The Woman in the Yard (2025) Danielle Deadwyler, Peyton Jackson, Estella Kahiha, Okwui Okpokwasili, Russell Hornsby Directed by: Jaume Collet-Serra
I’m always weary about Blumhouse pictures. They can be really good, but they can also be total shite. This one seems to fall somewhere in the middle.
When a mysterious woman giving cryptic warnings appears in the yard of a recently widowed mother of 2 children, she must fight the ever-increasing threat the woman poses.
Grief as horror is a slightly tired trope by now, but there’s no denying that if it’s done right, it can pack a punch. This one doesn’t quite get there. The acting was mostly ok except for a few scenes with the youngest daughter doing her impression of a block of wood. But a good quarter, maybe more, of the film is literally just the mother telling her son not to do something and him ignoring her. It got real old, real fast. The Woman does cut an imposing figure, but this is a PG-13 film, so there’s not much horror to be had. It’s mostly a psychological drama with some supernatural elements.
SPOILERS INCOMING (and trigger warning: suicide)
I had guessed at the beginning of the film that the mother was the woman, at least part of the time. Having her be an extension of the mother’s grief could have been a good idea in the hands of a better filmmaker. And I wasn’t a fan of the end. Now I’ve seen other people say that because the painting was so big and the backwards writing was so small that she didn’t kill herself, but the grief is still there, just under control. But most people, myself included, think that she did pull that trigger and this is either heaven or her mind just before she dies. Which is HORRIBLE. As someone who’s had severe depression and suicidal thoughts, this movie is borderline irresponsible in saying that her happy ending was at the end of a gun. The suicide prevention blurb at the end of the film was not enough to undo that.
So do I recommend it? Meh, not really, unless you’re a Blumhouse completionist. It gets a very mid 5/10 from me.
The Vigil (2019) Dave Davis, Menashe Lustig, Lynn Cohen, Malky Goldman, Ronald Cohen, Fred Melamed (v.o.) Directed by: Keith Thomas
This movie had been in my Shudder watchlist for literal years. I just never watched it. I finally did and it wasn’t really anything special.
A man providing overnight watch to a deceased member of his former Orthodox Jewish community finds himself opposite a malevolent entity.
So first, I know absolutely nothing about Jewish culture. I got the basic drift of what was happening though. The film is half in Hebrew, so there’s some subtitles to read. The biggest problem I had with the film is that everything was always so slow. The man’s reaction times to things that are happening seems to be stretched out. Static shots on something that might move (i.e. is that body going to move?) were really really long. It felt almost like the filmmakers were trying to pad the runtime of the film. It clocks in at 89 minutes, so maybe they felt that by doing this, they’d have a decent runtime. But it just made most of the movie unbearably boring most of the time.
The acting was fine, nothing special, but fine. The makeup, however, was pretty bad. The demon hands you see near the end of the film were laughable. I don’t know if they meant to have it look so DIY, but it really does look like something I could make in my basement. It was competently shot, except of course the aforementioned long shots. I will give it credit for an interesting idea, though. A demon that feeds on pain could make a great movie. Just not this one.
So do I recommend it? Not really. There’s nothing here that I’d really say needs to be seen. Best to skip this one. It gets a 4/10 from me.
M.
This film is currently streaming on Shudder and Amazon Prime.
The Mortuary Assistant (2026) Willa Holland, Paul Sparks, John Adams, Keena Ferguson Frasier, Mark Steger, Emily Bennett Directed by: Jeremiah Kipp
This movie just dropped on Shudder a few days ago. I had no idea what it was, and the blurb made it sound like a generic possession film, with the same basic premise as The Possession of Hannah Grace. But since I’m a sucker for possession films, I decided to give it a go. And oh boy…
Rebecca is a newly appointed mortician and gets a call from her boss that he needs her for a night shift. When she arrives, strange things begin to happen, and she finds herself in a life-or-death struggle with a demon.
I’d heard this was based on a video game before watching it. But since I’d had a good time with Until Dawn recently, I decided to give this one a go. What a mistake. This film is awful, bordering on embarrassing. The lead gave such a one-note performance, and the man who played her boss was literally made out of wood. It was a confused, jumbled mess, with scenes that had nothing to do with each kind of stitched together. I don’t need every little thing spelled out for me in a film, but a little would be nice. Even the exposition dump that we got didn’t explain anything. I imagine that if I’d played the game, I might have understood a bit of what was going on. But you shouldn’t have to have played the game to understand the film. The film should stand on its own. I will give credit where credit is due, however. The makeup and gore effects were top notch. Too bad they were in such a turd of a film.
So do I recommend it? No, absolutely not. What a waste of my time. 3/10
These were incredibly hard to rank, harder than any other decade, because this is the decade that I grew up in and started to mold my mind into what kind of media I’d like for the rest of my life. I saw most of these films before I was 10 years old (yes, I was probably too young for some of them), and they’re imprinted permanently into my brain. It was very hard to keep the list to 30 (not as hard as it was in the upcoming 90s list, but still). So here they are, my top 30 movies of the 80s!
Number 30
Title:Weird Science Year: 1985 Plot: Two high-school nerds use a computer program to literally create the perfect woman, who promptly turns their lives upside-down. Starring: Ilan Mitchell-Smith, Anthony Michael Hall, Kelly LeBrock, Suzanne Snyder, Judie Aronson, Bill Paxton, Robert Downey Jr Directed by: John Hughes Based on: The comic book Weird Science #5: Made of the Future by Al Feldstein Notes: Yes, it’s got some problematic things in it, but this film is so much fun! A classic teen movie (made way before I was a teen) that just makes me laugh. Plus, it’s fun to see Bill Paxton (rip) and Robert Downey Jr in early roles.
Number 29
Title:The Secret of NIMH Year: 1982 Plot: To save her ill son, a field mouse must seek the aid of a colony of rats, with whom she has a deeper link than she suspected. Starring: Elizabeth Hartman, Derek Jacobi, Dom DeLuise, Peter Strauss, Arthur Malet, Hermione Baddeley, Shannen Doherty, Wil Wheaton, John Carradine, Paul Shenar Directed by: Don Bluth Based on: The book Mrs Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C O’Brien Notes: One of my absolute favourites growing up. I kept on wanting it higher on the list, but there are simply too many amazing movies from this decade! Also, I had no idea that Shannen Doherty (rip) and Wil Wheaton were the voices of two of the Brisby kids!
Number 28
Title:Ghostbusters Year: 1984 Plot: Armed with proton packs, four paranormal investigators battle mischievous ghouls in New York. Starring: Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, Annie Potts, Rick Moranis, William Atherton, Slavitza Jovan Directed by: Ivan Reitman Based on: An original screenplay written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis Notes: What can I say about this film? It’s an absolute classic! It never fails to make me laugh.
Number 27
Title:Silver Bullet Year: 1985 Plot: In a small town, brutal killings start to plague the close-knit community. Marty Coslaw, a paraplegic boy, is convinced the murders are the doings of a werewolf. Starring: Corey Haim, Gary Busey, Everett McGill, Megan Follows, Robin Groves, Leon Russom, Terry O’Quinn, Bill Smitrovich Directed by: Daniel Attias Based on: The novella Cycle of the Werewolf by Stephen King Notes: Corey Haim (rip) was one of the first actors that I remember really having a crush on when I was a kid after seeing him in The Lost Boys and Watchers. He’s much younger in this film, but still adorable. The film itself is fun, and the werewolf effects were pretty good for the time. I miss practical effects…
Number 26
Title:The Serpent and the Rainbow Year: 1988 Plot: An anthropologist goes to Haiti to research a drug that makes someone appear dead by suspending all vital signs. Starring: Bill Pullman, Cathy Tyson, Zakes Mokae, Paul Winfield, Michael Gough, Brent Jennings, Conrad Roberts, Badja Djola Directed by: Wes Craven Based on: The non-fiction book The Serpent and the Rainbow by Wade Davis Notes: The author famously hated the film, and it faced some serious backlash for its fictionalized portrayal of Haitian Vodou and the Haitians in general. But, and I may be wrong here, it’s a fictional movie. It never pretends to be a true story. I loved this film, I thought it was a very neat and different angle to the zombie story.
