A story is only as good as it's characters, so since it's the Halloween season still I thought I would countdown my favorite characters. So let the countdown begin!
10) Billy the "Good Zombie" (Hocus Pocus)
Though he does not get a whole lot of screen time, Billy still provides a lot of fun moments in the movie. Given how he at first works for the witches, there's also a feeling of worry that he might catch up to Max, Dani and Allison and gives the film more of a chase feeling. In the end though, he winds up helping them and earns his rest in peace...again.
9) Lonesome Ghosts (The Lonesome Ghosts)
Quite bored, these playful ghosts decide to call Mickey, Donald and Goofy to their home to have some fun scaring them. Even though our heroic trio are the main focus of the shorts, the ghosts provide plenty of fun interactions and are some of the more fondly remembered characters from the older Walt Disney shorts.
8) Marnie Piper (Halloweentown Series)
Despite the actress change in the fourth film, the character of Marnie is still rather enjoyable largely in part to her character growth. In the first film she does start out as a tad obnoxious, but through the films grows to a powerful and confident witch who is capable of handling herself. With some help from her friends and family. Even then, we get to see her grow closer to her mother and brother from her initial attitude towards them that leaves them at odds with each other.
7) Witch Hazel (Trick or Treat)
One of the rare "good" witches, Hazel is an enjoyable character with her zany attitude. Even though she appears in only the one cartoon short, and it's comic adaptation she still manages to come across as a lot of fun - even stopping to make a potion with a spell that's "the real thing, you know right out of Shakespeare"
6) Samhain (The Real Ghostbusters)
As I've said in my review of the episode, Samhain is one of the most enjoyable parts for me. Simplistic design aside, I still rather enjoy his overall visual look because it's not overly distracting. Instead we get a rather creepy villain who is also quite powerful given how he can change the clock tower and lord over all the various minions and spooks in the city. Sadly though, he is captured after the Ghostbusters come to save the day.
5) Samhain (Supernatural)
The origin of Halloween, Samhain is one of the more well known demons in the Supernatural world. Unlike the black-eyed demons, Samhain appears to be a higher up given how his eyes are similar to Lilith. Much like the Ghostbusters version, this Samhain is able to summon and control demons and zombies. But if I had to place a bet, I'd be willing to say this guy would win out in a fight between the two versions.
4) Witch Hazel (Broomstick Bunny)
Though she appears in more than just the one Halloween short, Witch Hazel is just too much fun to leave out. From her comical cackle, to the hairpins left in her wake as she zooms off it's no doubt that this Witch can bring the comedy. Putting that aside, she also knows how to get down to business and has a threatening side as she chases poor Bugs with an axe.
3) Grandma Aggie (Halloweentown Series)
Partly higher up on the list due to the wonderful performance that actress Debbie Reynolds gives, but Grandma Aggie is also a wonderful character in a series that does hit a slow note in the fourth installment. Definitely the highlight of the series, Aggie's wise ways and grandmotherly nature make her a charming character that is a delight to watch in action.
2) Headless Horseman (Disney's Sleepy Hollow)
Even though he does not appear until the very end of the short, the Headless Horseman is still quite a frightening sight to behold. The simple design, much like Samhain, works in his favor and couples well with all the suspense that builds up to his appearance. The flaming pumpkin that he throws at Ichabod at the end of a scary chase is just the icing on the cake as the cartoon reaches it's climax.
1) The Sanderson Sisters (Hocus Pocus)
It would be impossible to list the Sandersons as separate characters, given how well they play off each other in their interactions. Bette Middler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kath Najimy work so well together to bring this trio of witches to life and deliver the comedy, and the scary, a mile a minute in Hocus Pocus. From all of their great lines, interactions with each other, interactions with the present day and the showstopping number they perform the Sandersons have it all. One would be hard pressed to not laugh as you watch them seek out their book so they can suck the souls of all the children in Salem.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
When Halloween Was Forever
The Real Ghostbusters is a favorite of mine, and even though they deal with the spooky and supernatural every episode it's still rather fun to get to see a Halloween themed episode from them.
It seems that with Halloween happening, all the ghosts are even more active than normal. Two little goblins (I think they are goblins) however break into a museum and unleash the evil known as Samhain. This results in the essence of Halloween wanting to create eternal night, as he takes over a clock tower and threatens to make time stop so that Halloween lasts forever.
Thankfully, Egon as usual has a rather genius plan to weaken Samhain, the apparent master of the night, with several bright lights just long enough to zap him with their guns and capture him. Once the pesky ghost is caught, all is well as time returns to normal and Halloween ends.
There are several things I enjoy about this short, part of it is the general atmosphere. I also really enjoy the use of Samhain and his visual appearance even if it may come across as a tad plain. But then, more elaborate designs can distract and don't really make the character fully enjoyable if they are boring. Another thing I enjoyed was getting to see the numerous minion ghosts circling and covering the clock tower. Then again I am a fan of the villains and such.
In the end, When Halloween Was Forever is a great watch both as a Halloween themed episode and as a Ghostbusters episode.
It seems that with Halloween happening, all the ghosts are even more active than normal. Two little goblins (I think they are goblins) however break into a museum and unleash the evil known as Samhain. This results in the essence of Halloween wanting to create eternal night, as he takes over a clock tower and threatens to make time stop so that Halloween lasts forever.
Thankfully, Egon as usual has a rather genius plan to weaken Samhain, the apparent master of the night, with several bright lights just long enough to zap him with their guns and capture him. Once the pesky ghost is caught, all is well as time returns to normal and Halloween ends.
There are several things I enjoy about this short, part of it is the general atmosphere. I also really enjoy the use of Samhain and his visual appearance even if it may come across as a tad plain. But then, more elaborate designs can distract and don't really make the character fully enjoyable if they are boring. Another thing I enjoyed was getting to see the numerous minion ghosts circling and covering the clock tower. Then again I am a fan of the villains and such.
In the end, When Halloween Was Forever is a great watch both as a Halloween themed episode and as a Ghostbusters episode.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Hocus Pocus
Pure. Damn. Fun. Enough said.
Well, not really. Hocus Pocus to me is the perfect Halloween film. It's a lot of fun, the performances are great and the story itself is enjoyable. But let's just dive right in.
A long time ago there lived the Sanderson sisters, Winnifred (Better Middler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker) and Mary (Kathy Najimy). The trio of witches possess a book given to Winnifred by the devil himself and use this to brew all sorts of nasty potions. The primary one they use allows them to suck the life out of children, thereby extending their own lives. As they renew themselves, they are interrupted by Thackery Binx who has come to save his sister. Sadly this is all in vain as his sister is killed and he is turned into a black cat, forced to live with his guilt.
Many years later we find our protagonists, Max Dennison, his younger sister Dani and the love interest, Allison. After being forced into taking his little sister trick or treating, the duo eventually arrive at Allison's house. After discussing the shared interest in the Sanderson's now vacant home, they decide to go and check it out since Allison conveniently has the key to get in. Of course, Max goofs around and accidentally summons the witches back with the Black Flame Candle.
