Happy Halloween! Here's 18 Short Horror Films You Need To See! (2022 edition)

October Challenge Day 31:

Happy Halloween everyone!! Here is 18 brilliant short horror films to spook up your day.

Why 18 you ask? Because this is the 8th month of the old Roman calendar and the 10th month of the current calendar. BRAINS!

So without further ado, below is my pick of some of the best out there. With a review of 18 words or less, and in no particular order, please enjoy Horror Habit's 2022 Short Horror Film Festival.

*Note, Blogger has gone through an update and I can no longer embed videos as I have done in previous years. Simply click on the title links - they'll take you directly to the films.

The Rule of Three: OCD and a lonely cabin in the woods brings out a clever bloodbath.

Ivy: A flirtation at the local cafe turns deadly when they head back home to get better acquainted...

Threshold: Tinkering around, late at night, in the garage takes some unexpected twists.

Phantasmic: David Lynchian, nightmare inspired, chaos show. 

Papa-Figo: Just a couple of kids, doing kid stuff, when something goes terribly, terribly wrong.

Killer Date: A dude thinks he knows all there is about dating and one-night-stands....

Visitor: The widow was not expecting this particular knock at the door...

Final Grave: Something sinister is lurking in the back of this man's mind, and home.

Arcade: A cheeky little slasher with all the '80's vibes.

No mires ahí (Don’t look there): A touching and heartbreaking little tale about grief and ghosts. 

20 Matches: A menacing, unique, and succinct little tale about a serial killer.

The Drawing: A charming and frightening short, short about a deadly doodle.

Granny: A hilarious story about Grandma refusing to go into a nursing home, quietly. 

Demon: Absolutely brilliant - edge of your seat horror! Watch in a dark setting. 

The World Over: A young couple discover a portal to a parallel universe in their house. Things get really damn weird!

Rest My Bones: This little tickler has fun twist on a chat with the Devil, sort of...

Spectral: A ghostly little snack of jump scares!

A Night in Camp Heebie Jeebie: Let's finish this year's short horror fest with a fun one for the whole family!

Trick or Treat Scooby-Doo! (2022)

October Challenge Day 30

Hahahahaha! Oh my goodness - did I find a perfect, fun little film to watch when you wake up after a night on the town with friends?:

Trick or Treat Scooby-Doo!

Yes. 

Did I just forget how funny Scooby shows were or did they just get readjusted for adults? I mean, I loved Scooby-Doo as a kid but I haven't seen a Scooby cartoon in over 30 years. How smart, silly, and modern, is this movie! Very!

So yeah, as I was saying:

When you wake up with a groan, throw on a robe, walk over last night's costume laying on the floor, put your hair up in a messy bun, and as you're making your fizzy water/coffee, the prior night's events come flooding back to you. Such as How Much Damn Fun you had with friends at the burlesque musical about the misadventures of Jack Skellington. And then you all found a strange little hidden bar  - but then you all kinda all got separated, as nights out with a big group of friends do -  but somehow all found each other again at another pub in another neighborhood. 

And then, as you're cheering on your friends as they sing karaoke, you turn around to find a dude dressed as Robin Hood, I mean William Shakespeare, sitting right there at your table, next to you - just helped himself. And instead of simply saying "Hello", you say with, cringe clarity, "Where did you come from?" OMG.

And you stayed out too late, you had too much fun, and for some odd reason this cartoon seemed like a really good idea first thing in the morning. And I'm here to confirm: IT IS! Also, the sound track is rockin!

Also, and to quote the show I went to last night: This Is Halloween!! 

So have all the fun, get dressed up, laugh so hard your sides hurt, love your friends, eat the candy, and watch cartoons! Particularly on a weekend morning, it brings all the childhood memory vibes back. 

Watch alone with your cats, or with friends when you're lounging the day away in pajamas, or with the whole family. You're sure to find it a delight! For an extra dose of flare - enjoy that Halloween candy or that costume change with the film's score.

I watched this film on HBO or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this freaky fun feature. 

The Source Family (2012)

October Challenge Day 29

I debated heavily about putting this out as a horror film review, but it came up in conversation with friends so much - because CULTS ARE TERRIFYING - that I was all, what the hell. Let's check out:

The Source Family

I hate cults so much. 

SO MUCH. 

I didn't even look up from my computer when major events happened in this documentary. I just pointed at the TV, and on queue, when this documentary was trying to be dramatic, I continued typing when these  happened:

He thinks he's speaking to God. 

He says he loves you.

He starts having fancy cars/things.

Drugs come into the picture.

Give up your finances.

Give up your support system.

Give up your identity.

Young women/girls become a part of the scene. 

You can marry multiple people. 

Oh look, now we have 15 year old wives.

I'm shocked.

:|

So this sorry excuse of a human not only started a cult based on wholesome food, but killed multiple people with his own hands, left multiple marriages, children, AND people still followed him as if he was a god. 

Go to hell, brah. I'll see you there (according to the multiple men who told me that is where I'll be going).

This documentary came up in conversation multiple times with my people - and I even have a beloved friend who fully admits she wanted to learn more. She's already been a part of at least one famous cult. A cigarette is hanging out of my mouth, I'm taking a sip from my beer, and my big, sleepy eyes are all judgy at her. She rolls with it.

She rolls with it because she knows she has an escape plan. She has people who will knock others out to get to her.  I hate cults so much, but I appreciate that I know folks who are going to dive into this madness to understand it, and her folks will f*ck shit up if needed.

I wanted to vomit though when, by the end of the film, I saw people were still trying to keep this cult message alive - and didn't see this 'leader' as the monster he was. 

In all, I hate, hate, hate, hate cults.  And MAGAs - you're top on my vomit list. I do take a deep breath though, to realize my rage is at the manipulator, not the victims. 

This was a gross documentary because an alarming amount of people saw no problem with what was happening with this guy and still try to keep his image alive. Nah. Going to file this one in my horror selection. Also going to see my way out.

I watched this film on my Philo or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see were else you can find this real life nightmare. 

The Hunger (1983)

October Challenge Day 28

I don't even know how long this film has been on my To Watch list. Years? Decades? Well, I finally did it. I finally saw the cult classic: 

The Hunger

Gaddamn vampires. 

Here we have the story of an ancient, ancient vampire who looses her century long companion because of neglect/indifference as she vies for a new partner. Her new partner of choice turns out to be a bit more than she can chew...

It never fails for me, never fails. Every Damn Vampire film looks and acts just like addiction and narcissism. Every single one. Let's check the boxes:

• Immediate high/seduction to a new drug
• Doing what ever you can to get your next fix/blood
• Become dependent upon people's vulnerability
• Take advantage of people for your own needs - often times sucking them dry...
• The withdrawals are the worst

Okay, just had to get that out of the way. 

But I loved this film. I knew I was going to love this film because it has David Bowie in it, but the suspicion was solidified when the movie opened with Bauhaus singing Bela Lugosi's Dead. I was transported right back to my goth club days. 

I still don't know where my damn corset is. I actually liked that thing.

In any case, this is an art house-ish film that didn't really take off except in the cult world. I think that's fine. As an unofficial representative of cult classic films, I fully endorse this choice. It's a lovely, sexy, haunting, and cautionary tale about being an asshole to your partners and abuse. 