Number 25
Title:Warlock Year: 1989 Plot: A warlock flees from the 17th to the 20th century, with a witch-hunter in hot pursuit. Starring: Julian Sands, Richard E Grant, Lori Singer, Mary Woronov, Kevin O’Brien Directed by: Steve Miner Based on: An original screenplay written by David Twohy Notes: This film is so good. The film takes its subject matter seriously, even though the premise is kind of silly. Wonderfully campy and acted better than most movies in its genre, it’s definitely a gem of the 80’s. And Julian Sands (rip), my goodness. One of my very first crushes on a grownup. I can still picture tween me watching this with hearts in my eyes, hehe.
Number 24
Title:Pet Sematary Year: 1989 Plot: After tragedy strikes, a grieving father discovers an ancient burial ground behind his home with the power to raise the dead. Starring: Dale Midkiff, Denise Crosby, Fred Gwynne, Brad Greenquist, Miko Hughes, Michael Lombard, Blaze Berdahl Directed by: Mary Lambert Based on: The book Pet Sematary by Stephen King Notes:Pet Sematary is one of my favourite Stephen King books, and this happens to be a great adaptation. Sure, they changed some things, but on the whole, they did an awesome job. It’s sure to give you goosebumps!
Number 23
Title:Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Year: 1989 Plot: In 1938, after his father goes missing while pursuing the Holy Grail, Indiana Jones finds himself up against the Nazis again to stop them from obtaining its powers. Starring: Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Alison Doody, Denholm Elliott, John Rhys-Davies, Julian Glover, River Phoenix Directed by: Steven Spielberg Based on: An original screenplay written by Jeffrey Boam Notes: The best of the three Indiana Jones films, this is the only one that I still rewatch from time to time. Fun and sometimes tense, this is a wonderful conclusion to the story. (Yes, I’m fully aware there’s more, I just don’t acknowledge them). The addition of Sean Connery (rip) as Indy’s dad is wonderful. They really seem like a father and son.
Number 22
Title:Rock & Rule Year: 1983 Plot: A malevolent rock star kidnaps a singer to force her to participate in the summoning of a demon, and her band must help her stop him. Starring: Don Francks, Susan Roman, Paul Le Mat, Dan Hennessey, Greg Duffell, Chris Wiggins, Brent Titcomb, Catherine Gallant, Catherine O’Hara Directed by: Clive A Smith Based on: Loosely based on the short story The Devil and Daniel Webster by Stephen Vincent Benét Notes: I don’t remember how I came to see this film. I know we didn’t own the vhs. Maybe taped off of late night tv? In any case, this little, mostly forgotten Canadian film is, in my opinion, the very best in the genre. Forget the much over-rated Heavy Metal, this adult cartoon is where it’s at. Awesome animation, kick ass soundtrack, and great story, this is a must-see for anyone who likes adult animation.
Number 21
Title:From Beyond Year: 1986 Plot: A group of scientists have developed the Resonator, a machine which allows whoever is within range to see beyond normal perceptible reality. But when the experiment succeeds, they are immediately attacked by terrible life forms. Starring: Jeffrey Combs, Barbara Crampton, Ken Foree, Ted Sorel, Carolyn Purdy-Gordon Directed by: Stuart Gordon Based on: The short story From Beyond by HP Lovecraft Notes: I tend to love adaptations of Lovecraft’s works even when they aren’t that good. This one is great, with a wonderful lead performance by Jeffrey Combs (the go-to actor for Lovecraft adaptations). The practical effects are stunning and hold up well, even today.
Number 20
Title:Beetlejuice Year: 1988 Plot: The spirits of a deceased couple are harassed by an unbearable family that has moved into their home, and hire a malicious spirit to drive them out. Starring: Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Jeffrey Jones, Glenn Shadix Directed by: Tim Burton Based on: An original screenplay written by Michael McDowell and Larry Wilson Notes: Back when Tim Burton was still at the top of his game. So much fun, completely off the wall bonkers, and I love every second of it. It’s wickedly funny with awesome practical effects, it’s been one of my favourites since I was a kid.
Number 19
Title:Return to Oz Year: 1985 Plot: Dorothy Gale (who’s somehow much younger now), saved from a psychiatric experiment by a mysterious girl, is somehow called back to Oz when a vain witch and the Nome King destroy everything that makes the magical land beautiful. Starring: Fairuza Balk, Nicol Williamson, Jean Marsh, Piper Laurie, Sean Barrett, Denise Bryer, Brian Henson, Lyle Conway, Justin Case, John Alexander, Deep Roy, Emma Ridley, Tansy the Dog Directed by: Walter Murch Based on: The books Ozma of Oz and The Land of Oz by L Frank Baum Notes: It’s not often a sequel is better than the first film, but this one definitely is. It’s crazy on so many levels, and shit-your-pants terrifying in others, they simply don’t make them like this anymore. What a shame.
Number 18
Title:Amadeus Year: 1984 Plot: The life, music, and death of musical prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Starring: Tom Hulce, F Murray Abraham, Elizabeth Berridge, Roy Dotrice, Simon Callow, Christine Ebersole, Jeffrey Jones, Charles Kay Directed by: Milos Forman Based on: The play Amadeus written by Peter Shaffer, also based on a true story… more or less Notes: I knew going into it that it wasn’t historically accurate. And do I care? Not a lick. I know a biopic is supposed to tell a true story, and I’m sorry that people might think that this is the way things actually went down, but I’ll be damned if I don’t just love this film to pieces. Fart jokes and all.
Number 17
Title:Moonstruck Year: 1987 Plot: Loretta Castorini, a bookkeeper from Brooklyn, finds herself in a difficult situation when she falls for the brother of the man she has agreed to marry. Starring: Cher, Nicolas Cage, Olympia Dukakis, Vincent Gardenia, Danny Aiello, John Mahoney Directed by: Norman Jewison Based on: An original screenplay written by John Patrick Shanley Notes: I absolutely love this film. Cher is wonderful (and disgustingly beautiful) as Loretta, and her chemistry with Nicolas Cage’s Ronnie is electric. This is one of my very favourite chick flicks.
Number 16
Title:The Neverending Story Year: 1984 Plot: Troubled Bastian “borrows” a book from a bookstore and dives into the world of Fantasia where a dark Nothing is destroying everything. The only one who can save the day is young warrior Atreyu. Starring: Noah Hathaway, Barret Oliver, Alan Oppenheimer, Tami Stronach, Sydney Bromley, Patricia Hayes, Deep Roy, Tilo Prückner, Moses Gunn, Thomas Hill, Gerald McRaney, Alma the Horse Directed by: Wolfgang Petersen Based on: The book Die Unendliche Geschichte by Michael Ende Notes: This was one of my favourites as a kid, and it’s still now. I’m surprised it’s not higher on my list because I literally wore the vhs out, but that just goes to show how awesome 80s films were. Despite some of the acting being rather shaky (especially the Child-like Empress, yikes), this film is simply marvelous. Fantasia is beautiful, most of the practical effects are cool, and while it’s quite different from the book, the story is still amazing, even today. Noah Hathaway as Atreyu was my very first movie crush, and remained so until I passed the character in age, about 7 years later.
