It’s been a memorable year for Jeff Bridges. He won his first Oscar back in March, is currently starring in the number one flick at the box office and is receiving more Academy Award buzz for his role in the remake of True Grit, which opens today. At 61, he in the midst of a career renaissance and is finally garnering the attention he has long deserved.

Looking over his filmography, I forgot just how many excellent movies he has appeared in throughout his 50-plus year career. It’s impossible to jam all his amazing performances into one Top Ten list because he’s had at least twenty that are worthy of inclusion. So, in no particular order, here are ten that I personally believe stand out from the pack.

10. Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (1974)

As the titular Lightfoot to Clint Eastwood’s Thunderbolt, Bridges steals the movie as a young, brash petty thief who joins Eastwood’s gang to rob an armored car company’s safe. He creates an endearing and ultimately tragic character in a very underrated heist flick.

9. Against All Odds (1984)

As washed-up football player Terry Brogan, Bridges assumes a leading man role opposite the incredibly sexy Rachel Ward. It combines elements of noir, romance and mystery into what amounts to a guilty pleasure. The best word to describe his character would be “visceral.” Lots of brawn with very little brains.

8. The Contender (2000)

It’s not easy to play a US President, but Bridges nails the part displaying the necessary confidence and charm befitting the leader of the free world. His final speech might be a tad melodramatic, but it’s delivered in an impassioned tone that screams, well, presidential.

7. The Last Picture Show (1971)

The movie that put him on the map is a compelling tale about leaving behind the innocent glory days of high school and treading the frightening mindfield of adulthood. A fresh-faced Bridges shines portraying the popular kid who conceals his insecurities behind a handsome face.

6. Tucker: The Man and His Dream (1988)

Automobile innovator and entrepreneur Preston Tucker was a man ahead of his time. His crusade to introduce the “car of tomorrow” to the masses before the Big Three automakers was met with opposition and accusations of fraud. Bridges presents Tucker as a determined soul undone by blind ambition. He’s the best thing in an otherwise ho-hum movie.

5. Starman (1984)

Bridges received a Best Actor Oscar nomination playing an alien lifeform that crash lands on Earth. His evolution from blue ball of energy to caring human being is a marvel to watch. Along with E.T., Starman sets itself apart from most alien sci-fi movies by showing the “visitors” to be peaceful, rather than malicious.

4. Crazy Heart (2009)

Bridges earned his first Oscar as “Bad” Blake, a fading former country music star who tries to shed his alcoholic, irresponsible ways after falling for a young journalist. He shows credible singing chops and transforms himself into a troubled but likable character worth rooting for.

3. Fearless (1993)

Perhaps his most underrated performance, Bridges plays a plane crash survivor who rejects his old life and views himself as immortal. His acting operates on an almost ethereal level. He’s so convincing it makes you want to scream ‘Wake up!” at the screen.

2. The Big Lebowski (1998)

His most recognizable and iconic role has him portraying a professional slacker named Jeff Lebowski, aka “The Dude,” who becomes embroiled in a strange case of mistaken identity. Not known for comedy, Bridges doesn’t miss a beat in a hilarious spin that gains more respect with each additional viewing.

1. The Fabulous Baker Boys (1989)

Bridges manages to juggle prick and pathos as a tormented, chain-smoking jazz pianist who withdraws into a cocoon of self-loathing instead of facing his demons. Michelle Pfeiffer earned most of the praise for her amazing turn as lonely singer Susie Diamond, but Bridges is brilliant as the complex Jack Baker.

I’ve always been an enormous Paul Rudd fan. Unlike a lot of comedic actors (Ahem. Steve Carell. Ahem), Rudd doesn’t have to deliberately act like an ass in order to be funny. He can elicit laughs with just a look, or roll of his eyes. His new movie, writer/director James L. Brooks’ How Do You Know, opens Friday. It looks interesting only because of Rudd’s involvement. But a love triangle plot with Reese Witherspoon and Owen Wilson sounds, uh, potentially awful.

In addition to my fondness of film, I’m also a pro football nerd. There’s no shortage of drama in the NFL especially when it comes to the love ‘em or loathe ‘em Dallas Cowboys. If you haven’t been following, their 2010 season has been a comedy of errors, filled with injuries, firings and unrealized expectations. I’m of the belief it would make an excellent big screen romp.