Best watched either leisurely on weekend mornings or late at night as the wind is howling outside. Pairs with sherry and any meat dish (rare). 

I watched this film on HBO or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this culty creature feature. 

A Friend of the Family (Television Show, 2022)

October Challenge Day 27

So I binge watched this show after I already knew the story. And I was twice as mad afterwards. 

Let's dive into the [belch] story about this [bletch] monster: 

A Friend of the Family

First of all: what a fucking loser. You sorry piece of shit. 

Okay, now on to the story. This is a dramatization of an actual piece of garbage who stole a young girl - multiple times - and the family trusted him the whole time.

This is a cautionary tale, but also not really. This family was completely oblivious to dangers and this douche canoe took advantage of it. This family already suffered from the shame of ignorance and I won't add once ounce to that. They have nothing to be ashamed of. This guy was a piece of shit. 

That said, you don't get to be a savvy bad bitch without having a few hard conversations with the universe. Or maybe a really good friend telling some hard truths - as is in my case most of the time. And that's where you'll find me screaming at the TV 90% of the time for this story. This family needed some bad bitches ... instead they had religion :(

In any case, this family was poorly equipped to handle this master manipulator, this narcissistic [belch] person, this garbage example of a human being. And he did incredible damage. As most narcissists do. 

I like to think I can see garbage people coming from a mile away because I am, actually an intense introvert. I value my time, energy, and space so highly that to be a part of my space is big deal. THAT SAID, while I feel I can see leaches pretty quickly - they often smell and have a lecherous look, not joking about the smell, it's like sour milk - I've been suckered from time-to-time. 

This is a hard show to watch, but as the victim pointed out at the very beginning, this is a story to relay in hopes of helping people to understand what to look for in a monster. They live right next door and sometimes you call them a friend. 

I struggled about recommending which film to watch first - about this story.  This one is a television show with some dramatizations, while the documentary movie hits so fast in the face you can hardly believe what you're hearing. 

I watched the documentary first, Abducted in Plain Site, a few years ago. And then I just watched this show. AND THEN I watched the documentary again. I haven't made a conclusion. Just watch both if you can stomach it.

I watched this show on Peacock or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this terrifying true story.

The Deeper You Dig (2019)

October Challenge Day 26

So I started up this film, not sure what to expect, and lo and behold, who should I see but my favorite Mother, Father, Daughter movie producers, actors, score writers, movie making tag team! Hell yeah, Adams family! Let's dive into:

The Deeper You Dig

I love these three. You can't help but feel the love they have for each other in real life AND THEN their creative energy working together to make some seriously f*ucked up shit! 

Hi, hello. I know I'm a 43 year old widow but can you adopt me? Can I be a part of this family??

Smart, succinct, and moody as hell, here we have the story of a late night road accident turned maddening when Mom goes out looking for her missing daughter. She's got her eye on you, sir. 

This film reminded me a lot of the Greenbrier Ghost story. Where a ghost was legally allowed as evidence to prove a murder because mama didn't back down! Fascinating story, actually. 

This film is going to lean on the artsy side - as an FYI for you folks who don't care for that. I think everyone should check it out though. Again, I love this family and what they are able to create together. Bonus! Their band Hellbender (H6LLB6ND6R) is KICK ASS *and* their film, Hellbender is pretty rocking too!

In all, this one has all the witchy bitch bad ass Moms vibes and I'm here for it. Hell, I was raised by a witch and [kiss to the universe] Happy Birthday, Mom. Continue keeping an eye from the other side of the veil. <3

I watched this film on Amazon Prime or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this creeper. 

Leptirica aka The She-Butterfly (1973)

October Challenge Day 25

Who wants in on on some made-for-TV Yugoslavian creature feature fun? YOU! Hell yeah, lets dive into:

Leptirica aka The She-Butterfly 

First and foremost, this adaptation of a Serbian folk story is both charming and shocking. Throughout most of the film you have a curious cast of characters who are just trying to rid their small village of a vampire infestation in the local mill. 

Then we also have a young couple in love and the guardian of the young lady won't allow for a marriage. 

Oh how will this mystery and murder spree turn out...?

I spent a significant amount of the film huffing and puffing about how the one and only woman portrayed in the film was treated. Here's this free spirit, running wild in the woods, barefoot and sun kissed. And all these dudes in town are talking about her as if she's their property. Her guardian in particular. 

Have no fear, folks, her crush is going to "take her" if he doesn't receive a marriage blessing... 

Oh ho ho. And then the ending happened and ... and I didn't see it coming...

In all, this is a real treasure of a film and a folk story. It's super cheeky, smart at the same time, and just a great film to sink your teeth into time for anyone interested in watching something a little different. 

Pairs with copious amounts of wine, bread - anything with wheat - and best watched alone. 

I watched this film on Shudder or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find hidden gem.

Waxwork (1988)

October Challenge Day 24

I had documented - years ago - that I've seen this film ... but I had no memory of it so I decided to watch it again (apparently). 

Well, I can say for certain, I have never seen this film before because I absolutely would have remembered: 

Waxwork

Quick clarification - this is not a remake of the silent film I reviewed earlier: Waxworks. Very different!

Oh My Goodness, folks! This film is so much fun! Sure, sure, we have some classic 1980's trash here, but it's the fancy stuff. 

Extraordinarily clever and executed with an excellent cast and deliberate charm, humor, and just a solid story, this is one I'll be rewatching again and again because it's just that kind of fun.

Here we have some college students who receive a strange invite to a midnight show at the new (where in the world *did* it come from anyway) wax museum. 

As they examine and get *drawn in* to the exhibits, people begin to go missing... Uh oh!

This is a slasher - a slashic, if you will - like none other. I also just can't get over how much I laughed, on purpose, the laughs this film generates is on purpose. Also the kill scenes are wild! But's the war with the dead and demons that really takes the cake.  

Folks, gather your friends or watch alone, either way, you're going to have a good time. A traditional pizza and beer movie night with this one! An excellent, excellent pick for a Halloween night movie with most horror fans.

I watched this film on the Roku Channel, or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can catch this flashy feature. 

The Whip and the Body (1963)

October Challenge Day 23

How long has this film been on my To-Watch list.... how long... A Long Time! Why? Well, because I know, as with most giallo films and just Mario Bava being Mario Bava, I need  to set time aside to focus and be mentally/emotionally prepared for these films.

The time is right for this film now. Let's take a look at:

The Whip and the Body

As the title suggests .... we have some whip action going on here ...

In a dark castle, long ago and far away, there lived a lovely but haunted woman who has just become unwillingly engaged to her old flame's brother. Well, well, well, this old flame comes strolling back into the castle after being banished and our woman here is not sure how she feels about his sudden arrival. 

Oh yes, it's coming back to them now, they f*cking loved sadism and masochism. He brought the whip and verbal abuse, and she LOVED and HATED it.

Then suddenly this man is found stabbed to death in his bedroom. No one knows who did it AND he's haunting the place now, still with the whip, and looking for her...

Moody and atmospheric, sexual and abusive, this is a film for when you're in the mood for madness, pain, and maybe a little pleasure. You do you, boo.