Number 15
Title:Ladyhawke Year: 1985 Plot: An evil Bishop curses a woman and her lover when she rejects him. With the help of a sly thief, they will travel back to the Bishop and try break the curse. Starring: Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer, Michelle Pfeiffer, Leo McKern, John Wood, Ken Hutchison, Giancarlo Prete, Alfred Molina Directed by: Richard Donner Based on: An original screenplay written by Edward Khmara, Michael de Guzman, Tom Mankiewicz, and David Peoples Notes: Such a beautiful film. Nauseatingly romantic, this film has a bit for everyone. Schmoop, laughter, action, and drama, this is simply a wonderful, wonderful film.
Number 14
Title: The Great Mouse Detective Year: 1986 Plot: Detective Basil of Baker Street investigates the kidnapping of a toy maker and uncovers its link to his archenemy, Professor Ratigan. Starring: Barrie Ingham, Vincent Price, Val Bettin, Susanne Pollatschek, Candy Candido, Alan Young, Diana Chesney Directed by: Ron Clements, Burny Mattinson, Dave Michener, John Musker Based on: The book series Basil of Baker Street by Eve Titus Notes: One of my very favourite Disney films, surpassed only by one, which is later in the list. I absolutely love this little mousey version of Sherlock Holmes, and Vincent Price (rip) as the villain? Of course he is. No one could have done it better.
Number 13
Title:A Nightmare on Elm Street Year: 1984 Plot: In the dreams of his victims, a spectral child murderer stalks the children of the members of the lynch mob that killed him. Starring: Heather Langenkamp, Robert Englund, Johnny Depp, Amanda Wyss, Nick Corri, Charles Fleischer, John Saxon, Ronee Blakley Directed by: Wes Craven Based on: An original screenplay written by Wes Craven, although he was heavily inspired by real-life news reports of refugees dying in their sleep from extreme nightmares, often referred to as Sudden Unexpected Nocturnal Death Syndrome. Notes: This was the very first horror movie I ever saw, which means I was just a wee thing (only 3 or 4 years old) when I partially saw it from where I was hiding while my cousins, who thought I was in bed, were watching. And it’s stuck with me ever since, still one of my favourites, even with the sometimes laughable acting and effects. When a movie is this good, lots of stuff can be over-looked!
Number 12
Title:Poltergeist Year: 1982 Plot: A young family are visited by ghosts in their home. At first the ghosts appear friendly, moving objects around the house to the amusement of everyone, then they turn nasty and start to terrorize the family before they kidnap the youngest daughter. Starring: Craig T Nelson, JoBeth Williams, Beatrice Straight, Heather O’Rourke, Dominique Dunne, Oliver Robins, Martin Casella, Zelda Rubinstein Directed by: Tobe Hooper Based on: An original screenplay written by Steven Spielberg, Michael Grais, and Mark Victor, although they were heavily inspired by the supposed true haunting of the Hermann family in Long Island, in 1958. Notes: An absolute classic of the genre, it’s still one of the very best haunted house films ever made, even 44 years later. Also, I hate clowns, even toy ones *shudder*
Number 11
Title: The Princess Bride Year: 1987 Plot: While home sick in bed, a young boy’s grandfather reads him a story called The Princess Bride, about a young woman, believing her true love to be dead, who settles with marrying a wicked prince. When her love turns out to be alive, he sets about rescuing her from the prince’s clutches. Starring: Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, Robin Wright, Chris Sarandon, André the Giant, Christopher Guest, Wallace Shawn, Peter Falk, Fred Savage, Peter Cook, Mel Smith, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane Directed by: Rob Reiner Based on: The book The Princess Bride by William Goldman Notes: This film is both schmoopy and full of adventures, perfect for kids and adults alike. And one more thing: Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.
Number 10
Title:The Goonies Year: 1985 Plot: After finding out that his family will loose their home to an unscrupulous developer who’s buying up the neighbourhood to tear everything down and build a golf course, a teen and his friends make a pact to find a hidden treasure of legend in a local cave. Starring: Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman, Jeff Cohen, Kerri Green, Martha Plimpton, Ke Huy Quan, John Matuszak, Robert Davi, Joe Pantoliano, Anne Ramsey Directed by: Richard Donner Based on: An original screenplay written by Chris Columbus, based on a story by Steven Spielberg Notes: I can’t count the number of times I watched this as a kid. It’s so much fun with lots to appeal to both kids and adults. Adventure, danger, traps, and even a little romance.
Number 9
Title:Near Dark Year: 1987 Plot: After being bit by a beautiful vampire, a young man is given an ultimatum by her family: make a kill within a week, or die. When he realizes he can’t kill, he and the girl run off, with her family in hot pursuit. Starring: Adrian Pasdar, Jenny Wright, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, Jenette Goldstein, Joshua John Miller, Tom Thomerson Directed by: Kathryn Bigelow Based on: An original screenplay written by Kathryn Bigelow and Eric Red Notes: The other vampire film that came out in 1987, this one is decidedly more adult, and was criminally overlooked. I saw this for the first time as a teenager, and it had everything a teenage girl could possibly want. Romance, eye candy, and lots and lots of blood. Oh yeah!
Number 8
Title:Willow Year: 1988 Plot: A reluctant dwarf must play a critical role in protecting a special baby from an evil queen. Starring: Warwick Davis, Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley, Jean Marsh, Patricia Hayes, Billy Barty, Kevin Pollak, Rick Overton, Pat Roach, Gavan O’Herlihy, David Steinberg, Phil Fondacaro Directed by: Ron Howard Based on: An original screenplay by Bob Dolman, based on a story by George Lucas Notes: Such a wonderful, beautiful story. Good acting and surprisingly good effects for its time, it still holds up very well today. Plus, Val Kilmer (rip) is smokin’ hot as Madmartigan, who was one of my very first adult crushes.
Number 7
Title:Aliens Year: 1986 Plot: Decades after surviving the Nostromo incident, Ellen Ripley is sent out to re-establish contact with a terraforming colony but finds herself battling the Alien Queen and her offspring. Starring: Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Carrie Henn, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, Paul Reiser, Jenette Goldstein, William Hope, Al Matthews Directed by: James Cameron Based on: An original screenplay written by James Cameron, although he acknowledged inspiration from Robert A Heinlein’s novel Starship Troopers Notes: Simply the best space/alien movie ever, full stop. I saw this (probably way too young) on tv when I was about 8 or 9 and have loved it since then. Action packed and tense, with killer effects, this film rocks!
Number 6
Title:The Black Cauldron Year: 1985 Plot: A young boy and a group of misfit friends embark on a quest to find a dark magic item of ultimate power before a diabolical tyrant can. Starring: Grant Bardsley, Susan Sheridan, Freddie Jones, Nigel Hawthorne, John Byner, Arthur Malet, Phil Fondacaro, John Hurt Directed by: Ted Berman, Richard Rich Based on: The first two books in The Chronicles of Prydain series by Lloyd Alexander, titled The Book of Three and The Black Cauldron Notes: This is my favourite Disney movie, and probably their darkest. It didn’t do well upon release, so that put an end to “dark Disney”, which was a real shame for weirdo kids like me.