After a close call, our heroes escape and Binx who is still alive and kicking joins up with them to provide whatever help he can. Joining our feisty villains is Billy the Butcher, an ex-lover of both Winnifred and Sarah's who comes back as a zombie to chase our heroes. Many hijinks ensue until finally the witches seem to meet their demise with a trap worthy of Fred from Scooby-Doo. Only without the fail.
This is actually part of the movie that seems to make me question the morals of our heroes. Why don't they have any qualms over burning three women alive? Ah, who cares since they come back anyways!
Ready to face the bitter end, the sisters try to recreate the potion from memory to little success. However, when the good intentions of Max and Allison go wrong, the book lights up their location and allows the witches to get their shot at one last stand. Kidnapping Dani, they make a fresh batch of potion though it nearly all goes to waste thanks to Max who arrives in the nick of time. The kids make their final stand against the witches in the graveyard with the help of Billy (who is apparently a good zombie), stalling for the sunrise. In the end, the witches are destroyed with the rising sun.
This movie is completely fun. The jokes are still hilarious to this day and are delivered constantly. The true highlight of this film is the Sanderson sisters who are wonderfully played and their interactions with each other is a delight. The kids are well done which is surprising in Dani's (Thora Birch) instance given just how fickle some child actors can be, and how they can tend to steal the spotlight. One of my favorite scenes is the "I Put A Spell On You" song and dance performed by Better Middler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy.
Always, always, always worth at least one viewing during the Halloween season and can even be fun out of season as well.
Well, not really. Hocus Pocus to me is the perfect Halloween film. It's a lot of fun, the performances are great and the story itself is enjoyable. But let's just dive right in.
A long time ago there lived the Sanderson sisters, Winnifred (Better Middler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker) and Mary (Kathy Najimy). The trio of witches possess a book given to Winnifred by the devil himself and use this to brew all sorts of nasty potions. The primary one they use allows them to suck the life out of children, thereby extending their own lives. As they renew themselves, they are interrupted by Thackery Binx who has come to save his sister. Sadly this is all in vain as his sister is killed and he is turned into a black cat, forced to live with his guilt.
Many years later we find our protagonists, Max Dennison, his younger sister Dani and the love interest, Allison. After being forced into taking his little sister trick or treating, the duo eventually arrive at Allison's house. After discussing the shared interest in the Sanderson's now vacant home, they decide to go and check it out since Allison conveniently has the key to get in. Of course, Max goofs around and accidentally summons the witches back with the Black Flame Candle.
After a close call, our heroes escape and Binx who is still alive and kicking joins up with them to provide whatever help he can. Joining our feisty villains is Billy the Butcher, an ex-lover of both Winnifred and Sarah's who comes back as a zombie to chase our heroes. Many hijinks ensue until finally the witches seem to meet their demise with a trap worthy of Fred from Scooby-Doo. Only without the fail.
This is actually part of the movie that seems to make me question the morals of our heroes. Why don't they have any qualms over burning three women alive? Ah, who cares since they come back anyways!
Ready to face the bitter end, the sisters try to recreate the potion from memory to little success. However, when the good intentions of Max and Allison go wrong, the book lights up their location and allows the witches to get their shot at one last stand. Kidnapping Dani, they make a fresh batch of potion though it nearly all goes to waste thanks to Max who arrives in the nick of time. The kids make their final stand against the witches in the graveyard with the help of Billy (who is apparently a good zombie), stalling for the sunrise. In the end, the witches are destroyed with the rising sun.
This movie is completely fun. The jokes are still hilarious to this day and are delivered constantly. The true highlight of this film is the Sanderson sisters who are wonderfully played and their interactions with each other is a delight. The kids are well done which is surprising in Dani's (Thora Birch) instance given just how fickle some child actors can be, and how they can tend to steal the spotlight. One of my favorite scenes is the "I Put A Spell On You" song and dance performed by Better Middler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy.
Always, always, always worth at least one viewing during the Halloween season and can even be fun out of season as well.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Mickey's House of Villains
I'll admit, when I heard this was coming out I was pretty excited. Who couldn't be? A feature length film centered around the villains. When I finally saw it there was a mixture of feelings, surprise, excitement and a bit of confusion. While it was still a huge step in the right direction for giving the villains some spotlight, part of me was a bit surprised at how it was done. Though now that I look back, it does make sense.
What follows is a longer than normal episode of House of Mouse. For those not in the now, House of Mouse is a nightclub run by Mickey and the gang where all of the various Disney characters can come and dine while watching cartoon shorts.
Now, House of Mouse may not be the most amazing t.v show put out by Disney I still have to give them a lot of credit for actually dipping into their older shorts from time to time to use in this show. That aside, it's also rather fun getting to see everybody in the same location, Cruella and Hook rubbing shoulders with Maleficent etc.
Back to House of Villains. The choice of shorts is actually pretty fun, though I do have to question what they were thinking adding in a short of Goofy in a yellow leotard. Then again that is pretty scary so it's fitting. Aside from that we also are treated to "Lonesome Ghosts", "Trick or Treat", and "Donald and the Gorilla" for the older Walt made shorts. As well we get a few Mickey Mouseworks notably one where Mickey and Pluto are in a crazy house.
While the shorts themselves are quite entertaining on their own, the plot of Jafar leading the villains to take over is just as much fun. The real showstopper however is when all of the villains join together to sing "It's Our House Now" as they kick out our favorite mouse and all the more friendly characters.
For the villains, we really do get quite the helping of them as pretty much every Animated Classic villains makes an appearance even if for a brief moment, Monstro aside given how he's a whale. What I enjoyed was scanning the crowd to pick out who was present and spotted a few lesser seen characters such as Lucifur and Big Bad Wolf.
If you're a fan of Disney, Villains or Halloween this is definitely for you and worth a look.
What follows is a longer than normal episode of House of Mouse. For those not in the now, House of Mouse is a nightclub run by Mickey and the gang where all of the various Disney characters can come and dine while watching cartoon shorts.
Now, House of Mouse may not be the most amazing t.v show put out by Disney I still have to give them a lot of credit for actually dipping into their older shorts from time to time to use in this show. That aside, it's also rather fun getting to see everybody in the same location, Cruella and Hook rubbing shoulders with Maleficent etc.
Back to House of Villains. The choice of shorts is actually pretty fun, though I do have to question what they were thinking adding in a short of Goofy in a yellow leotard. Then again that is pretty scary so it's fitting. Aside from that we also are treated to "Lonesome Ghosts", "Trick or Treat", and "Donald and the Gorilla" for the older Walt made shorts. As well we get a few Mickey Mouseworks notably one where Mickey and Pluto are in a crazy house.
While the shorts themselves are quite entertaining on their own, the plot of Jafar leading the villains to take over is just as much fun. The real showstopper however is when all of the villains join together to sing "It's Our House Now" as they kick out our favorite mouse and all the more friendly characters.
For the villains, we really do get quite the helping of them as pretty much every Animated Classic villains makes an appearance even if for a brief moment, Monstro aside given how he's a whale. What I enjoyed was scanning the crowd to pick out who was present and spotted a few lesser seen characters such as Lucifur and Big Bad Wolf.
If you're a fan of Disney, Villains or Halloween this is definitely for you and worth a look.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Countdown: Top Ten Halloween Specials/Episodes
Continuing with the Halloween-themed countdowns, I now present my ten favorite Halloween specials, episodes and shorts. Sadly there are a lot more out there that most likely deserve a spot on here, but I have been unable to track them all down.