Overall, a little treasure of a film that, again, will require your full attention if you want to capture all the crazy eyes and deep breaths. Bonus, Christopher Lee is terrifying here, I loved it.

Best watched on a dark and stormy night - bring a friend... make it a double feature with Bitter Moon!

I watched this film on Shudder or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can watch this playful pinch of a picture. 

Slaughter High (1986)

October Challenge Day 22

OH YEEEEAAH! Check out the poster image - just LOOK AT IT! We already know what we're getting into with:

Slaughter High

Oh here we go! You know the story folks - a bunch of teenagers (it's the 80's so they're really all in their 30s) are being assholes and the target of their bullying comes back for revenge... YEAH Bring it!

This is another classic revenge slasher, but it is also its own entertainment. For instance, while the prank-gone-wrong happened back in high school, it's the 10 year class reunion now, it's all behind us right? We're a little older, wiser - it's all good now right? 

WRONG

One of the most entertaining elements of this film is the "high school" building. According to IMDB, apparently the buildings used were an abandoned asylum and an abandoned grammar school. [chefs kiss] I loved it. The setting - filmed nearly all at night - looks exactly like a place I would go exploring if given the chance. 

I'd have no problem doing that either because I ain't afraid of no ghosts AND I didn't spend my high school years as a bully (I fought'em though), and so I feel rest assured that I wouldn't be chased down the hall by someone in a giant jester costume. 

And that's our killer here folks, a giant jester costume, because the accident in high school occurred on April 1st. Oh yeah.

In all, this is a ridiculously silly slasher that holds plenty of twists by the end. Fun stuff. Bring the beer and friends, get ready for belly laughs and a gore fest. 

I watched this film on Tubi or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this slashic.

Benny Loves You (2019)

October Challenge Day 21

When I first stumbled upon this trailer I couldn't stop laughing at this killer toy going after folks with a knife. Let's take a closer look at:

Benny Loves You

Here we have a 35 year old man, stuck behind in his work life and love life, and then suddenly his parents tragically die and he's left to close up the house he can't afford. 

While he is sifting through his grief and all the memories, he comes across an old childhood toy. But he has no more space for such things and needs to move on, so in the trash little Benny goes. Benny didn't like that...

Folks, I can't stress enough how delightfully funny and legitimately alarming this killer stuffed toy is - particularly when it's running around. I'm not sure how they filmed this but it's GOOD.

One could argue that this film is a deeper look into the grief of loosing your parents, your childhood, feeling like you're not good enough or haven't reached enough mile posts by a certain age, or another side of you comes out in self defense of these traumatic, confusing feelings ... or you could just enjoy this wacky, wild ride. 

This one is just fun, the kill scenes are outrageous, and it's a pretty good pick for those who are not into 'super' scary films. In all, a solid chuckle of a film that makes you take another look at the raging youth still in all of us. 

Best watched in a blanket fort with all your stuffed animals that no one knows about. Paris with pizza, sandwiches with the edges cut off, or your favorite chips.

I watched this film on Showtime or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this quiet Saturday night feature. 

The Last Thing Mary Saw (2021)

October Challenge Day 20

I was drawn to this film by its poster image. I rather like it.  So, I said "Why not" and I walked into this one blind.

*See what I did there? lololol

No seriously, I was intrigued by this film because of the poster image but had no idea what I was getting myself into. It's a lot. Let's take a dive into: 

The Last Thing Mary Saw

Here we have a very religious family in the 1840s, living in a large house in a remote and isolated area. 

What could possibly go wrong????

Uh oh. Let's tack on a lesbian romance between the maid and the daughter of the family....

I repeat, what could possible go wrong????

Oh, just about everything. 

This is a chilling and foreboding film that will require your full attention the entire time. I had to rewind several times because I looked away for a second. I also spent a majority of the film just raging. Rage, rage, rage. That feeling of being targeted for just being born a certain way - and the judgement and punishment inflicted by religious leaders and family members was physically enraging. SEE ALSO THE ROE v WADE TURNOVER RAGE THAT STILL SEEPS FROM MY PORES. Oh Oh Oh! SEE ALSO IRANIAN WOMAN RAGE RIGHT NOW.

Fuck off misogynists, bigots, homophobics, so-called Christians that don't demonstrate one Christ-like quality.

Anyway, so yeah, this film can tap into some justifiable rage that is present today. In this film, however, the prices paid by all are steep and violent. 

Poetic, menacing, passionate, and raw - this is not a film for all horror fans but it certainly is a horror film that speaks loudly on religious zealots and hypocrisy and the monsters created therein. 

I watched this film on Shudder or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this slow burn, heady film. 

Making Contact aka Joey (1985)

October Challenge Day 19

OMG. If a sugar high could be turned into a human being and then that human form could conjure up the funds to make a movie, I imagine it would look like this. Let's dive into:

Making Contact (also known as Joey)

Here we have a boy who is grieving the death of his father. He starts talking to him, to the universe, and something responds ... and it's not his father. 

FOLKS! FOLKS! This is one of the most batshit crazy films I've ever seen! We have:

A talking ventriloquist dummy who GROWLS IN RAGE and it shoots lasers out of its eyes!!!!

An ET attempt??????

A Poltergeist attempt?????

A Goonies attempt?????

Is there some Stephen King's IT in there too? I think so?

Every childhood toy from the 1980's you can think of. 

A giant killer hamburger.

A kid who's idol is Darth Vader!!!? :| 

And that's just the tip of the iceberg for this film!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, so this film is intended for kids, I think, but this film would traumatize children AND adults. I'm still traumatized, I can only imagine if I saw this when I was a kid... [shivers]

No seriously, this film is so bonkers - its the bonkers AND growling ventriloquist dummy that will stick with you late at night. 

In all, this film is a An Experience that must, I stress, must, be experienced at least once. You really won't believe it until you see it. 

Best watched with your best movie watching crew. Get out all your dishes from the 1980's - make your favorite but stupid meal, and settle in for a Wild, Wild, Wild ride.  

I watched this film on Tubi or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this highly unusual gem. 

Eli Roth Presents: A Ghost Ruined My Life (Television Show, 2021)

October Challenge Day 18

You all know I won't EVER turn down a ghost show. GIVE ME ALL THE GHOST SHOWS!

Good, bad, ugly - I don't care. I'll watch them all.

That said, when I saw the title for this one, I did laugh. I just had a hard time taking this title seriously. Let's take a look at:

Eli Roth Presents: A Ghost Ruined My Life

Folks. I binged watched the 1st season in just a matter of days. It's startling good!

Sure, sure, we have the simple, classic set-up of folks sitting in a chair and retelling their ghost story (with re-enactments happening on the side). But this one adds the additional spin with the story sharers going back to the 'scene of the crime', which turned out pretty well!

I walked into this with skepticism because of this title - and I don't have anything against Eli Roth - it's just this title still feels so over-the-top, even though I liked this show a lot! 

That all said, the interviewees seemed very legitimate, with folks still recovering from their traumatic experience. They shared some very scary stories and I have no doubt their experience did ruin some things in their life. I've also never heard of any of these stories, which is rare for me, I've seen the same ones told across multiple paranormal shows.  

*Now, I've said it so many times before but I feel it's necessary to repeat: the field in which I grow my f*cks about you not believing in ghosts, is barren. I really don't give a shit. Fine, have a good time with that. I'm not here to convince you.*

In all, I became absorbed in this show and the way the stories are told. Very Solid Entertainment!

Best watched when you can binge watch a couple episodes - I recommend from the bed when you should actually be sleeping. Oh, if you have a story to share .... let them know here!

grml@creamproductions.com

I watched this film on my Philo app, or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this smart, spooky show! 

No One Gets Out Alive (2021)

October Challenge Day 17

I was pretty surprised that I had never heard of this movie earlier OR the book the film is based on. Admittedly, I'm really behind on my horror novels.... but! I loved the trailer - so let's check out: 

No One Gets Out Alive

Oh goodness, this one dives right into the complicated and heartbreaking world of immigration - and the very, very, very vulnerable place some immigrants (particularly if they arrive without all the proper documentation) experience. 

Here we have a young woman who is just trying to start a new life after her mother passes. She has a chance with a distant cousin to secure a great job but she's low on funds, the sweat shop just fired her, and worse still, she's living a very precarious house that she shares with two unnerving men.

This one takes turns I never saw coming - and it straight up startled me. In fact, now I want to read the book!

A deep-seeded menace is lurking in every corner of this haunting Victorian home. I found myself sitting with an anxious heart for our young woman who is getting so close to her goals.... and by the very end I was all "WTFFFFFFFF? Was That!?" I'm sure you will too. 

In all, a solid creeper that calls on some folk horror themes. Folk horror, damn stuff gets me every time... So Unsettling!

Best watched on a dark night, alone. Pairs with a bottle of warm beer and sad snacks. 

I watched this film on Netflix or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can see this Religions Gone Wild of a show. 

Ebirah, Horror of the Deep (1966)

October Challenge Day 16

OMG OMG OMG! One of my favorite things in the world is spending a weekend afternoon doing chores or meal planning for the week, and watching giant creature feature films as they smash their way through cities to my heart!

Let's check out:

Ebirah, Horror of the Deep

The story kicks off with a missing ship and a young man who brings along his friends to go on the waters to search for this ship and his missing brother. 

Uh Oh. 

There's a f*cking giant crustacean under the water and it capsizes all their plans!!!!!!!!

Don't worry, they all survived but now they are wandering this strange island they just washed ashore upon, when they stumble upon...

Uh Oh! 

A secret and evil nuclear base, and the sinister people there are kidnapping people from the local tribe!!!

What is this ragtag team going to do?! They need to hide, but where? Oh yes. This giant cave should do. 

Uh Oh! It's f*ucking Godzilla's house!

Oh things are really getting crazy ... how will everyone make it out of this mess? Maybe the local tribe could call on ...

F*cking Mothra!!!!

 

Goodness, good god. I love this stuff so much. 

You don't need to know any more than this - you just need to enjoy the chaos. This beautiful, beautiful, heartwarming chaos. 

Pairs with all the fun but messy and maybe a little trashy food. I watched this film on Tubi, or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this gloriously fun feature. 

The Watcher (Television Show, 2022)

October Challenge Day 15

Oh yeah! When I first heard about this true story and THEN heard there were talks about turning this wild story into a movie, it was instantly on my radar. Imagine my delight when I received an email notification alerting me to "...there's a new arrival you might like ...".

Hell yeah, let the binge watching commence for:

The Watcher

Folks, when I first heard about this story - seriously, check out the Casefile episode here - it blew my mind! 

And this new Netflix series release did a mighty fine job capturing the quirks, scares, and straight up bonkers elements. Elaborated at times, even cheeky and goofy (particularly with the social climate as of late), nevertheless, it still entertains. 

With a star-studded cast, and the flavors of American Horror Story that we all know and love, I fully endorse binge watching this one - with one little caveat: it lags a little in the middle. Just roll with it.

Now, if you're new to this story, here's a quick recap (of both the real story and the show):

A family puts everything they own (money, etc) into purchasing a grand old house in an inclusive and quirky neighborhood. Things are stressful but they're sure they'll make it and settle in alright soon. 

NOPE

Someone calling themselves The Watcher is sending the family strange and disturbing letters - alluding to blood, watching the children, and other more sinister things. Very disturbing things, to say the least, anytime let alone when you move into a big old house in a new neighborhood.  

Yeah, this is a fun show. An excellent way to wind down the evening and spark that classic 1930's/1940's whodunit feels.  

Best watched curled up on the couch, bring lots of blankets - pairs with popcorn and your favorite drink. 

As of today, this show is exclusively on Netflix. 

Waxworks (1924)

October Challenge Day 14

It's been a while since I've watched a silent film. I thoroughly enjoy them, and the German expressionism style of the silent films in this era is a particular favorite of mine! 

Let's dive into the original and visually fascinating

Waxworks

Here we have the story of a traveler who is hired by a wax museum father/daughter team, to write the stories about three of their notorious characters: caliph Harun Al-Rashid (for his scandalizing sexual escapades), Ivan the Terrible (for obvious reasons), and - confusingly, a figure continuously referred to as Jack the Ripper elsewhere but the film refers to Spring-Heeled Jack (who is totally different!). 

Well, the writer, while working, can't help but picture himself and this lovely daughter of the museum owner in all the stories he writes. So essentially, it's a three part anthology film. 

This one is pretty fun, charming, and a good pick for the whole family - particularly if there are family members who have never experienced a silent film/silent films like this. 

Best watched in a dark room, pairs with fresh bread made at home and the smell is lingering in the air. Wear interesting clothes. 

I watched this film on a free classic movie channel on my Roku, or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find gem of a feature. 

The Field Guide to Evil (2018)

October Challenge Day 13

This one came recommended to me when it was first released - and I will admit, immediately, I thought it was going to be a bit heady and artsy, but I wasn't expecting it to be *this* heady and artsy! (which I don't mind at all!)

Let's dive into - 

The Field Guide to Evil

Here with have an anthology film, filled with myths and legends collected from around the world.  Folks, this film is BEAUTIFUL. Lovely, gorgeous, totally disturbing and very beautiful. 

However! This is a hard one to watch in one sitting. It was difficult for me and I love, love, love art house films. 

All of the stories here are vastly different - and not in just the stories presented. They each have their own style, director, and feel. It's a little difficult to mentally and emotionally transition between each of them (although the transitions are brilliant!). I was trying to understand why there were quite a few low ratings for this film until I noticed a lot of the complaints were about the difficulty of paying attention/keeping the audience engaged. 

I actually don't disagree. I think this one would best be appreciated in small bites. Think of it as a huge, expensive coffee table book, filled with stories about abandoned places around the world. You wouldn't necessarily sit down one day and read the whole thing - you would peruse it, appreciate the lovely photos, and read about one abandoned place while having an afternoon tea. 

That's how I recommend watching this beauty. 

In all, take your time with this one. Sit back, enjoy the art, enjoy the passionate retelling of cultural horrors, embrace the folk horror. 

I watched this film on HBO or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this morbid curiosity.