Number 5
Title:The Dark Crystal Year: 1982 Plot: On another planet in the distant past, a Gelfling embarks on a quest to find the missing shard of a magical crystal, and so restore order to his world. Starring: Stephen Garlick, Lisa Maxwell, Percy Edwards, Billie Whitelaw, Barry Dennen, Jerry Nelson, Joseph O’Conor Directed by: Jim Henson, Frank Oz Based on: An original screenplay written by David Odell, based on a story created by Jim Henson and Frank Oz Notes: So many of the films I loved as a child are like this one, “too weird and scary” for today’s wimpy children. I’m not sure what the people who made children’s movies were on in the 80s, but I want some. This film is both heartwarming and tense, with simply stunning puppetry and locations.
Number 4
Title:Fright Night Year: 1985 Plot: A teen becomes suspicious of his new neighbour when bodies of young women are found dumped in trash bags. He soon realizes the suave, handsome man is an evil vampire, and he tries to enlist the help of a tv vampire slayer to stop him. Starring: Chris Sarandon, William Ragsdale, Amanda Bearse, Roddy McDowall, Stephen Geoffreys, Jonathan Stark, Dorothy Fielding, Art Evans Directed by: Tom Holland Based on: An original screenplay written by Tom Holland Notes: One of the original great horror-comedies, this film is fun, campy, and scary. The actors are perfect in their roles, especially Chris Sarandon as the evil yet seductive Jerry Dandridge. The remake, while nowhere near as good as this one, is still worth a gander.
Number 3
Title:Legend Year: 1985 Plot: A young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from both destroying daylight and marrying the woman he loves. Starring: Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, Tim Curry, David Bennent, Annabelle Lanyon, Alice Playten, Billy Barty, Cork Hubbert, Robert Picardo Directed by: Ridley Scott Based on: An original screenplay written by William Hjortsberg, although he was heavily inspired by classic fairy tales and Celtic art, particularly the book Faeries by Brian Froud and Alan Lee. Notes: I’m not sure if the creators of this film intended it to be a kids film or an adults, but I know I saw it as a kid (of course I did). This film, effects-wise, was so far ahead of its time that it would be impressive even if it came out today. And Tim Curry is deliciously evil as Darkness (although I heard that he hated the makeup process, those horns weighed a ton!)
Number 2
Title:Labyrinth Year: 1986 Plot: Fifteen-year-old Sarah accidentally wishes her baby half-brother, Toby, away to the Goblin King Jareth, who will keep him if Sarah does not complete his Labyrinth in thirteen hours. Starring: Jennifer Connelly, David Bowie, Brian Henson, Ron Mueck, Dave Goelz, David Shaughnessy, Michael Hordern, Denise Bryer, David Healy, Robert Beatty, Toby Froud Directed by: Jim Henson Based on: An original screenplay written by Terry Jones, based on a story by Jim Henson and Brian Froud, although they acknowledged they were heavily inspired by Outside Over There by Maurice Sendak Notes: If I had to absolutely choose a favourite fantasy film of all time, this would be it. I saw it at 5 years old, when it came out, and I’ve seen it well over 100 times. I learned all the words, songs and talked, in a very short time, and I still know most of them now. It’s an absolutely perfect piece of film. And David Bowie (rip) is so beautiful in this, I can’t help but swoon every time. They just don’t make them like this anymore. What a pity…
Number 1
Title:The Lost Boys Year: 1987 Plot: When brothers Sam and Michael move to a new town after their parents’ divorce, they quickly realize that the town is over-run by vampires. Sam gets help from self-appointed vampire slayers, but for Michael it may be too late… Starring: Jason Patric, Corey Haim, Keifer Sutherland, Jami Gertz, Corey Feldman, Dianne Wiest, Barnard Hughes, Edward Herrmann, Jamison Newlander, Alex Winter, Billy Wirth, Brooke McCarter, Chance Michael Corbitt, Folsom the Dog, Cody the Dog Directed by: Joel Schumacher Based on: An original screenplay written by Janice Fischer and James Jeremias Notes: It was the first vampire movie I ever saw, and was the beginning of a life-long love affair with all things that go bump in the night. I was 6 when this came out, and my mom bought it on vhs and hid it from me, saying it was “too scary”. By the time she’d caught me with it, I’d already watched it about 20 times. Not too scary for this weirdo!
And there it is, 30 of the best films from the 80s. I had a hell of time choosing between Labyrinth and The Lost Boys as my number 1, I think I love them both equally. And I do think the ranking is pretty fluid here. A lot of these can be interchangeable, depending on my mood.
Shout-outs go to the following films for almost making the list:
Watchers Re-animator Cellar Dweller Just One of the Guys Pretty in Pink The Breakfast Club Who Framed Roger Rabbit? Twice Upon a Time Stand By Me Firestarter
Some of these were so close to making the list that it hurt to leave them off, but adding them would just make an already long list even longer, so here they are.
The Night House (2020) Rebecca Hall, Sarah Goldberg, Vondie Curtis-Hall, Evan Jonigkeit, Stacy Martin Directed by: David Bruckner
This movie has been on my Disney+ watchlist since it arrived on the platform. I’ve been really wanting to see it but never seemed to get around to it. I finally did and, well, I’m not sure how I feel about it.
A recently widowed woman comes to think her house is haunted, but is it really her husband?
I didn’t dislike the movie, let’s get that out of the way. I liked it, I think. It was definitely more of a slow burn, but not in a bad way, I was never bored. But I don’t know, there was just something that felt a little off. I think it might have a lot to do with Rebecca Hall’s performance. While not bad, the character just seemed.. off? I’m not sure if that was intentional, or if it’s just something that I imagined, but I didn’t care a whole lot about her because of it.
SPOILERS INCOMING
Although, to be fair, I don’t know how I would react if first, my husband commits suicide seemingly out of the blue and second, has some pretty awful secrets. So maybe she’s not acting weird at all. I did enjoy the end. I’ve seen some others say that it was lacking, but I thought it fit the tone of the rest of the film. There’s a nice sense of dread that permeates the entire film, which is nice. Also, how cute is Evan Jonigkeit as the husband? My goodness. He’s got odd features, but they work.
So, do I recommend it? I do, if slow burn ghost stories are your bag. It gets a pretty good 7.5/10 from me.
I love watching lists on YouTube, and one of the guys I like watching is Daniel over on The Cobwebs Channel. He’s a fan of all things horror, so his lists often reflect that. One series of videos he made is his favourite horror films of each decade, starting with the 30s. I was inspired to make my own version of that, but not only horror films. So be prepared for a grab bag of stuff, hehe. I’m not really a fan of old timey films, so my first post will be for the 70s and before, and I was only able to find 12 that I really loved. Starting next post, though, it’ll be a top 30, and I had all the trouble in the world to keep it at 30. So, without further ado, here’s my favourite films of the 70s (and before)!
Number 12
Title:Cleopatra Year: 1963 Plot: Queen Cleopatra VII of Egypt experiences both triumph and tragedy as she attempts to resist the imperial ambitions of Rome. Starring: Elizabeth Taylor, Rex Harrison, Richard Burton, George Cole, Hume Cronyn, Cesare Danova, Kenneth Haigh, Andrew Keir, Martin Landau, Roddy McDowall, Robert Stephens, Pamela Brown Directed by: Joseph L Mankiewicz, Rouben Mamoulian Based on a book?: Yes, The Life and Times of Cleopatra by Carlo Maria Franzero Notes: I absolutely love ancient history, so it’s almost a given that I’d love this. It’s beautiful, it’s lush, the costumes are out of this world (and cost a pretty penny, even in 1960s terms). The only reason it’s not higher up on the list is the second half of the film lulls a bit and is not nearly as good as the first half. The film is also unbelievably long, clocking in at 5h 20m, which I wouldn’t have minded if the Marc Antony part was as good as the Julius Caesar part.
Number 11
Title:The Rocky Horror Picture Show Year: 1975 Plot: A rain-soaked couple take refuge in the castle of a (sweet) transvestite mad scientist from outer space who is about to unveil his greatest creation. Starring: Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Richard O’Brien, Patricia Quinn, Little Nell Campbell, Peter Hinwood, Jonathan Adams, Meat Loaf, Charles Gray Directed by: Jim Sharman Based on a book?: No Notes: I hated this film the first time I saw it. I don’t even remember who got me to give it a second chance, but I thank them. This is one of only 2 musicals in any of these lists, cause I’m generally not a fan (I’m not counting Disney films as musicals, they’re their own beast). It’s silly, it’s campy and it’s a lot of fun.
Number 10
Title:Dracula Year: 1979 Plot: In 1913, the charming, seductive and sinister vampire Count Dracula travels to England in search of an immortal bride. Starring: Frank Langella, Laurence Olivier, Kate Nelligan, Donald Pleasence, Trevor Eve, Jan Francis, Tony Haygarth Directed by: John Badham Based on a book?: Yes, Dracula by Bram Stoker Notes: This is the first iteration of Dracula that I ever saw (when I was probably too young), and so when I saw Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1992, I was confused as to why they switched Mina and Lucy’s characters. Imagine my surprise when I read the book and found that the ’92 version had the right of it. I still have no idea why this version switched the names. It’s a little long winded at times, but it’s a beautiful film, Langella is very smooth as the Count.
Number 9
Title:Psycho Year: 1960 Plot: A woman on the run stops for the night at a lonely motel where she meets the nice, if a little odd, Norman Bates. Starring: Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, John Gavin, Martin Balsam, John McIntire, Simon Oakland Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock Based on a book?: Yes, Psycho by Robert Bloch Notes: What can I say about this classic, besides the fact that it’s almost surprising I like it as much as I do? I’m generally not a fan of old timey movies, and I’m generally not a fan of slashers, but there are exceptions to everything. I also can’t deny the effect that this film had on the horror industry as a whole. Being done by a respected director, it put the whole world on notice that horror was more than B-movies.
Number 8
Title:The Ghost and Mrs Muir Year: 1947 Plot: In 1900, a young widow finds her seaside cottage is haunted and forms a unique relationship with the ghost. Starring: Gene Tierney, Rex Harrison, George Sanders, Edna Best, Vanessa Brown, Anna Lee Directed by: Joseph L Mankiewicz Based on a book?: Yes, The Ghost and Mrs Muir by Josephine Leslie (under the pseudonym RA Dick) Notes: Such a cozy, warm movie. I loved the interaction between the gruff old sea captain’s ghost and the eponymous Mrs Muir. I really don’t have much to say about this film besides I was pleasantly surprised that I loved it.
Number 7
Title:Some Like it Hot Year: 1959 Plot: After two male musicians witness a mob hit, they flee the state in an all-female band disguised as women, but further complications set in. Starring: Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, Marilyn Monroe, George Raft, Pat O’Brien, Joe E Brown, Joan Shawlee Directed by: Billy Wilder Based on a book?: No Notes: I absolutely love this film. Yes, the relationships are a little problematic when you think too hard about it, but it’s so charming, so romantic, even funny at times. And Marilyn Monroe was stunning!
Number 6
Title:Invasion of the Body Snatchers Year: 1956 Plot: A small-town doctor learns that the population of his community is being replaced by emotionless alien duplicates. Starring: Kevin McCarthy, Dana Wynter, Larry Gates, King Donovan, Carolyn Jones, Jean Willes, Ralph Dumke, Virginia Christine Directed by: Don Siegel Based on a book?: Yes, The Body Snatchers by Jack Finney Notes: When this title is brought up, it’s usually the 70s version that gets all the love. But I prefer this one by leaps and bounds. The sense of creeping dread is there just under the surface, and it’s wonderfully executed.
Number 5
Title:Robin Hood Year: 1973 Plot: Robin Hood, an outlaw with a heart of gold, must save his beloved Nottingham from the evil Prince John all the while wooing his childhood love, Maid Marian. Starring: Brian Bedford, Phil Harris, Monica Evans, Peter Ustinov, Terry-Thomas, Andy Devine, Pat Buttram, Roger Miller, Carole Shelley Directed by: Wolfgang Reitherman, David Hand Based on a book?: While the story itself originates from poems written starting in the 14th century, the first real book written about Robin Hood was The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood by Howard Pyle Notes: This was one of my favourite movies growing up, so imagine my surprise to learn that it was not well received when it came out. Sure, the character of Little John is basically just Baloo from The Jungle Book (even voiced by the same actor), but the film itself is fun and sweet with some great songs.
Number 4
Title: The Last Man on Earth Year: 1964 Plot: When a disease turns all of humanity into the living dead, the last man on earth becomes a reluctant vampire hunter. Starring: Vincent Price, Franca Bettoia, Emma Danieli, Giacomo Rossi Stuart, Umberto Raho Directed by: Ubaldo Ragona, Sidney Salkow Based on a book?: Yes, I Am Legend by Richard Matheson Notes: Vincent Price is an absolute legend in the horror community, and even though I haven’t seen many of his films, I know this. This film is dark, bleak, and lonely, with a gut punch ending. An absolute hidden classic in my opinion.
Number 3
Title:Wizards Year: 1977 Plot: On a post-apocalyptic Earth, a wizard and his faire folk comrades fight an evil wizard who’s using technology in his bid for conquest. Starring: Bob Holt, Jesse Welles, Richard Romanus, David Proval, Steve Gravers, Jim Connell, Peter Hobbs, Mark Hamill Directed by: Ralph Bakshi Based on a book?: No Notes: I saw this when I was way too young to appreciate the gravity of what was happening in this world. Now that I’m older, I still love it, but for entirely different reasons. This animation is definitely not for kids. Unless, of course, we’re talking about a kid like me, hehe.
Number 2
Title:The Sword in the Stone Year: 1963 Plot: A poor boy named Arthur learns the power of love, kindness, knowledge and bravery with the help of a wizard called Merlin in the path to become one of the most beloved kings in English history. Starring: Rickie Sorensen, Karl Swenson, Junius Matthews, Sebastian Cabot, Norman Alden, Martha Wentworth, Alan Napier Directed by: Wolfgang Reitherman, Clyde Geronimi, David Hand Based on a book?: Yes, The Sword in the Stone by TH White Notes: This is one of my absolute favourite Disney movies of all time. While my love of others that I saw as a kid has somewhat faded, I can still watch this one and love it as much as I did back then. It’s so much fun! The scene where Archimedes is laughing his ass off at Merlin after he got his beard stuck in the propellers of a toy airplane gets me every time.
Number 1
Title:The Exorcist Year: 1973 Plot: When a malevolent entity possesses a young girl, her mother seeks the help of two Catholic priests to save her life. Starring: Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Jason Miller, Max von Sydow, Lee J Cobb, Kitty Winn, Jack MacGowran, William O’Malley, Rudolf Schündler Directed by: William Friedkin Based on a book?: Yes, The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty Notes: As if this is a surprise to anyone who knows me. Thinking of other horror films of the era, this one just stands head and shoulders above the rest. It’s such a bleak film, dealing with things such as the loss of faith and despair. Yes, of course, there are the gross out and scary scenes, but the film is so much more then that. I strongly recommend it to anyone who loves horror and for some reason still haven’t seen it. It holds up surprisingly well for a film made in the early 70s.
And that’s my list! What are your favourites? Stay tuned for the 80s, coming soon!
I watched this off my Shudder watchlist last night. I enjoy demon-y type movies, so I figured I’d give this little Indonesian film a chance. And it was… fine.
After a woman is seemingly possessed, the shock sends her husband to a psychiatric hospital. But the real terror waits for her children after the father comes home.
I’m not even sure I have enough to say about this for a full blog post, but I’ll try. It was an altogether average film. The acting was fine. The story was fine, if a little uninspired. The camerawork was fine, although it did get a little annoying with the weird angles sometimes. The demon looked ok, but again, uninspired. One thing I really didn’t like, though, was their over-reliance of cgi. There were hardly any makeup effects, it was all cg. It takes away from a film, I find, if over-used. The one big makeup they had was some shots of the demon itself, and honestly, it looked a little silly. The film was also over-long, clocking in at 1 hour 49 minutes. 20 minutes could have easily been shaved off this thing.
I didn’t know anything about this demon, the Perewangan, because it’s from Javanese folklore. The word means “helper” and is basically a demon you summon to grant you what you want, but it must be fed. And if you don’t, you’re cursed and possessed. It’s multigenerational as well, so even if you kill yourself or something, that won’t stop it. It’s a pretty common myth, they have something like that from many cultures around the world, but they could have done something more interesting with the concept, I’m sure. And the ending is, in a word, typical.
So do I recommend it? Meh, not really. There’s not much to recommend. It gets a fine 5/10 from me.
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved space and everything surrounding it (which, I guess, is literally more space…) I’ve always said, as I look up longingly at the night sky, “all that space, and we’re stuck here”. So it’s no surprise that I also love space movies (aliens optional, but appreciated). So here are my top 18 favourite space/alien films.
Number 18
Title:Independence Day Year: 1996 Plot: After aliens invade the Earth and destroy many major cities around the world, an Army captain, a tech wizard, and the President all fight for the survival of mankind. Starring: Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, Vivica A Fox, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch, Randy Quaid, Margaret Colin, Harry Connick Jr, Robert Loggia, Brent Spiner, James Duval Directed by: Roland Emmerich Based on a book?: No Notes: It’s a bit of a guilty pleasure, but I’ll be damned if I don’t love this film. I just stuff popcorn into my cakehole and have a blast!
Number 17
Title:Invasion of the Body Snatchers Year: 1956 Plot: A small-town doctor learns that the population of his community is being replaced by emotionless alien duplicates. Starring: Kevin McCarthy, Dana Wynter, Larry Gates, King Donovan, Carolyn Jones, Jean Willes, Ralph Dumke, Virginia Christine Directed by: Don Siegel Based on a book?: Yes, The Body Snatchers by Jack Finney Notes: I’m not a huge fan of old timey films, but every so often one pops up that I love. This is the best iteration of this story except for…
Number 16
Title: The Faculty Year: 1998 Plot: Six students band together as their high school is over-run by a parasitic alien. Starring: Elijah Wood, Josh Hartnett, Jordana Brewster, Clea DuVall, Laura Harris, Shawn Hatosy, Famke Janssen, Salma Hayek, Piper Laurie, Bebe Neuwirth, Robert Patrick, Usher Raymond, Jon Stewart Directed by: Robert Rodriguez Based on a book?: Not as such, but is greatly inspired by The Body Snatchers by Jack Finney and The Puppet Masters by Robert A Heinlein Notes: …this one. I know it’s not exactly the same story, but it’s close enough that it counts. I loved this when it came out, and still love it today. So much fun!
Number 15
Title:Arrival Year: 2016 Plot: Linguist Louise Banks leads a team of investigators when gigantic spaceships touch down around the world. As nations teeter on the verge of global war, Banks and her crew must find a way to communicate with the extraterrestrial visitors. Starring: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker, Michael Stuhlbarg, Mark O’Brien, Tzi Ma, Frank Schorpion, Christian Jadah Directed by: Denis Villeneuve Based on a book?: Yes, the novella Story of Your Life by Ted Chiang Notes: I have yet to see a film by Denis Villeneuve that I haven’t liked and this one is no exception. It’s tense and heartwarming at the same time, with wonderful characters and beautiful alien effects. As a side note, I can pronounce Villeneuve’s name properly cause I’m from Quebec, just like him. It never fails to make me chuckle when I hear someone who doesn’t speak French try pronounce it.
Number 14
Title:Starman Year: 1984 Plot: An alien takes the form of a young widow’s husband and makes her drive him to his departure point in Arizona. Distrustful government agents, along with a more ambivalent scientist, give pursuit in hopes of intercepting them. Starring: Jeff Bridges, Karen Allen, Charles Martin Smith, Richard Jaeckel, Robert Phalen, Tony Edwards, George ‘Buck’ Flower Directed by: John Carpenter Based on a book?: No Notes: This is pure, unadulterated schmoop, and I’m here for it.
Number 13
Title:The Blob Year: 1988 Plot: A deadly entity from space crash-lands near a small town and begins consuming everyone in its path. Panic ensues as shady government scientists try to contain the horrific creature. Starring: Shawnee Smith, Kevin Dillon, Jeffrey DeMunn, Donovan Leitch Jr, Candy Clark, Joe Seneca, Del Close, Paul McCrane Directed by: Chuck Russell Based on a book?: No Notes: This film is so 80’s, and I mean that in the best possible way. The practical effects in this are mind blowing!
Number 12
Title:A Quiet Place Year: 2018 Plot: A family struggles for survival in a world invaded by blind alien creatures with ultra-sensitive hearing. Starring: Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Millicent Simmonds, Noah Jupe, Cade Woodward Directed by: John Krasinski Based on a book?: No Notes: This movie was original and tense, and we really feel for this family trying to survive in this new world. Great stuff!
Number 11
Title:Star Trek Generations Year: 1994 Plot: With the help of long presumed dead Captain Kirk, Captain Picard must stop a deranged scientist willing to murder on a planetary scale in order to enter a space matrix. Starring: Patrick Stewart, William Shatner, Malcolm McDowell, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Marina Sirtis, James Doohan, Michael Dorn, Gates McFadden, Walter Koenig, Alan Ruck Directed by: David Carson Based on a book?: No Notes: I loved many of the Star Trek films from each generation, but decided to only put one on this list. I may be in the minority here, but I find Generations to be one of the best. Two captains and a great villain equal a great time!
Number 10
Title:Signs Year: 2002 Plot: A widowed former reverend living with his children and brother on a Pennsylvania farm finds mysterious crop circles in their fields, which suggests something more frightening to come. Starring: Mel Gibson, Joaquin Phoenix, Rory Culkin, Abigail Breslin, Cherry Jones, Patricia Kalember Directed by: M Night Shyamalan Based on a book?: No Notes: I love this film. Sometimes schmoopy, sometimes spooky, it’s so well done. And it has one of the best jumpscares ever.
Number 9
Title:The Fifth Element Year: 1997 Plot: In the far future, cab driver Korben Dallas unwittingly becomes the central figure in the search for a legendary cosmic weapon to keep a great evil, and the man helping it, at bay. Starring: Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman, Ian Holm, Chris Tucker, Charlie Creed-Miles, Brion James, Tom Lister Jr, Luke Perry Directed by: Luc Besson Based on a book?: No Notes: This film is a blast, start to finish. Very colourful, action packed fun.
Number 8
Title: The Iron Giant Year: 1999 Plot: A young boy befriends a giant robot from outer space that a paranoid government agent wants to destroy. Starring: Eli Marienthal, Harry Connick Jr, Jennifer Aniston, Vin Diesel, Christopher McDonald, James Gammon, Cloris Leachman, John Mahoney, M Emmet Walsh Directed by: Brad Bird Based on a book?: Yes, The Iron Man by Ted Hughes Notes: One of the best animated films ever. It’s fun, quirky, and boy get your Kleenex ready cause you’re gonna need it!