10) Halloween (Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 2)
While it's a tad odd to see a Halloween episode in a show that's always got monsters running amok, this one is rather enjoyable and seems to fit right in with the rest of the episodes in the season. Despite having more time to tell the story, it just doesn't quite have that extra bit to earn a place higher on the list.
9) Eye of the Beholder (Gargoyles Season 2)
Ah, Gargoyles. This was quite fun since the our heroes actually get a chance to walk amongst the humans without causing a stir. This provides some fun opportunities and interactions. Though a fair amount of time is directed towards the trouble that Fox is in as Goliath and Xanatos work together to help.
8) Headless Horseman Of Halloween (Scooby-Doo)
While I have already reviewed this not too long ago, this episode is a lot of fun as we see a Scooby version of the Horseman. Even if the story is pretty straight forward, and the villain obvious it's still pretty fun especially with the inclusion of Scooby-Dum.
7) It's the Great Pumpkin, Sam Winchester (Supernatural Season 3)
Much like Buffy, having a Halloween episode on a show known for it's monsters can be a tad odd. But also a bit fitting since we can explore Samhain and the holiday itself a bit more. As it turns out Samhain is featured in this episode as one of the many Seals locking up Lucifer. The twist on Samhain was rather fun to see as well as the take on the holiday from a more Supernatural perspective.
6) Broomstick Bunny (Bugs Bunny Short)
One of my favorite Bugs shorts, this trip features our favorite rabbit as he matches wits against Witch Hazel. While the Halloween theme is only referenced largely in the beginning to set things up, the short itself is quite enjoyable from start to finish.
5) Trick or Treat (Donald Duck Short)
Much like the previous entry, this short features a Witch Hazel who is even voiced by the same actress as Broomstick Bunny. This Donald short features the poor duck as he battles against Witch Hazel who is intent of teaching him to be less stingy with the candy. The addition of Huey, Dewey and Louie makes this a perfect short, especially with the song we have included.
4) When Halloween Was Forever (The Real Ghostbusters)
Who you gonna call? Ghosbusters! Once again we find a twist on Samhain in the form of a spook with a pumpkin for a head. I remember this cartoon from when I was younger and have always loved the character as he's surrounded by the ghosts flying up to him. Definately a favorite that is viewed not only every year at Halloween but still enjoyable any time.
3) Garfield's Halloween Adventure (Garfield Special)
I've always loved Garfield, adding in my love of Halloween and we have a recipe for success. Watching our hefty as trick or treats with Odie is enjoyable to watch, especially with the catchy songs that can stick in your head. The pirates who are surprisingly scary for a Garfield cartoon are a definate highlight and pretty well handled. Worthy of it's place on this list.
2) It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown (Peanuts Special)
.....I got a rock. This short, much like the others on this list is rather timeless. The fact it's lasted this long is a testament to it's high enjoyability as we watch our favorite Peanuts characters celebrate Halloween. Getting to watch Sally be duped into sitting with Linus as they wait for the Great Pumpkin still earns laughs.
1) The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad)
From the creepy atmosphere, the fun songs to the great characters, Disney's telling of Sleepy Hollow has it all. The Horseman chasing Ichabod through the forest can be quite creepy and is well animatd. The suspense built up through the night as Ichabod is exposed to the legend by Brom Bones at the party is well done. Definately my favorite Halloween special even if it may not take place on the day itself.
Honorable Mentions. While some of these may be questionable for where they are from, I felt the following deserved at least a slight nod for their use of Halloween.
- Things That Go Bump In The Night (Tiny Toons)
- Hyde and Hare (Bugs Bunny Short)
- Transylvania 6-5000 (Bugs Bunny Short)
- Trick or Treat (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers)
- Life's A Masquerade (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers)
- Fear, Itself (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
- The Flintstones Meet Rockula and Frankenstone (Flintstones)
- Treehouse of Horror series (Simpsons, much thanks to Garethil for pointing out they were missing :) )
10) Halloween (Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 2)
While it's a tad odd to see a Halloween episode in a show that's always got monsters running amok, this one is rather enjoyable and seems to fit right in with the rest of the episodes in the season. Despite having more time to tell the story, it just doesn't quite have that extra bit to earn a place higher on the list.
9) Eye of the Beholder (Gargoyles Season 2)
Ah, Gargoyles. This was quite fun since the our heroes actually get a chance to walk amongst the humans without causing a stir. This provides some fun opportunities and interactions. Though a fair amount of time is directed towards the trouble that Fox is in as Goliath and Xanatos work together to help.
8) Headless Horseman Of Halloween (Scooby-Doo)
While I have already reviewed this not too long ago, this episode is a lot of fun as we see a Scooby version of the Horseman. Even if the story is pretty straight forward, and the villain obvious it's still pretty fun especially with the inclusion of Scooby-Dum.
7) It's the Great Pumpkin, Sam Winchester (Supernatural Season 3)
Much like Buffy, having a Halloween episode on a show known for it's monsters can be a tad odd. But also a bit fitting since we can explore Samhain and the holiday itself a bit more. As it turns out Samhain is featured in this episode as one of the many Seals locking up Lucifer. The twist on Samhain was rather fun to see as well as the take on the holiday from a more Supernatural perspective.
6) Broomstick Bunny (Bugs Bunny Short)
One of my favorite Bugs shorts, this trip features our favorite rabbit as he matches wits against Witch Hazel. While the Halloween theme is only referenced largely in the beginning to set things up, the short itself is quite enjoyable from start to finish.
5) Trick or Treat (Donald Duck Short)
Much like the previous entry, this short features a Witch Hazel who is even voiced by the same actress as Broomstick Bunny. This Donald short features the poor duck as he battles against Witch Hazel who is intent of teaching him to be less stingy with the candy. The addition of Huey, Dewey and Louie makes this a perfect short, especially with the song we have included.
4) When Halloween Was Forever (The Real Ghostbusters)
Who you gonna call? Ghosbusters! Once again we find a twist on Samhain in the form of a spook with a pumpkin for a head. I remember this cartoon from when I was younger and have always loved the character as he's surrounded by the ghosts flying up to him. Definately a favorite that is viewed not only every year at Halloween but still enjoyable any time.
3) Garfield's Halloween Adventure (Garfield Special)
I've always loved Garfield, adding in my love of Halloween and we have a recipe for success. Watching our hefty as trick or treats with Odie is enjoyable to watch, especially with the catchy songs that can stick in your head. The pirates who are surprisingly scary for a Garfield cartoon are a definate highlight and pretty well handled. Worthy of it's place on this list.
2) It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown (Peanuts Special)
.....I got a rock. This short, much like the others on this list is rather timeless. The fact it's lasted this long is a testament to it's high enjoyability as we watch our favorite Peanuts characters celebrate Halloween. Getting to watch Sally be duped into sitting with Linus as they wait for the Great Pumpkin still earns laughs.
1) The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad)
From the creepy atmosphere, the fun songs to the great characters, Disney's telling of Sleepy Hollow has it all. The Horseman chasing Ichabod through the forest can be quite creepy and is well animatd. The suspense built up through the night as Ichabod is exposed to the legend by Brom Bones at the party is well done. Definately my favorite Halloween special even if it may not take place on the day itself.