Orphan: First Kill (2022)

October Challenge Day 12

I was pretty excited about this one - especially since the original story, Orphan, just blew me out of the water. 

 - damn Orphan is such a great film - 

Okay, so let's dive into:

Orphan: First Kill

As the title suggests, this film is an origin story about how sweet Esther came to be .... Esther...

Now, although an origin story, I'm not going to suggest watching this film first if you haven't already seen Orphan. Don't ruin the surprise for yourself. 

Okay, so this film doesn't have the same kick as the original film, but it's TOTALLY impressive they were able to make Isabelle Fuhrman still look 10 years old, 13 years later! Totally impressive. And of course she's still great in it. 

Overall this is a fun new look at one of horror film's more interesting and terrifying monsters. 

It's hard to share anything more about this film without giving away way too much. Just sit back and give it a spin - after you've seen the original. 

Pairs with fine dinner dishes around the table with the family....wear a fancy little dress. 

I watched this film on Paramount+ or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this sneaky little charmer. 

Giant from the Unknown (1958)

October Challenge Day 11

Oh I am such a SUCKER for these 1950's horror films. They are just chaos. So I'm really excited to talk about the insanity that is: 

Giant from the Unknown

Hahahaha! First of all - they know where this giant is from. It's not unknown. It's a 500 year old conquistador. Not joking. But moving on!

Okay, so this film opens with several ranchers hanging out on the main street of a small Sierra mountains town, all talking about (in great detail) the animal mutilations they are coming across. It was alarmingly graphic and then, suddenly, a Native American man comes walking up and shouts "All White Men Die!"

AND I ABOUT FELL OUT OF MY CHAIR FROM LAUGHING SO HARD

It just was out of the blue.

Aaaannndddd then the film is peppered with more racist and sexist comments from there on out, as expected from these films. 

This film is just nuts and rather more original in plot and characters than I expected. It follows some archaeologists who are trying to solve the mystery of a lost giant conquistador, and when a lightning storm comes through - it strikes in just the right spot and Boom! Something awakes...

Not at all like the personal experience I had when I spent the weekend in a small Sierra mountain town for a wedding. I just fell into a hole in the ground and everyone just laughed and laughed at me. :|

In all, this is a dated and goofy little picture show that would be a fun one for a late night with friends or watch in bed.

Pairs with camping dishes and best watched in a blanket fort. I watched this film on Hoopla or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this 'campy' feature. 

Monstrous (2022)

October Challenge Day 10

Oh the unraveling mind. So many ways in which this experience can be turned into a horror film. Let's take a look at:

Monstrous

Here we have the story of a young mother, running away with her young son from her abusive husband. Painted with a 1950's backdrop, this film is all about feel, texture, and time.

They find themselves settling into a large home in a remote and desolate place, excited - at least she is - about their new future. Her son is not so thrilled and is complaining about a lady that comes out of the lake at night. 

Uh Oh.

Like most horror films about madness, viewers are forced to question their own reality and then often find themselves in a sort of sorrow by the end after a reveal about what is *actually* happening, occurs. This is no exception and yet it actually took me by surprise. 

This is a spooky little creeper that will leave some chills. A nice pick for a lazy day - and overall, a decent film about the horrors of grief and change.

God Told Me To (1976)

October Challenge Day 9

Oh yeah! From the genius that brought us  Q: The Winged Serpent and The Stuff  (BOTH EXCELLENT FILMS, BY THE WAY), we have another one I was pretty excited about. 

Let's talk about:

God Told Me To

Folks, it should come as no surprise that this one is going to rip into organized religion. The surprise though, will be in it's execution and reveal! It's a Larry Cohen film though, so it should also come as no surprise that this film is going to get WEIRD. Like very, very weird. 

A word of warning, this film kicks off - right away - with a very dramatic and unsettling mass shooting in the middle of a public place. An all too often real life occurrence that pisses me right the f off.

The reason for these shootings and mass killings? The murderers were happy, elated even, to share that it was God that told them to commit the acts. It actually felt like I was listening to some QAnon or MAGA folks trying to passionately reason their insane logic....

Now this New York City cop needs to understand why and where all this madness is coming from. 

This is a rough film for a wide variety of reasons - not only is the subject tough, it's complicated and wayward and I had to continuously rewind the film because I missed a small crucial second. This one will will require your full, quiet attention at all times. 

In all it's a descent, wild ride, but not everyone's flavor. Be prepared to have more questions after the film than when you started. 

Pairs with communion and existential dread. 

I watched this film on Shudder or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this mind-melter. 

Pig (2021)

October Challenge Day 8: 

I've been running this blog for 10 years now and you know what one of my favorite, unsolicited, thoughts from the public are: 

"such and such a film is not a horror film". 

Yesterday, a dude wrote on my personal Facebook page, "I'm sorry, Jaws and Alien are not horror films". 

LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLO

Okay, TOM. 

Whatevs

Settle down, gatekeepers. Look, the world is your oyster. Make a horror film out of ANYTHING. For instance, this hermit in the woods and his truffle pig. Let's take a look at:

Pig

The is a very original look into loss and grief. Heartbreaking, even - which is its own level of horror. 

Here we have a once world famous chef who has decided to spend the last of his years hiding in the Oregon woods, hunting for the finest truffles with his pig. 

And then some folks steal his pig and he goes on a hunt through Portland to find his beloved pig. 

That's about it! Gritty, menacing, and with a whole lot of Fight Club flare, this one is going to hit you in all the feels when you least expect it. 

So I live in Seattle and love our coastal cities - Portland, OR, Seattle, WA, and Vancouver, BC. I know them well and love everything about the Pacific Northwest. This film captured a lot of it well - particularly the feel. 

I also almost fell out of my chair when this interaction happened:

"I don't want to move to Seattle"

Nicolas Cage responds: "Fuck Seattle"

LOLOLOLOLOLOLO

Spoken like someone from Portland. Gaddam I love that city.

Haters are gonna hate and so many people will not consider this a horror film. I don't care - behold my field in which I grow my fucks and you'll see that it is barren.

This is a raw and honest film and it captures so much more than just a man looking for his pig. 

Also, don't listen to anyone who tries to tell you what is and what is not considered a horror film. Life is horror. And comedy, and romance, and thrillers - and sometimes they can all be the same thing.

Best watched alone. Pairs with pies. 

I watched this film on Hulu or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this eye-opening feature. 

Grandmother's House (1988)

October Challenge Day 7: 

Okay. 

Um. 

So my husband was orphaned at 12 years old and I was essentially on my own at 10, taking care of my brothers.

I walked into this film with a bad attitude. 

Please, by all means, tell me about grandmother's house. Folks, [long hand drag down the face]. It's been a while since I've seen a film this bad. 

Let's dive into:

Grandmother's House

This film upset me on so many levels. 

Not only is it all OVER The Place! It does't have the courtesy of being a story worth telling, because there is none. I've watched this movie twice and I was mad both times. I understand that the '80s had a plethora of slashers - and I frankly love 90% of them - and the 10% remaining .... make me a little mad. This is one of them.

Here we have orphaned children moving into their grandparent's place. They are, logically, traumatized. The grandparent's are all "It will be fine!" and I'm all. Nope. Nope, that's not how it works. 