And who better to play the role of Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo than Rudd? Romo is a smug doofus who lands tons of hot chicks; he’s very hateable, but doesn’t lack charm. I envision Rudd nailing the part. Think Brian Fantana without the stache.

Rudd oozes douche, but in a good way. Hell, he’d probably go a long way in improving Romo’s image, which has never been particularly stellar. A Cowboys flick starring Rudd sounds like a smashing idea.

Director Darren Aronofsky’s highly anticipated thriller Black Swan opens today. If the early buzz is on point, it should be a leading contender at next year’s Oscars. I’ve purposely avoided most of the teasers, trailers and preview articles so as not to spoil the mystery. However, I’ve been privy to enough details to know it’s a flick worth seeing. Here are ten reasons why you should dip into your wallet to check out Black Swan.

10. That klepto Winona Ryder is in it – Remember when Winona was the “it girl” in Hollywood? I’ve done way too many drugs since then to recall myself, but at one time she was in everything and cute as a button. Now she’s pushing 40 and has been relegated to minor roles like playing Spock’s mommy in the Star Trek reboot. Still single, she recently declared she’s in the market for a husband. Maybe she can steal one from another woman.

9. Aronofsky’s films always look awesome – He’s only helmed four previous flicks, but each of them is a visual marvel. He knows where to place a camera and when to move it. If the early images are any indication, it appears he nailed the dark creepy atmosphere to perfection.

8. It’s about ballet – No, seriously. How many ballet plots have you seen on the big screen? I dig movies that explore worlds I know nothing about and I sure as sh*t know nada about ballet, except the lads and ladies have to wear tights and dance on their tippy toes.

7. Black swans are cool – The charcoal colored plumage. The scarlet red beak. The long, majestic neck. It’s a beautiful animal to behold, symbolizing guile and sensuality.

6. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis share a love scene – Call me superficial, but watching a couple smokin’ hot brunettes lock lips and roll around naked is bonerific. To be completely honest, I’d pay twice the price of admission to get a gander Nat and Mila go lesbian. Here’s hoping it’s not ruined with pesky body doubles.

5. Two words: Vincent Cassel – All you subtitle haters are probably unfamiliar with Cassel’s work. Too bad. The Paris-born thespian has been killin’ it since 1995′s La Haine. If you’re not squeamish, watch Irreversible and Sheitan to see Cassel at his very best. He’s also hitched to the gorgeous Monica Bellucci. Lucky guy.

4. It’s only 107 minutes – I dunno about you, but I’m getting perturbed by all these needlessly overlong movies. Bigger ain’t always better when it comes to run-time. The ability to tell a complete story in less than two hours seems to be a lost art.

3. It’s really weird – By all accounts, Black Swan is one strange trip. Cassel even compared it to the early films of David Cronenberg. Excellent. If you’re bored with all the cookie cutter choices at the multiplex, then this should be right in your wheelhouse.

2. Two words: Mila Kunis – My fingers are crossed this will catapult the very capable and very sexy Kunis into A-list territory. She’s done comedy and action, so I’m intrigued to discover how she handles drama.

1. Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis share a love scene – Did I mention this already? Well, it’s worth reiterating. Call me sleazy, but watching a couple raven-haired lovelies grope and fondle one another is erectastic.

It’s easy, and at times completely justifiable, to focus on the negative aspects of modern day cinema. Jennifer Aniston romantic comedies, overblown superhero flicks, pointless remakes and the fact that Rob Schneider is still allowed to work in Hollywood are all things worth lamenting. However, it’s Thanksgiving, so what better time to take a reprieve from the bashing and celebrate the good, rather than the bad, at the movies. As dedicated film lovers, here are ten things we should all be thankful for on the big screen.

10. Successful Franchises

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Batman, Harry Potter, Bourne Series, etc. It’s all golden when the perfect storm of writers, directors and actors come together to produce a well-executed mega franchise. Anyone can milk a cash cow, e.g. Twilight and Saw, but the ability to deliver a series of films that resonate is a true test of quality filmmaking.

9. Up and Coming Actresses

Natalie Portman, Emily Blunt, Ellen Page, Evan Rachel Wood, Carey Mulligan. The list is long and accomplished. In a male dominated industry, it’s nice to see such a talented group of actresses under 30 landing significant roles in excellent movies.

8. Pixar

Not all of Pixar’s offerings have been unforgettable, but when they hit the sweet spot it results in a grand slam home run. Up received a Best Picture nomination; WALL-E should’ve gotten one. The groundbreaking animation studio is responsible for some of the highest grossing and most entertaining films of all time.

7. Low Budget Gems

Films like The Hurt Locker and Precious both found audiences and recognition despite being produced for less than $20 million. In the era of 3D and caped crusaders, it’s nice to know smaller projects are still able to make some headway at the multiplex.

6. Robert Downey Jr.’s Resurgence

Actors like Downey don’t come along very often. He’s versatile, bold and seems to genuinely enjoy what he does. His comeback from alcohol/drug addiction saved his life and resurrected his career. Lots of guys could play Tony Stark and Sherlock Holmes, but few could match Downey’s panache.

5. The M. Night Shyamalan Backlash

Not that any more proof was needed, but The Last Airbender solidified M. Night’s reign as the most overrated filmmaker working today. Each chapter in the book of Shyamalan is more ridiculous than the last. Trashing him has become passé, but that doesn’t make it any less fun, or appropriate.

4. Leonardo DiCaprio

He chooses smart scripts and collaborates with great directors. He can carry a film at the box office and rarely delivers a false performance. One of these days the Academy will come to their senses and give him the Oscar he so rightfully deserves. Very few actors possess his skill-set.

3. Netflix Watch Instantly

It’s not the same as sitting in a surround sound digital theater, but the opportunity to “legally” download a new or old flick at the click of a mouse is an incredibly convenient and amazing advancement. Especially for those of us who enjoy writing about film.

2. Awful Nic Cage Movies

Nic’s recent resume is chock-full of ghastly goodness like The Wicker Man, Ghost Rider, Next, Knowing, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and the upcoming Drive Angry, which is in the running for worst title of the year (along with Love and Other Drugs). Cage has mastered the art of overacting in shamelessly terrible movies to such a degree that he warrants our undying admiration.

1. Christopher Nolan

A catalog that includes Memento, The Prestige, The Dark Knight and Inception puts Nolan in select company when it comes to original writer/directors who can do no wrong. Legit auteurs make films their way and ignore the nonsense from fanboys and critics. In a business that demands conformity, Christopher Nolan stands out for being uniquely his own.

The latest alien invasion flick invades theaters across the land today. It’s called Skyline, which is a ridiculously stupid title that sounds more appropriate for a line of luggage than it does a sci-fi blockbuster. However, it wasn’t the only name attached to the movie during pre-production. Before settling on Skyline, the creative brain trust considered several other monikers which may or may not have been worse than the one they went with. Here are ten of those rejected titles.

10. Independence Day 2

Too obvious and ultimately, illegal. Evidently ID4 filmmakers are deluded enough to believe a “real” sequel starring Will Smith will happen at some point. Good luck with that.

9. Not That Alien Invasion Movie, The Other One

Directors the Brothers Strause worked on visual effects for another alien invasion movie set in LA,  Battle: Los Angeles, while shooting Skyline. I’m no lawyer, but that sounds a bit fishy.

8. Holy Sh*t! Aliens Are Eating Us

Can’t all the species in the universe just get along? Wait, it’s Los Angeles. Never mind. I wasn’t thinking.

7. The Alien Invasion Movie With That Guy From Scrubs

Donald Faison. Funny guy. I can’t wait to see him kick some alien arse. Although it won’t be the same without J.D. at his side.

6. Toy Story 4

Everything Pixar touches turns into box office gold, so why not piggyback the summer heat of Toy Story 3 while it’s still sizzling? Looks great on paper, but again, totally illegal.

5. The Alien Invasion Movie Not From the Mind of M. Night Shyamalan

Remember Signs? The Skyline filmmakers sure as hell do. In order to distance themselves from the world’s most overrated writer/director, they almost went with this verbose title. It would’ve gotten my vote.

4. Vampire Aliens From Outer Space

In order to capitalize on the growing popularity of bloodsuckers, this seems like a no-brainer. It sounds awesome, but has too much of a B-movie feel to it.

3. The West Coast Cloverfield

More of a working title. Thankfully, the left coast alien invaders look a lot cooler than the idiotic praying mantis thing that trashed the Big Apple.

2. The Day the Earth Got Into a War of the Worlds

This only works if either Keanu Reeves or Tom Cruise is cast as the lead. Sorry, but Eric Balfour can’t hang with Neo and Maverick.

1. District 90210

Hands down, my favorite. It’s appealing to both the young male and young female demographics. It also screams alien invasion in Hollywood.