Honorable Mentions. While some of these may be questionable for where they are from, I felt the following deserved at least a slight nod for their use of Halloween.
- Things That Go Bump In The Night (Tiny Toons)
- Hyde and Hare (Bugs Bunny Short)
- Transylvania 6-5000 (Bugs Bunny Short)
- Trick or Treat (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers)
- Life's A Masquerade (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers)
- Fear, Itself (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
- The Flintstones Meet Rockula and Frankenstone (Flintstones)
- Treehouse of Horror series (Simpsons, much thanks to Garethil for pointing out they were missing :) )
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Countdown: Horror Movie Killers
Horror killers. While they have been a staple to the genre, there seemed to be a larger number during the 1970's and onwards. Tonight I countdown my top 10 favorites, as well toss out a few honorable mentions to those I have not seen in action yet.
10) The Leprechaun (Leprechaun)
This feisty Leprechaun is much happier when he has his pot of gold. Though when that is taken, the gloves come off and the bodies begin to pile up. The Leprechaun can be rather creepy at times, one of his most notable scenes includes killing someone with a pogo stick.
9) Headless Horseman (Sleepy Hollow)
One of the most iconic characters around the Halloween season, the story of the Headless Horseman is well known and has had many retellings. Tim Burton's Horseman however is perhaps the most frightening version to date. One of his most notable scenes is the fight on the bridge.
8) Ben Willis (I Know What You Did Last Summer)
Seeking revenge for what they did to him one summer, Ben Willis targets four friends. At first he slowly messes with them, throwing suspicions to others and on each other. Soon though the games end and Ben begins to take down anyone who gets in his way as he gets his revenge on the friends.
7) Candyman (Candyman)
Abandoning humor like some of the killers on this list, the Candyman is one of the creepiest of the lot. One of his best scenes is where he tries to convince Helen, the protagonist from the first film, to join him in undeath and fuel the legend more. This is one vengeful man you don't want to summon.
6) The Creeper (Jeepers Creepers)
Every 21 years this demon rises to feed. Unlike the others, the Creeper has the ability to keep up with his victims by flying overhead and swooping down on whoever is unlucky enough to be below him. His number of victims is staggering, a large number of victims buried beneath his house of pain.
5) Chucky aka Charles Lee Ray (Child's Play)
Serial killer turned doll through the help of voodoo. Chucky proves that size doesn't matter as he terrorizes the child, Andy Barclay. What's more frightening about Chucky is how in the first film there is less of a focus on simply getting a large body count and more on his interactions with Andy. Sadly the later films turned him first into a run of the mill slasher, and again into a more comedic character.
4) Leatherface (Texas Chainsaw Massacre)
While not knowing where the killer is that's stalking you, somtimes it can be even worse hearing the sound of a chainsaw revving as he hunts you down. Despite the burden of lugging the chainsaw around with him, Leatherface still manages to get to his victim as he chases them down. The use of different masks made of human flesh, and his character being based in part off of a real life killer earns Leatherface this spot on the list.
3) Jason Voorhees (Friday the 13th Part 2)
At first I was a bit unsure where to place Jason. For a long time he's remained an iconic character for me when it comes to horror. Jason, despite not appearing until the second installment still manages to produce a pretty sizeable body count over the course of the series. One thing Jason has going for him is that he is not dialogue dependent, which can give an eerie edge not knowing what he's thinking.
2) Michael Myers (Halloween)
One thing I love about the original Michael, is how he comes from a normal family. To me that is far more frightening to see than a potentially more obvious approach like we see in the remakes. Like Jason, we don't get any dialogue though I find that Michael wins out a lot more in the eerie department. While his body count may not be as large as others, Michael makes up for it in various other departments. As well, he is one of the more brutal members of the list and is even able to drive a car! Something we don't really see often from a slasher.
1) Freddy Krueger (Nightmare On Elm Street)
Ah, Freddy. The most frightening aspect about him is that you aren't safe. Ever. You will have to fall asleep eventually, or else risk slowly damaging yourself to stay awake. When you do fall asleep you're trapped in his world and are forced to play by his rules. This killer is taking out his revenge on the parents of Elm street by taking out their children one by one. From his iconic look, to the gloved hand, Krueger is pure evil and one of the biggest villains in the game.
*Honorable Mentions*
- Annie Wilkes (Misery)
- Pinhead (Hellraiser)
- The Djinn (Wishmaster)
- Norman Bates (Psycho)
- The Hills Clan (Hills Have Eyes)
One thing to keep in mind regarding Jason Voorhees, Michael Myer and Freddy Krueger is that the incarnations I have chosen for the list are the originals and not the remade characters.
See anybody on the list that I missed? Drop me a line and I'll include my thoughts the next chance I get!
10) The Leprechaun (Leprechaun)
This feisty Leprechaun is much happier when he has his pot of gold. Though when that is taken, the gloves come off and the bodies begin to pile up. The Leprechaun can be rather creepy at times, one of his most notable scenes includes killing someone with a pogo stick.
9) Headless Horseman (Sleepy Hollow)
One of the most iconic characters around the Halloween season, the story of the Headless Horseman is well known and has had many retellings. Tim Burton's Horseman however is perhaps the most frightening version to date. One of his most notable scenes is the fight on the bridge.
8) Ben Willis (I Know What You Did Last Summer)
Seeking revenge for what they did to him one summer, Ben Willis targets four friends. At first he slowly messes with them, throwing suspicions to others and on each other. Soon though the games end and Ben begins to take down anyone who gets in his way as he gets his revenge on the friends.
7) Candyman (Candyman)
Abandoning humor like some of the killers on this list, the Candyman is one of the creepiest of the lot. One of his best scenes is where he tries to convince Helen, the protagonist from the first film, to join him in undeath and fuel the legend more. This is one vengeful man you don't want to summon.
6) The Creeper (Jeepers Creepers)
Every 21 years this demon rises to feed. Unlike the others, the Creeper has the ability to keep up with his victims by flying overhead and swooping down on whoever is unlucky enough to be below him. His number of victims is staggering, a large number of victims buried beneath his house of pain.
5) Chucky aka Charles Lee Ray (Child's Play)
Serial killer turned doll through the help of voodoo. Chucky proves that size doesn't matter as he terrorizes the child, Andy Barclay. What's more frightening about Chucky is how in the first film there is less of a focus on simply getting a large body count and more on his interactions with Andy. Sadly the later films turned him first into a run of the mill slasher, and again into a more comedic character.
4) Leatherface (Texas Chainsaw Massacre)
While not knowing where the killer is that's stalking you, somtimes it can be even worse hearing the sound of a chainsaw revving as he hunts you down. Despite the burden of lugging the chainsaw around with him, Leatherface still manages to get to his victim as he chases them down. The use of different masks made of human flesh, and his character being based in part off of a real life killer earns Leatherface this spot on the list.
3) Jason Voorhees (Friday the 13th Part 2)
At first I was a bit unsure where to place Jason. For a long time he's remained an iconic character for me when it comes to horror. Jason, despite not appearing until the second installment still manages to produce a pretty sizeable body count over the course of the series. One thing Jason has going for him is that he is not dialogue dependent, which can give an eerie edge not knowing what he's thinking.
