As the spooky splendor of Halloween looms closer, what better time to indulge in some cinematic treats of shadow filled scares? While the actual number of films depicting Halloween itself is fewer then the plethora of Christmas day based movie offerings, the films celebrating the themes of Halloween are sufficient to keep one glued to the screen throughout October.
NOSFERATU – Dracula has been given a number of cinematic incarnations. Bela Lugosi’s Count for the Universal movie was an elegant stranger of sinister appearence, while Christopher Lee’s Dracula in the Hammer film series was an athletic aristocrat devoid of mercy. But Max Shreck was the first to appear as the dreaded vampire in the German expressionest silent film version, Nosferatu, which stole Stoker’s story but changed the name in an attempt to avoid paying for the story rights. Shreck’s vampire is a bald, pointy eared monster practically devoid of all humanity. The film makes great use of shadows for mood and has numerous startling scenes such as Nosferatu’s ascent of a stairway or almost magical rise from his coffin – which you’ve probably seen recycled via various programs. A true horror gem and well worth seeing even if silent films aren’t your thing.
PSYCHO – Alfred Hitchcock’s chilling study of insanity was made in black and white on a low budget. Hitchcock brings horror to everyday America by setting the tale in a run down motel one might have passed while traveling a dozen times without noticing. But oh, the secret terrors held by the Bates Motel! Anthony Perkins is fabulous as the sensitve but disturbed Norman Bates, who has more then a few mother issues.
THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES (1959) – Peter Cushing makes a dashing Sherlock Holmes in this adaption of the literary classic by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Its both a favorite Holmes and Hammer film of mine. There’s a ghastly legend, a monsterous hound supposedly causing havoc on a forlorn moor embodied by a beautifully desolate landscape, and cool British character actors, so how can you go wrong?
THE MAN WITH A CLOAK – This 1951 black and white production starring Joseph Cotton as a mysterious man attempting to aid a young woman who finds herself amid sundry characters seeking to make her father-in-law’s fortune their own. The story takes place in October of 1848 and features a Halloween celebration customary to its New York setting. The film relies on shadows and suspense, while aiming to surprise with a twist ending.
ARSENIC AND OLD LACE – See how the crazy Brewster clan spend their Halloween. Even though their house is right next to the grave yard, there are plenty of bodies in the basement – thanks to the poisoning pastime indulged in by the elderly female members of the family. A mad cap black comedy that maintains a frenzied pitch with a lot of funny moments.
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW – Perhaps the ultimate cult film makes use of the classic creepy old house premise and assorted strange people within. Fun tunes and outrageous performances make for first rate entertainment. I believe it was once described as The Sound of Music on acid.
Such a list could go on and on, but I think these five would make great Halloween viewing. If you’re familiar with some, I hope the thought of them has given you a smile and if some are new to you, I hope you’ll consider checking them out. Happy viewing!
Source:
http://williamrigler.wordpress.com/2013/10/07/cinematic-treats-for-halloween/
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