127 Hours, director Danny Boyle’s taut depiction of real life rock climber Aron Ralston’s harrowing tale of survival, opens today. By most accounts, the film and James Franco’s performance are being labeled among the best of 2010. There have been plenty of excellent flicks based on real life events produced throughout the years. Eliminating straight biopics like Capote and Ray, here are ten memorable movies inspired by or drawn from the drama of real life.

10. Eight Men Out (1988)

This detailed dramatization of the infamous 1919 Black Sox scandal that rocked America features a terrific cast and pinpoint direction by indie auteur John Sayles. It’s a fascinating exploration into the dark underbelly of professional baseball, and a sad statement about the lengths some will go to for money.

9. In Cold Blood (1967)

Based on famed author Truman Capote’s book of the same name, the film follows the events leading up to and after the Kansas murders committed by Perry Smith and Richard Hickock. The black and white cinematography is both beautiful and chilling. Robert Blake and Scott Wilson stand out playing the killers.

8. Into the Wild (2008)

In 1990, college graduate Christopher McCandless traded in a predictable existence to live in the Alaskan wilderness alone. His journey is one of self-discovery, enlightenment and tragedy. Emile Hirsch shines in the lead role and writer/director Sean Penn crafts a thought-provoking look at an unconventional life.

7. Midnight Express (1978)

Hash smuggler Billy Hayes’ five-year incarceration in a Turkish prison during the 1970s is told in unflinching fashion by director Alan Parker and writer Oliver Stone. Leaving aside some glaring embellishments, it’s a powerful story about one man’s fight for freedom.

6. Bully (2001)

A disturbing expose about the murder of a high school bully by a group of vengeful “friends.” Director Larry Clark pulls no punches in this portrayal of misguided youth and the intolerable cruelty people are capable of inflicting on one another. Nick Stahl impresses in the titular role.

5. The Amityville Horror (1979)

While the validity of what actually occurred in the house on 112 Ocean Avenue is open for debate, what isn’t is the creepy atmosphere created by director Stuart Rosenberg in this bleak documentation of the paranormal goings-on at the notorious Long Island address. It’s spooky good.

4. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)

A brilliant psychological examination into the mind of legendary outlaw Jesse James and the man who would eventually end his life, Robert Ford. Writer/director Andrew Dominik takes a modernist approach to the subject matter, eschewing normal Western conventions. Casey Affleck steals the movie playing Ford.

3. Serpico (1973)

Al Pacino delivers arguably his best performance as detective Frank Serpico, who exposed mass corruption in the NYC police department during the late ’60s and early ’70s. It’s one of the finest examples of pure crime drama ever made about one of the most intriguing historical figures of the last forty years.

2. Boys Don’t Cry (1999)

The engrossing story of transgendered man Brandon Teena, who was raped and murdered in 1993, earned Hilary Swank a Best Actress Oscar. Themes of identity, isolationism and intolerance are prevalent throughout, as are the unrealistic expectations of so-called romantic love.

1. All the President’s Men (1976)

This first-rate political thriller meticulously peels back the layers of the onion uncovered by neophyte investigative journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein during the Watergate scandal. Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman turn in outstanding performances, and director Alan J. Pakula expertly steers the serpentine plot to dark and mysterious places.

When you’ve seen as many horror movies as I have, you become very adept at separating the winners from the losers. It’s easy to spot classics and even easier to identify trash. While it might seem like the genre is chock-full of hackneyed offerings, there are just as many quality flicks floating below the radar that are worth a look. Just in time for Halloween, here are ten underrated horror films that should not be missed.

10. Diary of the Dead (2007)

Combining elements of Cloverfield and 28 Days Later, George Romero’s modern zombie apocalypse lacks the punch of his previous chapters, but the biting social commentary about humanity’s desire to destroy itself is still present. The documentary-style shooting adds tension, and the numerous scenes of gruesome death should satisfy die-hard fans of the genre.

9. Black Christmas (1974)

As far as ‘deranged psychopath murders sorority girls’ movies go, this is one of the very best. It’s not especially gory, but the creepy/disturbing vibe is off the charts. Hacking ‘n’ slashing is for amateurs; a real maniac knows how to freak his victims out with unnerving phone calls. The director, Bob Clark, also helmed Porky’s and A Christmas Story. Go figure.

