I've always been a huge fan of horror movies. Not gory / slasher / torture or zombie movies - but a cleverly crafted film of suspense and 'eeek!' factor is such good fun! It needs to be fun. And although many horror flicks have (deliberately?) ridiculous/hilarious/generic plots, some films actually do offer genuinely fascinating twists at the end too.
Asian horror film masters are Japan, which brought us masterpieces of their time such as The Ring, Dark Water, The Grudge (not to mention a large number of a-bit-too-disturbing numbers such as Ichi the Killer and others). Like other Asian horror flicks, a lot of Japanese films have been remade in the USA, to varying degrees of effectiveness. I haven't included The Ring and co simply because they have now become so parodied they're no longer surprising. South Korea also has made some goodies (The Doll Master, The Tale of Two Sisters, stand out, then on the 'too-disturbing' spectrum, Oldboy, Lady Vengeance, etc). And Thailand also has a good offering, The Eye was originally Thai, as are several other US remakes.
In the West, well, obviously the well-funded US movie industry has given us many great horror films and horror film franchises: classics like The Shining; personally I quite enjoy the Paranormal Activity series for fun value; Insidious was surprisingly interesting; Drag Me to Hell fun and tongue-in-cheek. In Europe, my personal experience is that Spain makes some really good horror flicks. The Orphanage is worth a look, I even enjoyed (sort of) zombie movies Rec and Rec2 when handled that well (haven't seen 3 and 4 yet).
But if you have just an evening at home to watch horror this Halloween, and also want something a little bit brain-challenging with your popcorn, my recommendations are below:
1. Identity (USA, 2003)
I can't give too many spoilers here. But when it was released it got me and my family talking about it for quite some time afterwards. It's a really clever film - just watch it!
2. Shutter (Thailand, 2004)
You need to watch the Asian original. This film is a lesson in how clever plot and smart suspense can trump fancy effects and budget. I don't think there are any big bucks scenes in this film, but it will keep you gripped and hiding behind your pillow throughout. With a very good reveal at the end!
3. The Others (USA/Spain, 2001)
A seemingly long-winded, eerie, period movie with Nicole Kidman doing a good job in the lead. Stick with it to the end, however! The Director is Spanish, and this film has more of a European feel than American, I think.
4. Battle Royale (Batoru Rowaiaru) (Japan, 2000)
Tbh I am not sure I'd put this into 'horror' but maybe just 'drama'. Though it is quite disturbing - not because of pointless torture or gore, but as a kind of observation of society. At the same time it's vastly entertaining, in a kind of worrying way! I won't throw in any spoilers, but if any of it seems familiar, bear in mind this was actually released 16 years ago!
Honorary Mention: Poltergeist (USA, 1982)
This is just plain fun, and it is still one of my favourite films of all time. Directed by Tobe Hooper, with Spielberg writing/producing, it's got an easy-to-watch, slick, almost comforting, Hollywood finish - but all sorts of weirdness happening too. Carol-Aaaaaan!
Happy screaming! :)
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