So I was cleaning the house through most of the rest of it, but it got ugly when the kids discovered their grandparents are doing some sketchy shit and maybe there is a body in the basement. I thought they would roll with that but no. No, it got more insane and that's why I'm not giving this movie any more energy. I just got more angry as the movie progressed. 

Watch at your own peril. I love '80s films but even after two watchings, I could not make it  palpable. 

The Stoning of Soraya M. (2008)

October Challenge Day 6

Folks, I've been watching the protests in Iran. I've been watching the girls and women fighting back the suppression they've suffered under for the last 43 years.  

AND I WANT THEM TO BURN IT ALL DOWN TO THE GROUND. BURN THAT REGIME TO THE GROUND YOU BAD BITCHES!

In 2008, and with very little knowledge of what exactly life was like for women in Iran, I took myself out to a movie, this movie, and I still have not forgotten the horror I saw here - knowing that this is the life woman face in Iran. 

Want to know why these protests are occurring and why these bad bitches are burning their hijabs and shouting all sorts of curse words and chants? Let's check out:

The Stoning of Soraya M. 

I was in jaw-dropped horror in the theater, as I watched and understood that people Actually Think Killing A Woman in Public is Socially Acceptable! Not just acceptable - required! Because some dude said so. 

The dude in question here is her abusive husband.

Want to know why? Because he could. That's it. That's it. Oh and he wanted to marry a teen girl.

[Screaming, so much screaming, just outright rage - the walls are shaking]

Folks, I'm still mad as hell about the Roe v Wade overturn!!!

[Things are being thrown, items crashing on the wall, shelves are cleared in one swoop of a rage-fueled tattooed arm]

In this story, a caring aunt tries to get the story out about her niece's stoning to a passing journalist - even much at her own - and the journalist's - peril. And of course this is based on a true story. Because of course it is. It's Iran. It's the world. It's just being a woman and this is the shit we face.

I stand with you, woman of Iran. 

The Black Phone (2021)

October Challenge Day 5

So I am a true crime podcasts, book, documentary, TV shows, CONSUMER.

In the shower? Listening to podcasts or books. 

Riding the bus? More of the same.

Cleaning the house? Catching a glance at the TV as I'm vacuuming. 

Overhearing a conversation about this topic? I'm Jumping Right In!

I even made a TikTok video about it. I'm on mf TikTok now! Lololololol. Come find me. I'm still working out the details about how to do movie reviews here but, I'll figure it out. 

Back to the movie. 

I bring all this up because this movie is a true crime, real life nightmare. Let's check out:

The Black Phone

Okay, folks. This is a story about child abduction and their deaths.

Here we have a fucking waste of space kidnapping young men and smuggling them away in his creepy van to their final days in a derelict basement. 

But his reign of terror is coming to an end when he kidnaps a boy who can speak to the dead through a strange phone in this basement. The ghosts of the boys call him through this phone and give him some bad skills to KICK SOME FUCKING ASS. 

I don't normally give spoilers but I feel it's important to know that this story ends with catching some hands.

The filming is beautiful, despite it's morbid story line. The writing and characters are brilliant and you feel connected in so many ways. The 1970's background is so tangible you can almost feel the wood paneling and scratchy, ugly couches.

Best watched when ready to explore trauma and retribution. 

I watched this film on Peacock or use the find Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's sidebar to see where else you can find this punch in a bully's face of a film.

Ghost Writer (1989)

October Challenge Day 4: 

This film has been on my To Watch list for a while now, but I couldn't find it anywhere. So when I got a Letterboxd notification that it's now available to stream, I jumped into my jim-jammies, cracked open a beer, and settled on the couch with a load of blankets and two cats.

I'm Here For This Delightful Campy Shite!

Let's check out:

Ghost Writer

Oh lordy. Folks. I love THIS STUFF!

Here we have a journalist just trying to take a break from things in her distant relative's beach house. Little did she know, the house is haunted by a famous movie star who allegedly committed suicide several decades earlier. 

The ghost makes an appearance and the journalist is determined to solve the star's actual murder. 

This film is so '80s you can smell the neon and Aqua Net. I LOVE IT!

They make no effort hiding that the ghost is a Marilyn Monroe knock-off. Didn't even try. That's fine, it actually kinda grew on me. They also made no effort in providing the journalist with an even remotely interesting and less cringey love interest. I was making the yikes face every time he came on screen and I kept wanting to scream "guuurrl! Get Out Of There". Nope. This is an '80s film and we're just all going to laugh at the sexism. They look happy though, but if you look close enough, the journalist is blinking twice for help.

This is all cheese, cheek, and cuteness. Don't ask for anything in-depth, don't ask for stellar acting or dialogue. If you're an old hat at these films then you know exactly what you're getting. If you're new then well, welcome, this is an acquired taste. 

Watch with complete and total nonsense and zero shits to give. Pairs with food eaten directly out of bags, and a whole bottle of something because you're worth it. 

I watched this film on Hoopla or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you might find this ghostly gem of silliness. 

Alone With You (2021)

 October Challenge Day 3:

I have this uncanny ability to judge movie posters (and the type of movie it will turn out to be) with savant-like skills. I have yet to be wrong and I will eat my shoe when I am. 

So when this film showed up as I was scrolling I was all: Yep. This will be pure anxiety. 

GUESS WHAT? IT IS!

Let's take a little look into:

Alone With You

Here we have a woman waiting for her girlfriend to come back home - she's been traveling and our young woman here is looking forward to the romantic reunion. 

Folks, it should come as no surprise that this reunion is not going to go as planned. 

This film focuses on one person 99.9% of the time, and claustrophobicly in a New York City apartment. We have heart break, madness, no sense of time, and hard, cold realizations that someone doesn't love you anymore. 

This film gives off all the anxiety and feelings of loss. I typically pace back and forth with these films, pausing the movie often. While some would argue these are not 'horror' films, I have and will continue to state they are nightmare-inducing and therefore, horror stories. More horrifying still, they tap into Very Real, everyday experiences. 

Best watched alone, with a bottle of wine on an empty stomach. Feel free to take a bath afterwards. 

I watched this film on Shudder, or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this sad chiller. 

Raw (2016)

October Challenge Day 2:

I have a love/hate relationship with French Extremism horror. More often than not, I end up totally traumatized and vowing never to watch another one of these films again. Which is why this one sat on my To Watch list for years.

I am happy to report that this film and I jived most excellently. Let's take a look at:

Raw

Here we have a promising young woman going off to veterinary school. She joins her older sister there and the party begins. Oh, and they are vegetarians. Oh, and hazing involves eating meat.

Uh Oh.

She experiences a transformation....

This film is chaos - complete and utter chaos, but rolled out so well, smoothly, and drenched in blood. Literally. 

Apparently people passed out in theaters when watching this film, which I totally expect from French extremism horror, but I did not.  I have a complicated relationship with food and in fact threw up my soup when watching Inside. To be fair, I did not like my soup and it was sitting poorly. 

