective into the narrative.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its refusal to simply remake the original but instead, taking the essence of the 1922 film and amplifying it. It’s not just a retelling; it’s a reimagining for a new era. The movie is steeped in the atmosphere of the 19th century, but Eggers expands the world with deeper emotional stakes, giving us a story that feels both historical and contemporary in its exploration of dread.

Visual and Cinematic Brilliance

The visuals are absolutely mesmerizing. Eggers’ use of practical effects and the gorgeous cinematography by Jarin Blaschke (a frequent collaborator) take full advantage of the eerie landscapes and the haunting visage of Count Orlok, played by Bill Skarsgård. The makeup and prosthetics on Skarsgård are nothing short of mesmerizing, transforming him into a truly otherworldly and grotesque figure. His portrayal of the vampire is a combination of the original Nosferatu’s malevolence and a new level of psychological complexity that makes Orlok both more unsettling and tragically human.

The film’s color palette is steeped in muted tones, with chiaroscuro lighting that evokes the expressionist style of the 1922 film but is done in a way that feels fresh and striking. Eggers embraces modern sensibilities but also pays homage to the heavy use of shadows and visual storytelling that made the silent film so groundbreaking.

A Strong Performances Across the Board

While Skarsgård’s performance as the vampire is undeniably captivating, the supporting cast also shines. Lily-Rose Depp, playing the central character of Ellen, is emotionally vulnerable yet resilient. Her portrayal of a woman torn between the supernatural forces surrounding her and the love of her husband (played by Nicholas Hoult) brings a poignancy to the film that deepens its terror. Depp’s presence is ethereal, almost as though she’s an extension of the haunting landscapes, which enhances the film’s atmosphere.

Nicholas Hoult, known for his versatility, gives a nuanced performance as the doctor who becomes entwined in Orlok’s web. His progression from curiosity to horror is beautifully done, and his chemistry with Depp makes their relationship believable even amidst the supernatural chaos.

Themes of Isolation and Despair

Nosferatu (2024) explores more than just the fear of vampires; it delves into themes of isolation, the human psyche, and the destructive nature of obsession. Much like the original, the film touches on the profound isolation of both Orlok and his victims, but Eggers takes this further, showing how fear and longing can distort reality. The dark, oppressive atmosphere mirrors the emotional isolation of the characters, where the external threats seem to echo internal struggles.

Eggers also plays with the notion of the monstrous as both an outward and inward transformation. Orlok is not just a vampire—he’s a manifestation of our darkest fears, a creature that lurks in the shadows of the human soul. The tension between the supernatural and the human condition makes the story resonate beyond the genre of horror.

The Verdict

Ultimately, Nosferatu (2024) is a triumph of modern horror filmmaking. Eggers has crafted a visually stunning, thematically rich, and deeply unsettling film that successfully reinvents a classic while staying true to the original’s spirit. Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Orlok is mesmerizing, and the haunting atmosphere of the film is a testament to Eggers’ prowess as a director.

While the film takes its time to build tension, its slow-burn atmosphere pays off in a finale that is as chilling as it is thought-provoking. Fans of classic horror, as well as those who appreciate more cerebral, atmospheric films, will find much to admire in this 2024 reimagining of Nosferatu. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll—both terrifying and beautiful in equal measure.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

A masterful reimagining of a classic, Nosferatu (2024) reminds us why horror, when done right, can transcend the realm of pure fright to become something far more profound.

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

3 Horror Movies for the Perfect Halloween Marathon

Leave a comment

Strange Darling

Nothing is what it seems when a twisted one-night stand spirals into a serial killer’s vicious murder spree.

This movie is phenomenally dark and chaotically twisty. And Kyle confirms himself as the Horror King. Go in blind and enjoy the crazy ride!

Long Legs

FBI Agent Lee Harker is assigned to an unsolved serial killer case that takes an unexpected turn, revealing evidence of the occult. Harker discovers a personal connection to the killer and must stop him before he strikes again.

Oz Perkins may be one of my recent fave directors. Every movie of his has been a major hit for the horror genre, and with Long Legs you get the bonus of Nickolas Cage and Horror Queen Maika Monroe.

Oddity

After the brutal murder of her twin sister, Darcy goes after those responsible by using haunted items as her tools for revenge.

For a shoestring budget, this movie packs a brutal punch and has the best jumpscare in a long time. You may want to check out Damia McCarthy’s previous film Caveat.

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!

Film Review: Cuckoo

Leave a comment

This wasn’t your usual horror movie – it has body horror, but it’s not horrific until you begin to hear the shriek the monster emits. Hunter Schafer is seventeen-year-old Gretchen who has recently lost her mother and had to relocate with her dad and his new family. She’s not keen on this, especially when they start living in the German Alps and she’s far from her US friends and the life she had there.

Dan Stevens plays the odd, Herr Konig (her dad’s boss) who fixates on her deaf sister Alma. He also offers Gretchen a job at his resort, but insists that she doesn’t work the night shift. Obviously, since this is a horror movie, we find out why when her co-worker asks Gretchen to cover her nightshift.

The movie is a mix of 70’s giallo but as the film progresses and Gretchen acquires more and more wounds, you begin to wonder how she’s going to final girl her way out of this predicament when she looks absolutely massacred. The unease that the characters feel in the movie due to the monster can be felt by the audience. When the monster shrieks, the audience cringes too as the sound is so offputting that you want it to stop. When the characters get stuck in a time loop, the audience feels just as disorientated, trying to figure out if the loop is going to continue or it’s going to end.

Cuckoo isn’t your typical horror movie, and it may not be the type of movie one might enjoy if your flavor of horror is Blumhouse horrors. But if you enjoy weird horror movies that are doing something interesting with the genre, then this might be up your alley.

DID YOU ENJOY WHAT YOU JUST READ? IF YES, THEN SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG, GIVE THE POST A LIKE, OR LEAVE A COMMENT! NEW POSTS ARE UP EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY!