In October, it’s pretty much a requisite to see horror films religiously, and while there are obvious choices to turn to (namely “The Exorcist” and “The Shining”), other hidden gems have yet to share the spotlight.
These are but a few.
“Lake Mungo”
A pseudo-documentary centered around an Australian family grieving over the mysterious death of their daughter and sister, "Lake Mungo" is one of the definitive horror films in recent memory.
Excellent performances from relatable and realistic characters, effective storytelling, and an ominous atmosphere as thick and deep as a bomb shelter.
Grade A quality filmmaking.
“Black Christmas”
This 1974 masterwork should be shown in Filmmaking 101 classes on how to make a slasher film that’s actually watchable.
About a sorority been terrorized by a mad stalker, the exceptional cinematography and claustrophobic ambiance only serve to make the experience even more unsettling.
“The Haunting”
No, not the abominable 1999 remake, but the 1963 Robert Wise film.
It may look like a typical “people investigating a haunted house” film, but similar to an onion, therein lies multiple layers of immersion, subtle psychological horror and top-notch production and sound.
To say anything more, would be spoiling it.
“Antichrist”
An incredibly divisive film that is equal parts horrific, beautiful, repulsive and challenging, this 2009 experimental film about a woman suffering through the five stages of grief is by no means a brainless shock-fest.
The style and artistic camerawork are worth the price of admission alone. However, having an iron stomach wouldn’t hurt, either.
“Let The Right One In”
A strong contender for the best vampire film ever made, this Swedish classic not only has the basic fundamental traits of a signature horror film, it vastly improves and modernizes the mythological beast with perfect results.
Did I mention it revolves around a 12-year-old boy falling in love with a vampire of the same age?