This is a beautifully disgusting blood bath of sexuality, coming-of-age, mental transformations and addictions. It feels like a fever dream wrapped up in vague memories you can't trust. I also can't stop laughing at this review from Letterboxd:

I watched this film Netflix, or use the Find It! Watch It! links on Horror Habit's side bar to see where else you can find this madness. 

50 Horror Movies You May Have Missed (vol. 8)

Welcome to the eighth annual (And Happy 10th Birthday to Horror Habit!!) mega list of movies you may have missed! Hurrah for more movies, movies and lists!

So, without further ado and to welcome in this year's October Challenge, I present:

50 Horror Movies You May Have Missed (vol. 8)

Because there will be more. Oh yes, there will be more. 

A Ghost Waits (2020): In the mood for a charming, little black-and-white film about falling in love with a ghost? Well look no further! Sweet, clever, succinct and well developed - this film is perfect for a delightful night in. Pairs with wine and construction projects. 

After Midnight (2019): Here a guy is thinking back to the best times with his girl - gushy, cute, loving memories - after she suddenly disappeared. I was all, "yeah yeah, move on" with their cuddle sessions on a hammock, because there's also A MONSTER THAT ATTACKS THE HOME EVERY NIGHT! I Love This Film! Read more in my review here.

Alien Predator aka The Falling (1986): I'm not entirely sure what this movie had planned for itself but it came out looking a lot like a conglomeration of several different iconic films. I'll leave it at that. But the end result is a hilariously entertaining and alarmingly solid creature feature. Read more in my review here.

Alleluia (2014): Folks, this film is a nightmare view into 100% - no question - absolutely - soul crushing look into a wild and dangerous world of an outrageously unhealthy relationship. This film is beautiful! Horrifyingly beautiful! A slow but calculated walk into the rotting stench of obsessive madness and mental illness. Read more in my review here. 

Alone (2020): This grieving woman just wants to take a quiet road trip into the woods, alone. Alone that is, until a man with the typically (comically) large serial killer glasses crosses her path... Tense, little dialogue, and a roller-coaster of emotions, this film is a good pick for a cold, chilly evening. Pairs with food and drink using camping gear. Set up tent. 

Armistice aka War House (2013): A solider awakes, trapped in a house full of monsters that he has to battle every day while also trying to understand why he's trapped. This is a rough look into madness and arguably about PTSD. Not a film for everyone. It's heady and hard to watch at times. 

Be My Cat: A Film For Anne (2015): A found footage film about a man who just wants Anne Hathaway to play as a cat in his film. You know, harmless stuff, just a simple request... NOTHING WEIRD HERE... Pairs with Romanian dishes. 

The Believers (1987): Oh you know, just Martin Sheen getting wrapped up in a cult that kills children... annnnnd it was watched 'religiously' by the murderous cult founded by Adolfo_Constanzo.

Belle de Jour (1967): Here we have a lovely and adored (but bored) wife discovering her kinky sexuality. So she takes up sex work in a brothel. What could go wrong? This is a beautifully filmed story, it's stunning, actually. Haunting, troubling, and beautiful. This one sticks with you for a long time.

Brain Damage (1988): A nice young man wakes up one day with a creature attached to his body. This talking creature gives him a truly euphoric experience that he constantly needs more and more of and the creature needs sacrifices to feed on... a VERY telling story on addiction if you ask me. 

The Brain (1988): Brainwashing in action! This brain even eats people (among other things)! Here we have a classic, classic '80s B-movie that will be a perfect fit for a pizza and beer evening with friends. 

Cast A Deadly Spell (1991): This is simply a very strange and often confusing film on many levels - it feels like an alien trying to walk around in a human suit. There is an especially frightening creature that pops out of a cooking pot though! Bonus points there. In all, I had a lot of sighs but also a lot of, WTAF (can't look away). Probably best watched in a group and on a lazy afternoon. Pairs with whiskey drinks and ... that's probably about it. Read more in my review here.

Communion (1989): What do you think would happen if Christopher Walken goes out to a family cabin in the woods and encountered aliens? Well, you'll find out here with this film! This film surprised me for many reasons but it's Christopher Walken that surprised me the most - which is a surprise in itself because it's Christopher Walken. 

Devil Dog: The Hound of Hell (1978): This one smells like a spin-off of The Omen, and I didn't care at all. Here we have a dog that is actually a part of the Devil, and as a cute looking pup, moves in with a lovely family ... and then begins to possess the family. This is a fun film for a weird afternoon. 

The Devil-Doll (1936): Here we have a wild, wild, story about a revenge and killer dolls. From the 1930's!! Naturally, the story is brought to us by the morbid and menacing genius of Tod Browning. This is a perfect fit for a chilly late night, curled up under the blankets and with a warm cup of tea or a fine wine. 

Down a Dark Hall (2018): Ah yes, another spooky girl's boarding school tucked away in the woods. Sign Me Up! This is what you expect - a difficult teen girl is sent away only discover she's surrounded by evil - and also not what you expect in the end. This is a fine choice for a quiet night in with something simmering on the stove. Pairs with drama. 

Eaten Alive (1976): OH HELL YEAH! Tobe Hooper brings us another insane redneck family and it's not looking good for the travelers who stumble upon this family's home. Here we have cannibalism, alligators, and just utter chaos. I love it. Crack open that beer and settle in for a wild ride. 

Eating Raoul (1982): This film took me by complete surprise. Not only is it devilishly funny, it's a fun ride - while watching all the murders. In short, a sexual assault leads to mayhem and business deals (gone wrong.... or has it?). Best watched in a hilarious outfit. 

Eyes of Fire (1983): Looking for a little different type of folk horror? Well, look no further! This is a creeping, crawling, quiet film that will require your entire attention. Best watched on an awkward evening and with strange food you were always curious to try.

Fear (1996): This film follows a teen who, with her friend, run into some "bad boys" and sparks fly between them all. Sparks may fly out of defiance or an honest to goodness blind view of the world, or, more likely as the movie suggests, a distorted view of what love really means. Pairs with backup, a packed bag, and security systems. Best watched when ready. Read more in my review here.

Friday The 13th Part III (1982): Folks, all you need to know is that this is the film where Jason obtains his famous hokey mask. That's it. If you haven't seen it yet - drop everything and watch it now. 

Good Time (2017): Folks, it should come as no surprise that this film is not a good time. It's a roller-coaster of chaos, anxiety, and cringe. There is one scene in particular at the very end that still haunts me. Here we have a botched bank robbery and the madness that ensues trying to fix it. Pairs with whiskey. 

The Haunted (1991): Based on the book, The Haunted: One Family's Nightmare by Ed and Lorraine Warren, Robert Curran, and Jack and Janet Smurl, this story follows the Smurl family and the nightmares endured in their haunted duplex. Not a new premise and it has all the classic haunting situations, but this is legit a fascinating tale, regardless if you believe in ghosts or not. Read more in my review here.

Hellbender (2021): Here we have a teen girl, being a rebellious teen girl, and all her mother is trying to do is keep her from understanding her full potential for MURDER. A fun, gruesome, film, but my favorite part is that it's made (and acted) entirely by real life mother, father, and daughter. 