2) Michael Myers (Halloween)
One thing I love about the original Michael, is how he comes from a normal family. To me that is far more frightening to see than a potentially more obvious approach like we see in the remakes. Like Jason, we don't get any dialogue though I find that Michael wins out a lot more in the eerie department. While his body count may not be as large as others, Michael makes up for it in various other departments. As well, he is one of the more brutal members of the list and is even able to drive a car! Something we don't really see often from a slasher.
1) Freddy Krueger (Nightmare On Elm Street)
Ah, Freddy. The most frightening aspect about him is that you aren't safe. Ever. You will have to fall asleep eventually, or else risk slowly damaging yourself to stay awake. When you do fall asleep you're trapped in his world and are forced to play by his rules. This killer is taking out his revenge on the parents of Elm street by taking out their children one by one. From his iconic look, to the gloved hand, Krueger is pure evil and one of the biggest villains in the game.
*Honorable Mentions*
- Annie Wilkes (Misery)
- Pinhead (Hellraiser)
- The Djinn (Wishmaster)
- Norman Bates (Psycho)
- The Hills Clan (Hills Have Eyes)
One thing to keep in mind regarding Jason Voorhees, Michael Myer and Freddy Krueger is that the incarnations I have chosen for the list are the originals and not the remade characters.
See anybody on the list that I missed? Drop me a line and I'll include my thoughts the next chance I get!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Scooby-Doo: Headless Horseman of Halloween
Scooby-Doo! I'll save the review of the series in general for another day. However the focus tonight is on the Headless Horseman.
The gang goes to a Halloween bash thrown by their friend Beth Crane, who is a descendant of Ichabod Crane. Hijink(ies) ensue when the Headless Horseman arrives and scares the party-goers off. Beth's aunt is shown to have a necklace that is apparently cursed and the reason why the Horseman is haunting things tonight. A rather shady cousin offers to fly the diamonds off to his banker boss, though is taken by the ghost.
Following some hunches and various clues, Fred decides to take the gang to airport to set the trap. In the end, our villain is captured and revealed to be the cousin and the diamonds are reclaimed.
The episode's mystery is extremely easy to solve, though that is alright since that's generally the case with the mysteries. Animation is pretty on par with Scooby t.v episodes and the script has an oddity here and there. The most notable example is during an exchange between Beth and the gang when she wonders how Shaggy has heard of Ichabod and the Horseman. One thing that make this episode a bit fun is the inclusion of Scooby-Dum as he joins the gang this time. Thankfully Scrappy-Doo is nowhere in sight.
For Scooby-Doo it's quite an enjoyable episode and perfect for the Halloween season.
The gang goes to a Halloween bash thrown by their friend Beth Crane, who is a descendant of Ichabod Crane. Hijink(ies) ensue when the Headless Horseman arrives and scares the party-goers off. Beth's aunt is shown to have a necklace that is apparently cursed and the reason why the Horseman is haunting things tonight. A rather shady cousin offers to fly the diamonds off to his banker boss, though is taken by the ghost.
Following some hunches and various clues, Fred decides to take the gang to airport to set the trap. In the end, our villain is captured and revealed to be the cousin and the diamonds are reclaimed.
The episode's mystery is extremely easy to solve, though that is alright since that's generally the case with the mysteries. Animation is pretty on par with Scooby t.v episodes and the script has an oddity here and there. The most notable example is during an exchange between Beth and the gang when she wonders how Shaggy has heard of Ichabod and the Horseman. One thing that make this episode a bit fun is the inclusion of Scooby-Dum as he joins the gang this time. Thankfully Scrappy-Doo is nowhere in sight.
For Scooby-Doo it's quite an enjoyable episode and perfect for the Halloween season.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Saw 2
Following in the footsteps of the first movie, Saw 2 continues Jigsaws quest to make others appreciate life.
This time around though, a group of strangers and a survivor of his "games" are locked in a house where a toxin is slowly killing them. The idea reminded a lot of Cube at first, though this movie is a bit slow on the pace.
We do manage to find one character to generally root for, though the rest are just your standard cannon fodder for movies such as these. The traps are once again a bit unique, though we know what to expect this time around and it loses a bit of it's advantage from the previous.
Overall, the plot is rather bland and just a rehash of the first movie. Characters are fairly uninteresting. The only really noteworthy part that did make me cringe was the pit of used needles that one girl is tossed into and is forced to dig around. Aside from that, it's fairly passable.
This time around though, a group of strangers and a survivor of his "games" are locked in a house where a toxin is slowly killing them. The idea reminded a lot of Cube at first, though this movie is a bit slow on the pace.
We do manage to find one character to generally root for, though the rest are just your standard cannon fodder for movies such as these. The traps are once again a bit unique, though we know what to expect this time around and it loses a bit of it's advantage from the previous.
Overall, the plot is rather bland and just a rehash of the first movie. Characters are fairly uninteresting. The only really noteworthy part that did make me cringe was the pit of used needles that one girl is tossed into and is forced to dig around. Aside from that, it's fairly passable.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Garfield's Halloween Adventure
One of three holiday specials that stars Garfield, the Halloween special is one of my favorite themed shows to date.
We find Garfield has candy fever right in time for Halloween. After deciding that taking Odie along means more candy, the orange feline dupes the poor mutt into dressing up to come with him out on the town. What follows is a fun adventure as Garfield sings a bit as he and Odie hit the town collecting candy...candy...candy!
Soon though, the two ride a rowboat out to a haunted looking home. Upon exploring the find an old man who tells them a pirate story. Before they can escape the home, the ghosts of the pirates come knocking to seek their treasure. All is well in the end, as they escape with their lives and their candy.
Garfield's Halloween Adventure is a pretty fun short, with enjoyable characters and story. The music can be rather catchy, though the songs are fairly short and change often. The backgrounds and animation are pretty basic, though this suits it well since it is based off a comic strip character. The ghosts animation, and scenes are my favorite part of the short by far.
Highly recommended to all those who want something to watch this Halloween.
We find Garfield has candy fever right in time for Halloween. After deciding that taking Odie along means more candy, the orange feline dupes the poor mutt into dressing up to come with him out on the town. What follows is a fun adventure as Garfield sings a bit as he and Odie hit the town collecting candy...candy...candy!
Soon though, the two ride a rowboat out to a haunted looking home. Upon exploring the find an old man who tells them a pirate story. Before they can escape the home, the ghosts of the pirates come knocking to seek their treasure. All is well in the end, as they escape with their lives and their candy.
Garfield's Halloween Adventure is a pretty fun short, with enjoyable characters and story. The music can be rather catchy, though the songs are fairly short and change often. The backgrounds and animation are pretty basic, though this suits it well since it is based off a comic strip character. The ghosts animation, and scenes are my favorite part of the short by far.
Highly recommended to all those who want something to watch this Halloween.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Saw
The first in the growing series, Saw brings a more unique approach to horror. Instead of a slasher hacking his way through idiotic characters, Jigsaw, our villain instead sits back and watches the victims kill themselves in his various traps as they try to escape. It reminds me a bit of Cube in the end, though I don't really recall that movie too well.