8. Shiver (2008)

There’s something committing horrific murders in the woods surrounding a tiny Spanish village. Is it animal, human or something else? The plot is interesting and the scares legit. It plays more like a mystery than a straightforward horror movie, but there’s still a fair amount of blood and chills to please those who require that sorta stuff when viewing films of this ilk.

7. The Signal (2007)

This low budget sleeper is about a strange television transmission that renders all who hear it insane. It’s one part dark comedy, two parts love story and 100% bad to the bone. The gore and violence is through the roof, and like Romero’s work, there’s some meaty subtext about the downfall of society. Overall, it’s a solid little shocker perfect for a dark rainy night.

6. Don’t Look Now (1973)

It’s probably a stretch to call this underrated because it’s considered by most to be a righteous flick. That being said, I’m of the belief it’s deserving of much higher praise. Nicolas Roeg directs what amounts to a psychological torture chamber involving a dead little girl, a pair of weird sisters, a serial killer and a mysterious stranger dressed in a red raincoat. It’s bonkers, but in a good way.

5. Ginger Snaps (2000)

Most werewolf movies are about guys turning into hirsute creatures of the night. Not Ginger Snaps. It flips the script by placing a hot high school chick in the role of devil dog, and the results are wicked cool. There’s a clever metaphor comparing her transformation to puberty, but the real appeal are the buckets of blood and entrails that permeate the screen from start to finish.

4. Wendigo (2001)

This spooky chiller is set in a remote cabin in Upstate New York, which happens to be home to a mythical Indian beast called the Wendigo. There’s a definite Evil Dead feel to the story, what with the cabin locale and supernatural forces that dwell in the woods. It’s not entirely clear if the Wendigo is real or imagined, which adds a little zest to the otherwise standard plot.

3. Dog Soldiers (2002)

Another cabin in the woods. This time it’s a squad of rugged British soldiers waging war with a vicious family of giant lycanthropes. It’s taut, action-packed and kicks massive amounts of ass. I liken it a bit to Aliens, except on a much smaller scale. Watching a blood and guts Private box a seven-foot wolfman will do wonders for your Saturday night. See this beauty if you haven’t already.

2. Shock Waves (1977)

It doesn’t get much better than Nazi zombies from the deep. A boat runs aground on a tropical island inhabited by a crazy hermit. Mayhem ensues as a platoon of German super-soldiers emerge from the bowels of a wrecked ship to dispose of the new arrivals. It’s slow moving, but the premise is so outrageous it has to be seen to be believed. Added bonus: a young Brooke Adams in a yellow bikini.

1. Session 9 (2001)

I don’t find many horror films to be truly scary, but this one creeps me out every time I catch it. An asbestos clean up crew takes a job at an abandoned loony bin and all hell proceeds to break loose. Eerie isn’t a strong enough word to describe this terrifying tale. The ending will leave you unsettled for days. It’s an underrated flick by an underrated director, Brad Anderson.

]]> http://flicksided.com/2010/10/ten-underrated-horror-movies/feed/ 1 http://flicksided.com/2010/10/top-10-haunted-house-films-to-watch-this-halloween/ http://flicksided.com/2010/10/top-10-haunted-house-films-to-watch-this-halloween/#comments Thu, 28 Oct 2010 23:08:55 +0000 Mike Kujak http://flicksided.com/?p=12315

In honor of my favorite holiday of the year, here’s The Top 10 Haunted House Films. I know what you’re thinking. What a creative and unique list for the Halloween season. Nobody’s ever thought of writing this list up for this weekend! Seriously though, the only list that’s been done more this week is “Scariest Films of All Time”…which is laughably broad and pointless because of its subjectivity.

I also wanted to get a list of ten horror films that you should watch instead of Paranormal Activity 2 or Saw-3D this weekend. Watching horror films on Halloween isn’t about going to the theater and swallowing whatever producers think is the latest scare. Halloween is about cuddling up in the dark at the home, turning off the cell phones and watching something truly horrifying with friends.

All reviews are short, sweet and 100 words or less. No, I didn’t count Ghostbusters as a haunted house film. Yes, I look for any excuse to write about that movie. No, I don’t regret including it. Yes, it’s probably best if we just moved onto the list…

Enjoy.

10. The Amityville Horror (1979)

It might not be the most technically impressive film but it has other strengths that make it worthy of this list. It’s didn’t invent the haunted house but it’s certainly set the standard for creepy. I rarely go in Colonial Dutch houses anymore because of it. The house isn’t even really in bad condition. It just looks like it’s alive. It’s a very claustrophobic film because its characters are inside “the monster” the entire film. All they need to do is step outside and things usually get better. The original and remake are both safe bets for a creepy evening if that’s what you’re looking for.