The Honeymoon Killers (1970): One of the original films based on real-life murderers Raymond Fernandez and Martha Beck (see also the other film listed here, Alleluia) - this is a gritty and incredibly difficult look into toxic relationships. A rough, devilishly beautiful, and uncomfortable ride. 

The House That Jack Built (2018): Well, here we have a serial killer that's just trying to build a house (sort of). Things, naturally, go terribly, terribly wrong as he navigates his history and his victims. An interesting look into psychopathic behavior and a murderer's attempts to rationalize the behavior. 

Last Night in Soho (2021): Folks. I. Love. This. Film. LOVE IT! Look, all this girl wants to do is be a fashion designer, and when she's accepted to an exclusive school in Soho, her heart and mind is taken over by visions of a mysterious woman from the 1960's. Fashion plans do not go as planned. Pairs with martinis and rage. 

Marrowbone (2017): In this story sibling are trapped together in a spooky old mansion, out in the woods, armed and ready to go to war their #1 threat: Their Father. Things are already dark in this twisted tale and they get darker, terribly so. There is so much charm and kindness in this shadowy story, making the unraveling of it all the more shocking. Read more in my review here. 

Mom (1991): Oh what fun, what fun. Mom is a werewolf! Seriously folks, this is an underrated fun one. A sweet, little old lady takes kindly to a stranger and whoops, he's a werewolf! That's about all you need to know. Pairs with friends, cheep beer, and ridiculously unhealthy food. 

Ms. 45 (1981): Here we have a young, mute woman who it attacked not once, but twice in one day as she's just going about her world, living her best life. Her being mute is a VERY interesting aspect and you'll have to watch until the itty bitty end to see how much of an impact her not being able to speak, actually speaks to the focus of the story and the film's message. Read more in my review here.

The Old Dark House (1932): Oh, hold on to your butts, folks - we have a classic whodunit! Several folks get trapped in a storm and retreat to the nearest shelter: An Old Dark House and there is something sinister lurking inside! Pairs with a chilly, dark night, fully lounging, wine, and maybe wear something satin. 

The Outsider (2020): Looking to binge something spooky and supernatural?! WELL ... be sure to check this out! It's a mini series that is drenched in sinister and brutal mayhem. Note, however, it involves the murder of children. It's a tough watch and alarmingly well done. 

Point of Terror (1971): Oh my oh my! Ready for a steamy, stinks of cigarettes and regret, murder mystery from the 1970's? Yeah you are. Sultry and deadly, this is a great choice for an evening when you've run out of f*cks to give and drinking straight out of the bottle. 

Prison (1987): Well, well, well - what do we have here. Ghostly revenge in a prison? Indeed we do. Bonus, a little bit of Viggo Mortensen. In all, this is a salty slasher that was just begging for trouble when the cursed prison was reopened and being run by a corrupt man. A fun choice for a movie night with friends looking for classy trash TV.

Race With The Devil (1975): This is a thrilling film! Honestly, I wasn't expecting to find a story about an RV tearing top speed through tumbleweeds and dirt piles to be so exciting. IT IS! In all, this is an overall menacing fun film with a Mad Max feel. Excellent choice for a late movie night. Read more in my review here. 

The Raking (2017): Here we have a film inspired by Creepy Pasta stories. You know, I wasn't expecting much from this one but it actually surprised me. Of course we have a bunch of college kids wandering in to the wild and terrible things happen. Of course we do. But this monster is The Rake - which is a pretty frightening creature. Zone out in odd delight here. 

The Reflecting Skin (1990): A fantasy story about a young boy who suspects his free-spirited older neighbor is a vampire. Folks, to be very honest, I didn't particularly like this film but it is an Experience that I will always advocate for. This film is certainly someone's taste even if it's not mine. An artsy, uncomfortable film.

Saint Maud (2019): This film exudes the smell of rot, mold, decay, and salt water. Dingy surroundings, small town drama, and the dying world of a once celebrated woman crawls across your skin like a thick salve. This salve suffocates though, instead of healing. I absolutely agree with some of the reviews calling this film mesmerizing. Read more in my review here.

She Waits (1972):  Here we have a recently remarried man bring his second wife home to meet Mother and see the family estate. But! There’s a deep secret buried within the walls of this home - a ghost guarding the mysterious death of the man’s first wife… YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Hell Yeah! Read more in my review here.  

Sleepaway Camp II: Unhappy Campers (1988): Oh hell yeah. You know what you're getting here. You Know!! Especially if you've seen the ending of the first Sleepaway Camp... we'll, we're back for round two of teens being slaughtered in some camp madness. Just sit down, crack open a beer, gather you're friends and get ready for the entertainment. 

Slugs (1988): KILLER SLUGS! KILLER SLUGS! I repeat: KILLER SLUGS! OMG 

Spirits of the Dead (1968): A Gothic anthology surrounded by some of Edgar Allan Poe stories. Dreamy, sultry, and surreal - according to the IMDB page, the tag line is "The ultimate orgy of evil". I don't know about that but it's certainly worth checking it out at least once, particularly on a lazy day, draped in your finest lounge wear. 

Stalking Laura aka I Can Make You Love Me (1993): Based on the true story of a woman who was stalked by her co-worker, this is a very very very troubling film simply because this SHIT HAPPENS ALL THE TIME. Get the f*ck out of here, you psychopathic and pathetic men who don't understand why a woman isn't interested in you. Go on now, 'git! And get yourself some gaddam therapy.  

Studio 666: Oh Foo Fighters, I love you. This is a charming little horror slasher - and I will stick to the initial thoughts I had when I walked out of the theater after seeing this film: This movie is a Love Letter to all the band mates, fans, and well - frankly, everyone. This blood bath is a love letter. :) 

Tales from the Dim (2015): Here we have a collection of animated short stories, drenched in blood and guts, where everyone dies horribly. Simple, bloody, I loved it. Gross, gross, gross - funny - gross animation. It seems these cartoons started as an internet series but now it can be seen on at least a Roku TV! I love this little collection, and it's perfect for a weekend afternoon break. Read more in my review here.

Unfriended (2014): I watched this right after the COVID lock-down kicked in. I thought it was going to be cheeky, a original found footage film, but you know what - I think after COVID, and all the Zoom meetings, etc - this one hits a little bit different. Certainly worthy of a view at least once. 

Unmasked Part 25 (1988): Here we have a serial killer [cough, cough - a famous one - cough] who has fallen in love and is questioning his purpose in life. Should he really continue slaughtering fun-loving teens? Review more in my review here.

Valentine (2001): The early 2000's slashers are their own flavor. Not at all like the '70s, quite a bit different from the '80s, and even in the '90s they have their own distinction. I really wasn't expecting much from this one but it honestly surprised me and it's a bit of a gory, moral, ride. Nice fit for a late night movie night in bed. 

Whoever Slew Auntie Roo? (1972): Oh I love these films so much! So bitter, so raw, so wrong, so delicious. I don't know if it's my perimenopause talking but I dig these f*cking films. They're nuts! Here we have an unhinged woman who becomes obsessed with a little girl from the orphanage. This little girl has a brother who is not going to let her out of his sight. Chaos ensues. 

Wolf Guy (1975): Folks. Sonny Chiba is a werewolf, kicking ass and taking names in Japan. WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT?

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