We find our two...leads trapped in an old bathroom, chained to pipes by a foot. What follows is a very long feeling movie. The characters are a tad hard to like, or feel tons of sympathy for. When it comes to Lawrence, I feel bad for his family who is drawn into things because of him. As for Adam, I suppose some sympathy can be lent to him for getting stuck in this mess, though I'm still rather iffy on things.
Jigsaw chooses his victims based on their life, if they don't seem to appreciate life then you can bet they will wind up in a trap of sorts. As for other characters we get Detective Trapp and Detective Sing, whose storyline sort of loses me. At times it appears they are hunting down Jigsaw during present day, but it's actually flashbacks? Either I'm missing something or it was just handled a bit poorly. Probably the former, just due to my lack of interest in things.
Visually, the movie is pretty good especially compared to some older slasher flicks. The movie can be rather creative at times when it comes to the traps. Though the complexity of the situation our two main characters are in can be harder to follow with the various backtracking to show previous events.
It's watchable, and not all bad. Worth a look for the curious, or those not wanting to see the umpteenth entry in a slasher series. Though watch out for this series is growing steadily itself.
We find our two...leads trapped in an old bathroom, chained to pipes by a foot. What follows is a very long feeling movie. The characters are a tad hard to like, or feel tons of sympathy for. When it comes to Lawrence, I feel bad for his family who is drawn into things because of him. As for Adam, I suppose some sympathy can be lent to him for getting stuck in this mess, though I'm still rather iffy on things.
Jigsaw chooses his victims based on their life, if they don't seem to appreciate life then you can bet they will wind up in a trap of sorts. As for other characters we get Detective Trapp and Detective Sing, whose storyline sort of loses me. At times it appears they are hunting down Jigsaw during present day, but it's actually flashbacks? Either I'm missing something or it was just handled a bit poorly. Probably the former, just due to my lack of interest in things.
Visually, the movie is pretty good especially compared to some older slasher flicks. The movie can be rather creative at times when it comes to the traps. Though the complexity of the situation our two main characters are in can be harder to follow with the various backtracking to show previous events.
It's watchable, and not all bad. Worth a look for the curious, or those not wanting to see the umpteenth entry in a slasher series. Though watch out for this series is growing steadily itself.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Nightmare On Elm Street (2010)
Following in the footsteps of Halloween and Friday the 13th, we soon got to see Freddy Krueger be remade and updated for today's audience.
This remake keeps a lot of the old scenes from the original film, though delivers them in a new way and sometimes with a small twist to make it it's own. I had thought for sure that like Halloween, and Friday the 13th, that this one would also have a prologue of sorts. It did in it's own way, but nowhere near as lengthy as the former two.
The characters are fairly close to the first film, it's actually been a while since I've seen it so I can't really recall who's who. However. I do know that this time around Freddy is.....different. In some ways they improved him, largely dialogue wise and with his story. However they also dropped the ball on him visually, mostly in the face area. He's so....smooth on one side. The cover art actually makes him look scarier than in the movie itself.
In the end it's a pretty good remake, especially when compared to others *coughs* The Fog *coughs* Yet it still has areas which could have been improved upon. Definately worth a watch if you are a horor fan.
This remake keeps a lot of the old scenes from the original film, though delivers them in a new way and sometimes with a small twist to make it it's own. I had thought for sure that like Halloween, and Friday the 13th, that this one would also have a prologue of sorts. It did in it's own way, but nowhere near as lengthy as the former two.
The characters are fairly close to the first film, it's actually been a while since I've seen it so I can't really recall who's who. However. I do know that this time around Freddy is.....different. In some ways they improved him, largely dialogue wise and with his story. However they also dropped the ball on him visually, mostly in the face area. He's so....smooth on one side. The cover art actually makes him look scarier than in the movie itself.
In the end it's a pretty good remake, especially when compared to others *coughs* The Fog *coughs* Yet it still has areas which could have been improved upon. Definately worth a watch if you are a horor fan.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Ghost Rig
Ghost Rig. A group of ten environmentalists take over the oil rig Janus when it's owners decide they'd rather let it go down into the ocean to become a reef over time.
The movie is rather slow to get going as we spend time watching the group explore the rig. However once they lose a member of the team its a race to find out who they can trust as they work to figure out what is going on.
Most of the deaths are pretty mundane and lack the gore and violence as other horror films. The characters are rather one sided and fairly boring for the most part. Even with the simple plot there's the odd plot hole to detract from things. All in all it's decent at best, but not one of the better movies released. If anything, watch it for the twist at the end.
The movie is rather slow to get going as we spend time watching the group explore the rig. However once they lose a member of the team its a race to find out who they can trust as they work to figure out what is going on.
Most of the deaths are pretty mundane and lack the gore and violence as other horror films. The characters are rather one sided and fairly boring for the most part. Even with the simple plot there's the odd plot hole to detract from things. All in all it's decent at best, but not one of the better movies released. If anything, watch it for the twist at the end.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Frankenpooh
Before we start, this vhs opens with perhaps my favorite Disney opening ever. It's the old opening where sorceror Mickey has a ball of light come from his hand to swirl into the words Walt Disney as Home Video flies in underneath. Yay for nostalgia!
So. Onto the film. Piglet, Rabbit, Tigger, Gopher, and Winnie the Pooh have gathered at Piglet's where he proceeds to tell a Not-So-Scary story. However, Tigger finds it scary just how unscary this is. He proceeds to scare it up and takes over the story of the scientist and gives him the monster Frankenpooh.
Frankenpooh escapes the scientist, Von Piglet and proceeds to hunt down honey. The villagers form a mob and come for poor Piglet who took the story too seriously.
Moving along to the next short, a few residents of the 100 Acre Wood go in search of "Spookables" when they are awoken by a scary shadow and the sounds of moans. Through a series of mistaken identities. Tigger finally discovers a stuck Eeyore and helps free him. The others group up and are scared when the donkey flies free and lands near the group.
In the final short, the gang decides to go camping despite the thought of the "Grabme Gotcha" being loose in the woods. Rabbit insists that there is no such thing, though when Pooh and Piglet go missing, the others set off in search of them. Pooh seems to think that they are now on the moon...and goes off in search of the moon honey. All turns out right in the end, when Poohs odd brand of logic and Rabbits group finally encounter.
All in all, Frankenpooh is good fun for those who are fans of the lovable bear. This may not be Winnie the Pooh at his best, but it's certainly not his worst either. The animation is alright for a t.v show, and easier on the eyes than the more flashy and edgy ones of today. This however, is not for everyone especially if one does not care for lovable bears and sugary fun.
So. Onto the film. Piglet, Rabbit, Tigger, Gopher, and Winnie the Pooh have gathered at Piglet's where he proceeds to tell a Not-So-Scary story. However, Tigger finds it scary just how unscary this is. He proceeds to scare it up and takes over the story of the scientist and gives him the monster Frankenpooh.
Frankenpooh escapes the scientist, Von Piglet and proceeds to hunt down honey. The villagers form a mob and come for poor Piglet who took the story too seriously.
Moving along to the next short, a few residents of the 100 Acre Wood go in search of "Spookables" when they are awoken by a scary shadow and the sounds of moans. Through a series of mistaken identities. Tigger finally discovers a stuck Eeyore and helps free him. The others group up and are scared when the donkey flies free and lands near the group.