Number 7
Title:K-Pax Year: 2001 Plot: A psychiatrist tries to determine how best to help a patient who convincingly claims to be from a distant galaxy. Starring: Kevin Spacey, Jeff Bridges, Mary McCormack, Alfre Woodard, David Patrick Kelly, Saul Williams, Peter Gerety, Celia Weston Directed by: Iain Softley Based on a book?: Yes, K-Pax by Gene Brewer Notes: I adore this movie so much, but I have trouble watching now with such a problematic actor playing such a lovable character.
Number 6
Title:The Avengers Year: 2012 Plot: Earth’s mightiest heroes must come together and learn to fight as a team if they are going to stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity. Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Jeremy Renner, Tom Hiddleston, Clark Gregg, Stellan Skarsgård, Cobie Smulders, Gwyneth Paltrow, Samuel L Jackson, Paul Bettany (v.o.) Directed by: Joss Whedon Based on a book?: Yes, the comic book series Avengers created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby Notes: Ah, the good old days before superhero fatigue set in for me. This film is all kinds of quippy, quotable awesomeness. And Tom Hiddleston is absolutely delicious as Loki.
Number 5
Title:The Martian Year: 2015 Plot: An astronaut becomes stranded on Mars after his team assumes him dead in a storm, and must rely on his ingenuity to find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive and can survive until a potential rescue. Starring: Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jeff Daniels, Kristen Wiig, Michael Peña, Sean Bean, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan, Aksel Hennie, Benedict Wong, Mackenzie Davis, Donald Glover Directed by: Ridley Scott Based on a book?: Yes, The Martian by Andy Weir Notes: I adored the book this was based on so much that I went into this with much trepidation, mostly about the casting of Matt Damon as Mark Watney. But I was very wrong. While it does leave a few key scenes out (I imagine for length purposes) the rest is amazing, and very faithful to the book.
Number 4
Title:Pitch Black Year: 2000 Plot: A transport ship crashes and leaves its crew stranded on a desert planet inhabited by bloodthirsty creatures that come out during an eclipse. Starring: Radha Mitchell, Vin Diesel, Cole Hauser, Keith David, Lewis Fitz-Gerald, Claudia Black, Rhiana Griffith Directed by: David Twohy Based on a book?: No Notes: I don’t know if I’m in the minority here, as I often am, but I loved this film so much. I love it just as much now as when I first saw it in the cinema. Great fun!
Number 3
Title:Stargate Year: 1994 Plot: An interstellar teleportation device, found in Egypt, leads to a planet with humans resembling ancient Egyptians who worship the god Ra. Starring: James Spader, Kurt Russell, Jaye Davidson, Alexis Cruz, Mili Avital, Leon Rippy, John Diehl, Erick Avari, Djimon Hounsou, Carlos Lauchu Directed by: Roland Emmerich Based on a book?: No Notes: Marrying ancient Egyptian-like culture and space travel? Sign me up! It also doesn’t hurt that James Spader was an absolute fox…
Number 2
Title:Event Horizon Year: 1997 Plot: A rescue crew is tasked with investigating the mysterious reappearance of a spaceship that had been lost for seven years. While the ship seems empty at first, it’s clear that it did not come back alone. Starring: Laurence Fishburne, Sam Neill, Joely Richardson, Kathleen Quinlan, Jason Isaacs, Jack Noseworthy, Richard T Jones, Sean Pertwee Directed by: Paul WS Anderson Based on a book?: No Notes: This film scared the snot out of me when I first saw it when it came out (I was 16), and still manages to give me goosebumps today. A sign of a job well done!
Number 1
Title:Aliens Year: 1986 Plot: Decades after surviving the Nostromo incident, Ellen Ripley is sent out to re-establish contact with a terraforming colony but finds herself battling the Alien Queen and her offspring. Starring: Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Carrie Henn, Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, Paul Reiser, Jenette Goldstein, William Hope, Al Matthews Directed by: James Cameron Based on a book?: No, although James Cameron acknowledged inspiration from Robert A Heinlein’s novel Starship Troopers. Notes: Simply the best space/alien movie ever, full stop. I saw this (probably way too young) on tv when I was about 8 or 9 and have loved it since then. Action packed and tense, with killer effects, this film rocks!
And that’s it. Yes I’m aware some notables are missing from the list like Alien and The Thing. I’ve either not liked or haven’t seen them. That happens a lot with me, not liking the classics. I can acknowledge that they were important to the genre, but that doesn’t mean I gotta like them! Hehe So I hope you enjoyed it!
Witchboard (1986) Todd Allen, Tawny Kitaen, Stephen Nichols, Kathleen Wilhoite, Burke Byrnes, James W Quinn, JP Luebsen Directed by: Kevin Tenney
I was in the mood for a fun, cheesy horror movie last night, and noticed this was on Shudder, so I put it on. And while it lacked a bit of that 80’s charm, it was still pretty good.
When a woman becomes terrorized by a spirit after using a Ouija board by herself, her fiancé and her ex, who used to be his best friend, must join forces to find out how to save her.
This is one of the few “bigger” horror B movies from the 80’s that I hadn’t seen yet. After hearing about it from Daniel over at The Cobwebs Channel, I decided to take the plunge. It was lacking a bit on the fun and even the cheese. It takes itself pretty seriously (except maybe with the character of Zarabeth) and therefor lacked a bit. But what I did get was a pretty good haunting/possession film (not good enough to edge out any of the top 15 I did, hehe). Tawny Kitaen, otherwise known as a “Video Vixen“, was surprisingly good in the role of the terrorized woman, and although she’s drop dead gorgeous, her hair… oh my god. It’s SOO fried, like too much bleach and teasing fried. I know it was the 80’s, but damn! Use some conditioner! Her fiancé was played well by Todd Allen. The character is aloof and a bit of an asshole but still you’re rooting for him. And the ex best friend, whoa those eyeballs! So green! There weren’t a lot of effects, just one decapitation that looks a little funny. And what little makeup effects we got were done well. All in all, it’s a good time.
Do I recommend it? Sure, if you enjoy 80’s films. If you don’t, I’d advise against it. I give it a good 7.5/10.
Supernatural horror is my favourite category of horror films (and books for that matter), and in that subgenre, possession films (and books) are my favourites. I’ve seen and read so many that they tend to blur together, but a few of them really stand out. Here are my top 15 possession films. You’ll notice, when called for, I put “true story” in quotations. I definitely don’t believe any of this stuff happened for real, with the exception of two court cases for numbers 7 and 2. But everything surrounding them, that’s a big no. Enjoy!
Number 15
Title:Prey for the Devil Year: 2022 Starring: Jacqueline Byers, Christian Navarro, Posy Taylor, Colin Salmon, Nicholas Ralph, Virginia Madsen, Ben Cross, Debora Zhecheva Directed by: Daniel Stamm Plot: A nun prepares to perform an exorcism and comes face to face with a demonic force with mysterious ties to her past. Why I love it: This is the film that I’ve seen most recently, and I have to say, I was quite impressed. It didn’t reinvent the wheel or anything, but it was a good time.
Number 14
Title: Late Night with the Devil Year: 2023 Starring: David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ingrid Torelli, Ian Bliss, Fayssal Bazzi, Rhys Auteri, Georgina Haig, Josh Quong Tart Directed by: Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes Plot: A late night tv host in 1977, in an effort to save his dying show, has on a girl who is supposedly possessed in a live broadcast that goes horribly wrong. Why I love it: This was quite a unique film, and they did an amazing job recreating the vibe of a cheesy 70’s talk show. It might have been higher on my list, but I wasn’t a big fan of the ending.
