It’s that time of year — Halloween. This is the time when we cinephiles are expected to sit down nightly with a big bowl of candy and good, scary horror movies on the screen. In honor of that, here’s a few holiday-specific titles that should get some time in the ol’ DVD player this year:
“Halloween II”
The first “Halloween” by John Carpenter popularized the slasher genre, but it’s the second one that dives deeper into the actual holiday for which it’s named. “Halloween II” picks up immediately after the end of the first, and a good part of it takes place out on the streets. This gives us a better look at the trick-or-treaters taking part in the holiday traditions. Inferior, but possibly the most Halloween-y “Halloween.”
“Hocus Pocus”
This family-friendly entry has developed a following over the years. Telling the story of three witches wreaking havoc in a small town, it does a great job at capturing the magic and fun of the season, especially for children. At times it may be a little iffy for the young ones, but that just makes it a great movie to cut their teeth on. It’ll be a good lead-in to showing them …
“Trick ‘r Treat”
Sadly this one got completely dumped and to this day is overlooked. But this is the exact time of year to be watching it, because not only is it a great interwoven horror anthology, it might do the best job of capturing the very essence of Halloween yet. Every story in the film finds its basis from a list of holiday “do-nots,” showing the consequences when rules are broken. Viewing it should absolutely be a tradition for everyone.
Any other movies you guys like to watch around this time? Sound off!