In the final short, the gang decides to go camping despite the thought of the "Grabme Gotcha" being loose in the woods. Rabbit insists that there is no such thing, though when Pooh and Piglet go missing, the others set off in search of them. Pooh seems to think that they are now on the moon...and goes off in search of the moon honey. All turns out right in the end, when Poohs odd brand of logic and Rabbits group finally encounter.
All in all, Frankenpooh is good fun for those who are fans of the lovable bear. This may not be Winnie the Pooh at his best, but it's certainly not his worst either. The animation is alright for a t.v show, and easier on the eyes than the more flashy and edgy ones of today. This however, is not for everyone especially if one does not care for lovable bears and sugary fun.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Halloweentown 4
The final installment in this series. This one however brings about a lot of changes, making it easily the weakest in the series.
To start with, Marnie is no longer played by Kimberly J. Brown, instead we get Sara Paxton. This adjustment is rather hard, and the character just isn't as much fun with a new actress. Sophie is completely absent from the movie, her character mentioned only in one line as to her whereabouts. Luke for some reason is still missing in action, and Debbie Reynolds only has about two minutes of screentime, which is quite sad since she is a large part of the enjoyment.
During this film the plot largely deals with Marnie and Dylan going to Witch University. However magic is against the rules and some members of the staff aren't what they seem. We get a trio of antagonists in the form of the Sinister sisters, who take delight in tormenting Marnie and use Dylan to their advantage.
Returning friends include a rather corny Benny and Ethan Dalloway from the previous installment. We also get a new. Also joining in is Aneesa the Genie to lend a hand as Marnie's new friend. Rounding out the villains is the evil Dominion yet another group who shows up in this sequel with very few ties, if any to the previous films.
In this movie Judith Hoag provides a lot of comedic moments as she tries to keep in touch with her children. Hopefully if any future sequels come out they will be able to get most of the original cast back and shy away from the more overly poor jokes.
To start with, Marnie is no longer played by Kimberly J. Brown, instead we get Sara Paxton. This adjustment is rather hard, and the character just isn't as much fun with a new actress. Sophie is completely absent from the movie, her character mentioned only in one line as to her whereabouts. Luke for some reason is still missing in action, and Debbie Reynolds only has about two minutes of screentime, which is quite sad since she is a large part of the enjoyment.
During this film the plot largely deals with Marnie and Dylan going to Witch University. However magic is against the rules and some members of the staff aren't what they seem. We get a trio of antagonists in the form of the Sinister sisters, who take delight in tormenting Marnie and use Dylan to their advantage.
Returning friends include a rather corny Benny and Ethan Dalloway from the previous installment. We also get a new. Also joining in is Aneesa the Genie to lend a hand as Marnie's new friend. Rounding out the villains is the evil Dominion yet another group who shows up in this sequel with very few ties, if any to the previous films.
In this movie Judith Hoag provides a lot of comedic moments as she tries to keep in touch with her children. Hopefully if any future sequels come out they will be able to get most of the original cast back and shy away from the more overly poor jokes.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Halloweentown 3
This time around we find that Marnie has bet all of her families magic that humans are now much more tolerant in regards to the residents of Halloweentown. She has until midnight on Halloween to prove this, and is given charge of a group of students from Halloweentown who pose as exchange students from...Canada. Which makes me sigh a bit.
Anyways. The villains this time around are the evil Knights of the Iron dagger and are brand new to the world we know already. This makes things rather hard to believe, since the previously unknown knights are supposed to be perilous to us. However the "mystery" around them is all too easily figured out and really lacking compared to the previous films.
The story itself is good enough to make it an acceptable movie, but it nowhere near surpasses the first two. Some characters like Benny the cabbie and Luke are missing entirely, while Sophie receives a much smaller role and is only in a handful of scenes.
As for the rest of the characters returning for this third trip, they are still at their best. Kimberly J Brown is at the top of her game as Marnie by this point and Debbie Reynolds continues to shine as a highlight of these films.
Worth a watch for those interested in some light hearted Halloween fare, but you won't miss out on anything amazing either if you decide to skip it.
Anyways. The villains this time around are the evil Knights of the Iron dagger and are brand new to the world we know already. This makes things rather hard to believe, since the previously unknown knights are supposed to be perilous to us. However the "mystery" around them is all too easily figured out and really lacking compared to the previous films.
The story itself is good enough to make it an acceptable movie, but it nowhere near surpasses the first two. Some characters like Benny the cabbie and Luke are missing entirely, while Sophie receives a much smaller role and is only in a handful of scenes.
As for the rest of the characters returning for this third trip, they are still at their best. Kimberly J Brown is at the top of her game as Marnie by this point and Debbie Reynolds continues to shine as a highlight of these films.
Worth a watch for those interested in some light hearted Halloween fare, but you won't miss out on anything amazing either if you decide to skip it.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Halloweentown 2
A couple years after the events of Halloweentown, we find that Aggie is living with Marnie and has been spending her time teaching her magic.
After Aggie becomes concerned over a disruption in her communication with Halloweentown, she and Marnie venture off for a quick check-in on the residents. Upon arriving they find that the town is under a powerful spell turning everything and everyone gray and normal. Once again, they have to wage their magics against an evil force to set things right.
This time around Luke from the previous film gains a larger role, while Aggie has a much smaller part to play sadly. Both of Marnie's siblings Dylan and Sophie are around but also to a lesser degree.
The script is more solid than the previous and the effects and costumes also slightly improved since the previous one. There are still a few flaws floating around, but it is still quite an enjoyable film and perhaps even surpasses the first film in terms of quality.
After Aggie becomes concerned over a disruption in her communication with Halloweentown, she and Marnie venture off for a quick check-in on the residents. Upon arriving they find that the town is under a powerful spell turning everything and everyone gray and normal. Once again, they have to wage their magics against an evil force to set things right.
This time around Luke from the previous film gains a larger role, while Aggie has a much smaller part to play sadly. Both of Marnie's siblings Dylan and Sophie are around but also to a lesser degree.
The script is more solid than the previous and the effects and costumes also slightly improved since the previous one. There are still a few flaws floating around, but it is still quite an enjoyable film and perhaps even surpasses the first film in terms of quality.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Halloweentown
Halloweentown! One of the movies I remember growing up with as a kid, this film has a certain nostalgic value to it.
The movie centers around Marnie Cromwell, who has a love for Halloween and all the weird things that come with it. However, her mother seems to have the opposite mindset in regards to it. After a visit from her eccentric grandmother, Aggie, Marnie and her siblings follow her home to Halloweentown after they find out that Marnie is a witch.
However, not all is alright in Halloweentown as an evil force is changing the citizens. When Aggie and their mother (who followed close behind) are captured, they kids have to band together to set things right and use a powerful spell to banish the dark force.
While it is quite enjoyable as a whole, some of the digital effects and dialogue is rather poor. The acting is quite tolerable, save for Debbie Reynolds as Aggie Cromwell who is extremely fun and a highlight of the film. While it may not be an excellent film, it is definitely a staple in my viewing around Halloween and can be quite charming.