Number 13
Title:The Possession of Michael King Year: 2014 Starring: Shane Johnson, Ella Anderson, Cara Pifko, Julie McNiven, Tomas Arana, Patricia Healy, Cullen Douglas, Jed Rees, Dale Dickey Directed by: David Jung Plot: Michael is an atheist who recently lost his wife in an unfortunate accident. After confronting his late wife’s “spiritual adviser” (a tarot card reader), he decides to make a documentary featuring what he believes will be proof that the supernatural doesn’t exist. Why I love it: This little film is so much better than it had any right being. As someone who hates found footage, I found this film so good that I was able to look past it.
Number 12
Title:Evil Dead Year: 2013 Starring: Jane Levy, Shiloh Fernandez, Jessica Lucas, Lou Taylor Pucci, Elizabeth Blackmore, Inca the Dog Directed by: Fede Alvarez Plot: Five friends head to a remote cabin to help one of them kick a drug habit, where the discovery of a Book of the Dead leads them to unwittingly summon up demons living in the nearby woods. Why I love it: I hated the original, but this remake/sequel is pretty awesome. So much more gory than I usually like my films, but it was very well done, so I was able to enjoy it despite that.
Number 11
Title: The Blackcoat’s Daughter Year: 2015 Starring: Kiernan Shipka, Lucy Boynton, Emma Roberts, James Remar, Lauren Holly, Greg Ellwand Directed by: Osgood Perkins Plot: During winter break, two students stay in an all-girls boarding school in the company of a terrifying presence. Why I love it: Wonderful, quiet, and weird. I loved it. What a gut-punch of an ending.
Number 10
Title:The Vatican Tapes Year: 2015 Starring: Olivia Taylor Dudley, Michael Peña, Dougray Scott, John Patrick Amedori, Peter Andersson, Djimon Hounsou, Kathleen Robertson Directed by: Mark Neveldine Plot: A priest and two Vatican exorcists must do battle with an ancient satanic force to save the soul of a young woman. Why I love it: I really wasn’t expecting much when I picked this up in a Walmart bargain bin. Imagine my surprise when I actually loved it! Just a fun, good time.
Number 9
Title:Ouija: Origin of Evil Year: 2016 Starring: Elizabeth Reaser, Lulu Wilson, Annalise Basso, Henry Thomas, Parker Mack, Halle Charlton, Kate Siegel, Doug Jones Directed by: Mike Flanagan Plot: In 1967 Los Angeles, a girl tries to communicate with her late father through a Ouija board, but unleashes a demon instead. Why I love it: I had no intention of watching it, since the first one was awful. But the trailer intrigued me enough that I gave it a chance. And I’m glad I did. Mike Flanagan can really do no wrong.
Number 8
Title: Fallen Year: 1998 Starring: Denzel Washington, John Goodman, Donald Sutherland, Embeth Davidtz, James Gandolfini, Elias Koteas, Gabriel Casseus, Robert Joy Directed by: Gregory Hoblit Plot: Homicide detective John Hobbes witnesses the execution of serial killer Edgar Reese. Soon after the execution, the killings start again, and they are very similar to Reese’s style. He is then taunted by an entity that can jump from body to body. Why I love it: This is such an under-rated gem, I rarely hear people talking about it, which is a real shame. It’s a great story with a stacked cast. It’s not a conventional possession movie, but still fits the category.
Number 7
Title:The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It Year: 2021 Starring: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Ruairi O’Connor, Sarah Catherine Hook, Julian Hilliard, John Noble, Eugenie Bondurant, Shannon Kook, Steve Coulter Directed by: Michael Chaves Plot: Arne Cheyenne Johnson stabs and murders his landlord, claiming to be under demonic possession while Ed and Lorraine Warren investigate the case and try to prove his innocence. Why I love it: I may be in the minority here, but this is my second favourite Conjuring movie. I just love the characters so much (as long as I separate them from their real-life counterparts), and I love spending time with them. Based on a “true story”, based on The Devil in Connecticut by Gerald Brittle.
Number 6
Title:The Exorcist Year: 1973 Starring: Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Jason Miller, Max von Sydow, Lee J Cobb, Kitty Winn, Jack MacGowran, William O’Malley Directed by: William Friedkin Plot: When a mysterious entity possesses a young girl, her mother seeks the help of two Catholic priests to save her life. Why I love it: I mean, it’s the OG, how could I not love it? I feel like I should apologize for not having it higher, but my top 5 are really, really good, hehe. A wonderful case study in faith and despair. Based on The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty.
Number 5
Title:Stigmata Year: 1999 Starring: Patricia Arquette, Gabriel Byrne, Jonathan Pryce, Nia Long, Thomas Kopache, Enrico Colantoni, Rade Serbedzija, Dick Latessa Directed by: Rupert Wainwright Plot: When a young woman becomes afflicted by stigmata, a priest is sent to investigate her case, which may have severe ramifications for his faith and for the Catholic church itself. Why I love it: My lifelong crush on Gabriel Byrne aside, this is just an awesome movie. I must have seen it over 20 times!
Number 4
Title: The Exorcist III Year: 1990 Starring: George C Scott, Ed Flanders, Brad Dourif, Jason Miller, Nicol Williamson, Scott Wilson, Nancy Fish Directed by: William Peter Blatty Plot: A police lieutenant uncovers more than he bargained for as his investigation of a series of murders, which have all the hallmarks of the deceased Gemini serial killer, leads him to question the patients of a psychiatric ward. Why I love it: It may upset some people that this one is higher than the first one, but I simply like this one more. George C Scott was born to play this role, and Brad Dourif is absolutely electric as the Gemini killer. And it has the best jump scare in movie history, full stop. Based on Legion by William Peter Blatty.
Number 3
Title:Deliver Us From Evil Year: 2014 Starring: Eric Bana, Edgar Ramírez, Joel McHale, Olivia Munn, Sean Harris, Chris Coy, Lulu Wilson, Olivia Horton, Dorian Missick, Mike Houston Directed by: Scott Derrickson Plot: A detective and a priest join forces to stop an ancient evil that is spreading across New York. Why I love it: As soon as I saw it was directed by Scott Derrickson, I knew I would love it. It’s got great characters, good mystery, some tense scenes, and a killer exorcism. What else could you want? Based on a “true story”, based on Beware the Night by Ralph Sarchie.
Number 2
Title:The Exorcism of Emily Rose Year: 2005 Starring: Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson, Jennifer Carpenter, Campbell Scott, Colm Feore, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Joshua Close, JR Bourne, Mary Beth Hurt Directed by: Scott Derrickson Plot: A lawyer takes on a negligent homicide case involving a priest who performed an exorcism on a young girl. Why I love it: Scott Derrickson again, I know. I didn’t plan it like this, I swear! This film is at times poignant, at times tense, and at times downright scary. Based on a “true story”, based on The Exorcism of Anneliese Michel by Dr Felicitas Goodman.
Number 1
Title:The Conjuring Year: 2013 Starring: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Lili Taylor, Ron Livingston, Joey King, Shanley Caswell, Shannon Kook, John Brotherton, Hayley McFarland, Mackenzie Foy, Kyla Deaver, Sterling Jerins, Joseph Bishara Directed by: James Wan Plot: Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren work to help a family terrorized by a dark presence in their farmhouse. Why I love it: This is my comfort movie. When I don’t feel well, if I’m in the hospital, or if I simply don’t know what to do with myself, I’ll throw this film on and I’ll immediately feel better. Based on a “true story”, based on House of Darkness House of Light by Andrea Perron.
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