9. The Grudge (2004)

Casper the Friendly Ghost got ghost children all wrong. They’re not friendly. They’re actually worse than regular ghosts. They can fit in small places and they’re innocence is transformed into some kind of pure evil that’s just terrifying. The plot is simple and effective. The children are mad as hell that they died and they’re not going to take it anymore. Sorry living people who occupy the house, your fucked. If you can get your hand on the Japanese original “Ju-on” it’s definitely got a bit stronger story but the American version is almost as effective.

8. The Changeling (1980)

Warning: Don’t confuse this with the Clint Eastwood movie. It’s a horrifying but depressing movie that has nothing to do ghosts or houses of an evil nature. This is the only film I had to revisit for the list. It really earns its scares and was an obvious influence for films like The Shining. I understand that it’s a mansion instead of house but I think we can group mansions, hotels and houses into the same list. The isolation is the important factor and this film has plenty. It’s the least popular film on the list and it’s worth a try if you’ve seen all the other bigger names on the list.

7. Beetle Juice (1988)

It’s the best Haunted House comedy out there if you’re looking for something lighter to watch. However it’s not the funniest. Most poorly-made supernatural scares are funnier to me than any intentional comedies (The Haunting remake comes to mind). The film is anchored by three great performances Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin and especially Michael Keaton, who really knows how to put on a show. They all know what kind of movie they’re in and it makes for a fun ride. In a weird way, Tim Burton even has some interesting commentary on life after death and how acceptance is essential.

6. The Haunting (1963)

This film is a victim to time and will seem very dated to today’s audience. However, it’s still essential to the genre of “they’ve bitten off more than they can chew” horror films. It’s a lot like an episode of GhostHunters gone wrong. And by wrong I simple mean, they’re actually are real ghosts in the house. The film also greatly grew my appreciation for the use of black and white. It’s used perfectly in this film and combined with that lethal dose of a creepy score it’ll still take you somewhere you don’t want to be if it’s dark enough outside.

5. The Others (2001)

The fear of what goes unseen is a powerful tool. Critics talk about it all the time and while it might seem like we’re always covering old ground. However,  there is a reason. The quick and easy scare films come out ever year. The buckets of blood and guts film are seen every year. Rarely, in the last decade have we gotten horror films with such control and knowledge of the genre. It owes most of its success to its classic influences like The Innocents, but still deserves credit for striving for something higher in a time when cheap thrills were almost universal in major Hollywood productions.

4. The Orphanage (2007)

Prediction: This will be labeled classic horror in the years to come. It’s a criminally underrated film (Admittedly, the phrase “criminally underrated” is criminally over-used) and I try to spread word of the film any chance I get. It’s the most beautiful haunted house film I’ve ever seen and Belén Rueda as Laura gives one of the best performances I’ve seen in a horror film in many years. It uses the creepy “child with the bag over his head” gag a bit too much but it’s done in the right ways so it doesn’t become bothersome. The film has several scenes that take you to that “It’s only a movie” place and achieves a kind of haunting presences that is scary in a poetic way.

3. Poltergeist (1986)

Where the fuck did this movie come from? It’s like the 80′s suburbia was somehow perfectly wrapped up in a ball, dipped in psycho juice and thrown at the audience. The film is filled with special effects that were groundbreaking then and laughable now. Luckily the film has a Spielberg touch that makes the film very watchable today. It’s a great look at childhood fears and probably is most accurately in portraying what a haunting would be like if they actually occurred. It’s a landmark for the haunted house genre and horror films in general. You’ve probably seen it but if you haven’t, pop in the VHS not the DVD. It just feels better.

2. The Shining (1980)

It’s not the most original or even the scariest haunted house film but after watching it, it’d be hard to argue that it isn’t one of the greatest haunted house films of all time. Kubrick does paranoia but than any director I’ve ever seen and you can’t really get a more interesting protagonist than Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance. Stephen King is the king of populist horror in the 20^th century and he deserves to have one of his horror novels adapted into a classic (even if he doesn’t like the direction Kubrick went).