The movie centers around Marnie Cromwell, who has a love for Halloween and all the weird things that come with it. However, her mother seems to have the opposite mindset in regards to it. After a visit from her eccentric grandmother, Aggie, Marnie and her siblings follow her home to Halloweentown after they find out that Marnie is a witch.
However, not all is alright in Halloweentown as an evil force is changing the citizens. When Aggie and their mother (who followed close behind) are captured, they kids have to band together to set things right and use a powerful spell to banish the dark force.
While it is quite enjoyable as a whole, some of the digital effects and dialogue is rather poor. The acting is quite tolerable, save for Debbie Reynolds as Aggie Cromwell who is extremely fun and a highlight of the film. While it may not be an excellent film, it is definitely a staple in my viewing around Halloween and can be quite charming.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Halloween 2 (Remake)
The final entry in Rob Zombie's remakes takes place just moments after the first ended. Laurie is rushed to the hospital where she is tended to. After a nightmare, which I took for reality the first time, we find that it has been nearly two years since that night when Michael came home.
Over the course of the movie Laurie has vastly changed from how she was in the first movie. In this, she is much more short tempered, lashing out at both her therapist and her best friend Annie who also barely survived the first movie. This is where a problem pops up for me, this new Laurie is just really hard to fully care about. While her situation does suck, and she's been through a lot, seeing her lash out and go down a darker path makes me lean more towards rooting for Sheriff Bracket and Annie.
Dr. Loomis in this film has also changed for the worst, putting out a new book and becoming both and rich and famous off the events of the first film. Though he does slightly redeem himself in the end. Does it make up for everything he pulled in this film? Not really, but the attempt is nice to see.
Michael in this film is just as brutally violent as the previous, though in this one we actually see his face as an adult. This sort of ruins things for me, it is nowhere near as intimidating as seeing the expressionless mask that he is known best for.
Lauries new friends, much like the rest of the victims in this film are mostly just filler as Michael hacks his way to Laurie. The characters get little time to develop and it's pretty obvious what's going to be happening with them.
Like the previous film, this one is middling for me. It still retains all the extremes of the first, though the larger downside is making it harder to care about our main character with the change in their personality. All in all, a watchable film though if you aren't too willing to sit through an Unrated Directors Cut, be sure to look for the normal version of the film.
Over the course of the movie Laurie has vastly changed from how she was in the first movie. In this, she is much more short tempered, lashing out at both her therapist and her best friend Annie who also barely survived the first movie. This is where a problem pops up for me, this new Laurie is just really hard to fully care about. While her situation does suck, and she's been through a lot, seeing her lash out and go down a darker path makes me lean more towards rooting for Sheriff Bracket and Annie.
Dr. Loomis in this film has also changed for the worst, putting out a new book and becoming both and rich and famous off the events of the first film. Though he does slightly redeem himself in the end. Does it make up for everything he pulled in this film? Not really, but the attempt is nice to see.
Michael in this film is just as brutally violent as the previous, though in this one we actually see his face as an adult. This sort of ruins things for me, it is nowhere near as intimidating as seeing the expressionless mask that he is known best for.
Lauries new friends, much like the rest of the victims in this film are mostly just filler as Michael hacks his way to Laurie. The characters get little time to develop and it's pretty obvious what's going to be happening with them.
Like the previous film, this one is middling for me. It still retains all the extremes of the first, though the larger downside is making it harder to care about our main character with the change in their personality. All in all, a watchable film though if you aren't too willing to sit through an Unrated Directors Cut, be sure to look for the normal version of the film.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Halloween (Remake)
One of many remakes in the Horror genre, Halloween is helmed by none other than Rob Zombie who brings his.....unique...direction to one of the most popular slashers.
We start out before the bulk of the story takes place, and get to explore the roots of Michael Myers'. This is where I'm iffy. I do enjoy the initiative to explore him a bit, but I think the way Zombie went about it was a bit wrong. To me, Michael being a product of the environment we see is too predictable and obvious. Compare that to seeing a sweet innocent child from a normal home become the iconic slasher. The latter is much more scary in my opinion.
Following the exploration into Michael's past we arrive at present day. After the security guard royally messes things up, Michael escapes from his imprisonment after wreaking a bit of havoc. Quickly, he begins to head for Haddonfield where his younger sister Laurie Strode lives with her adopted family.
This is where things start to become a lot more familiar for those of us who have seen the original. While there is still a lot of differences, viewers can easily guess who's going to be getting brutally attacked next.
In the end, this movie is middling for me. The story, new ideas and characters are pretty good for me. However I do have a problem with the fact that Rob Zombie takes everything to extreme levels. Swearing, derogatory terms, and sexually explicit language seem to make up the bulk of the dialogue, violence and blood is also taken to extremes. The movie will probably be enjoyed by fans of Rob Zombie, or by those able to push past the things I myself did not enjoy.
We start out before the bulk of the story takes place, and get to explore the roots of Michael Myers'. This is where I'm iffy. I do enjoy the initiative to explore him a bit, but I think the way Zombie went about it was a bit wrong. To me, Michael being a product of the environment we see is too predictable and obvious. Compare that to seeing a sweet innocent child from a normal home become the iconic slasher. The latter is much more scary in my opinion.
Following the exploration into Michael's past we arrive at present day. After the security guard royally messes things up, Michael escapes from his imprisonment after wreaking a bit of havoc. Quickly, he begins to head for Haddonfield where his younger sister Laurie Strode lives with her adopted family.
This is where things start to become a lot more familiar for those of us who have seen the original. While there is still a lot of differences, viewers can easily guess who's going to be getting brutally attacked next.
In the end, this movie is middling for me. The story, new ideas and characters are pretty good for me. However I do have a problem with the fact that Rob Zombie takes everything to extreme levels. Swearing, derogatory terms, and sexually explicit language seem to make up the bulk of the dialogue, violence and blood is also taken to extremes. The movie will probably be enjoyed by fans of Rob Zombie, or by those able to push past the things I myself did not enjoy.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Mickey's Treat
It's October, which means the Halloween marathon is kicking into gear today! Going to start out with something most people won't watch, at least if they do not have young children.
So. Mickey's Treat. Much like "Enchanted Tales" this show is much more enjoyable as a young child. The basic...story is that Mickey and the crew are going to Pete's Halloween party. On a regular basis the story halts so that he can ask for the viewers help. Very slowly we make our way over the Candy Corn Patch and through the spooky woods. Upon arriving at the Tower, Mickey pulls a rabbit out of his hat to help them gain entry to the party. Nowhere near the best of Halloween specials that we've seen from Disney, especially compared to Disney's Halloween Treat.
Avoid it unless you're a hard-core Disney fan, Halloween fan or just can't help the curiousity and check it out.
So. Mickey's Treat. Much like "Enchanted Tales" this show is much more enjoyable as a young child. The basic...story is that Mickey and the crew are going to Pete's Halloween party. On a regular basis the story halts so that he can ask for the viewers help. Very slowly we make our way over the Candy Corn Patch and through the spooky woods. Upon arriving at the Tower, Mickey pulls a rabbit out of his hat to help them gain entry to the party. Nowhere near the best of Halloween specials that we've seen from Disney, especially compared to Disney's Halloween Treat.
Avoid it unless you're a hard-core Disney fan, Halloween fan or just can't help the curiousity and check it out.
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