1. The Innocents (1961)

I don’t believe in ghosts. I do, however, believe in them when watching this film. It’s exactly what I want when I go back and watch older films. A masterpiece of subtly. It doesn’t have scenes that make you jump out of your chair. It prefers to brand its scares in the back of your mind for days to come. When you close your eyes the next few nights this film is where your mind goes. Not a single honest modern haunted house film can deny it as an influence. The film in one word: Chilling. Your world is colder when watching this film.

What are your favorite haunted house films that I left out?

What are you watching this Halloween?

Paranormal Activity 2 starts today. Considering the original earned a tidy $193 million worldwide, I have no doubt there will be a third chapter next year and maybe even a fourth the year after that. Having seen both flicks, I still don’t get the appeal. Neither is scary or creepy or eerie in the least. They remind me of extended episodes of Syfy Channel’s series Ghost Hunters: interesting for about five minutes, silly for fifteen, then boring the rest of the way. In fact, the Paranormal movies barely register on my personal spooky scale. Here are ten things I find scarier.

10. White Persian Cats

So serene, yet so horrifying. Any creature with murderous eyes should not be trusted.

9. An M. Night Shyamalan Production

Devil was terrible, but it was far more watchable and chilling than either Paranormal installment.

8. Orange Peeps

Spongy and inedible. These sugary abominations give me the willies.

7. Midterm Elections

Tea Party Movement. Obamacrats. It’s a bloodbath out there. Stay away.

6. Boo-Berry Cereal

Even though the Boo-Berry ghost appears to be sh*tfaced and/or high, he’s still oddly frightening.

5. The Fat Albert Halloween Special

Mushmouth in a potato sack. Rudy dressed as a clown. It’s a freaky nightmare.

4. Giant Hamburgers

Abnormally sized food is downright creepy. Especially burgers.

3. Smartphones

Despite being totally awesome, any piece of technology you can’t live without should be feared.

2. Potato Chips With Faces

I once found a chip that was the spittin’ image of Tom Cruise. It was incredibly unnerving.

1. Glee

The overwhelming popularity of Glee terrifies me beyond all comprehension. I wish I was kidding.

]]> http://flicksided.com/2010/10/ten-things-scarier-than-the-paranormal-activity-movies/feed/ 0 http://flicksided.com/2010/10/looking-back-the-films-of-wes-craven/ http://flicksided.com/2010/10/looking-back-the-films-of-wes-craven/#comments Wed, 06 Oct 2010 21:56:41 +0000 Mike Kujak http://flicksided.com/?p=12153

“I think there is something about the American dream, the sort of Disneyesque dream, if you will, of the beautifully trimmed front lawn, the white picket fence, mom and dad and their happy children, God-fearing and doing good whenever they can, and the flip side of it, the kind of anger and the sense of outrage that comes from discovering that that’s not the truth of the matter, that gives American horror films, in some ways, kind of an additional rage.”

– Wes Craven

The rage Craven has fused in each of his projects is the key ingredient to his success. He’s one of the essential director’s during the golden age of horror. Those days are far behind us yet Craven is still making intriguing horror and thriller films. With the upcoming release of his newest project My Soul to Take, it was a good excuse to return to the glory days of the horror genre and review his essential films.

I’ve only reviewed films that he directed. His writing and production credits would be a much bigger project. Semi-significant films I left out/ didn’t have room for: Shocker (1982), The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988), Vampire in Brooklyn (1995), Cursed (2005) and New Nightmare (1994). I’ll try to do a post on this back catalog when Scream 4 comes out in 2011.

The Last House on the Left (1972)

Score: 7/10

The story begins with pair of innocent and unsuspecting teenage girls heading off to a concert. While trying to score mary-jane in the city, the girls are kidnapped by a gang of psychotic convicts. Craven starts in 70’s suburbia and ends in the darkest depths of violated humanity. It’s an extreme film and it will fuck with your mind (Much like Chainsaw Massacre). There’s a lot of groovy 70’s jams mixed with torture scenes of the girls. When the story isn’t following the dehumanization of two young girls its cross cutting with the wacky tales of police officers and parents. It’s an experiment by Craven to see how far he can push himself (maybe so that he can get noticed by the film business?). It’s traumatizing now, I can’t even imagine what this did to people in ’72. Sure, parts of Vietnam were being televised and horror must have been a common thing but LHOTL shows us that that greatest horror isn’t in war but the within humanity. Most importantly, it will also ruin your day. After viewing it’s recommended that you eat a big bowl of ice cream and watch a few episodes of Entourage or something else less challenging.

The Hills Have Eyes (1977)

Score: 5/10

You’ll have to be a pretty big horror geek to take something away from this film. Want to explore gruesome 70’s horror? Watch The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Want to see a movie where a family is attacked by violent savages? Watch the 2006 remake of the film. It’s unusual to recommend a remake over the original but honestly since both films are more interested in gross out scares then actual quality you might as well watch the version that’s faster paced with modern scare tactics. Actually I changed my mind. Just go and watch Texas Chainsaw again. Yes, the film is an important step in Craven’s career. Yes, the film has some influence on horror film history that it shouldn’t be denied. I’ll even admit that it reminded me of how much more effective small and low budget horror is when compared to big glossy studio pictures. However, there’s simply not enough here for a truly good genre film. Craven’s project has plenty of balls, but very little brains and even less heart.

Swamp Thing (1982)

Score: 6/10

Craven’s Swamp Thing is a very campy take on the dark and complex graphic novel. Alan Moore’s original Swamp Thing was one of the most horrifying and creepy superhero comics ever. The film is loosely based on the comic’s original plot. After a violent incident with a special chemical, a research scientist and all around swell guy Dr. Holland is turned into a swamp plant monster in desperate need of a hug. Damsels need to be saved and good needs to conquer evil. Its plot and acting make it hard to look back lovingly, but it’s also hard to dismiss it.  Swamp Thing is a lot of fun. It’s hard to tell if you’re laughing with the film or at the film. It’s cheap, dumb and fairly enjoyable for an 80’s B movie. The effects were bad during production and haven’t aged well. The original material is based off strong Sci-Fi and Craven’s sense of horror is fully developed so there’s no reason this couldn’t have been a better film. In a world where everything is being re-made and re-booted Swamp Thing actually deserves a remake more than any of the other Craven reboots. Overall, it’s acceptable but nothing that impressive.

Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Score: 9/10

This film is obviously Craven’s most significant contribution to cinema. In the dreams of his teenage victims (which includes a young Johnny Depp), a child murderer stalks the children of the members of the lynch mob that killed him. For the few minutes that the killer Freddy is on screen, played brilliantly by Robert Englund, he certainly leaves a big impression. Freddy’s got plenty of monster credibility but he’s also got the “that one creepy uncle” factor going for him. It makes a difference in a film that could have gone south very easily. It’s a genius premise that would be sodomized by endless sequels and reboots to follow. Craven’s dialogue is mediocre at best and his style is creepy in almost a laughable way but what saves the film is the inclusion of past influences and his ability to play with the audiences expectations. The concept of dreams is thought out and well executed, the psychological scares are well balanced with the jump scares and the twist at the end ensures that abstinence and a few crucifixes aren’t going to be enough to save you. It gave the Slasher genre a kick in the ass and kept it going for at least another decade.

The People Under the Stairs (1991)

Score: 8/10

The most underrated of Craven’s films, The People Under the Stairs is Home Alone meets…well meets Wes Craven. I’d never heard of the film before looking back at his career and it’s certainly the best new find of the films I watched. The film follows two adults and a juvenile burglar who break into a house occupied by a brother, sister and their stolen children. The brother and sister might as well be related to the mother from the Stephen King novel Carrie. The gang of thieves has a lot of trouble escaping from the house mostly because it’s built like a prison and has more booby traps than an episode of Scooby Doo. If it sounds a little silly that’s because it is. The film even has a TV movie feel to it. The childish tone is only off-putting when compared to Craven’s other work. If you look at it for what it is, a child adventure/mystery film, it’s much easier to swallow. Hovering over the entire project, is some interesting commentary in a film genre that is usually dominated by conservative values. Sure, the good guys are committing a crime when bad things start to happen to them but all of the films sympathies fall upon them when you consider the opposing side. Essential viewing if you really want to understand the versatility of Craven’s direction.

Scream 1-3 (1996-2000)

Score: 9/10

If you’ve seen all three Scream films then you know it’s not really appropriate to shove them all into the same review but to hell with it. The first is the best. It rejuvenated the Slasher flick for one last teenage carnage fueled ride (not sure if that’s an accomplishment?). If you’re really picky you might even say it’s the last horror masterpiece. The last 15 years haven’t been kind to the genre. The second is good as far as sequels go. They have enough material to work with and Craven’s direction is too strong to let the film get sloppy but I really don’t see anyone who isn’t a fairly big horror fan enjoying this one too much. Finally, the third film (shocker) is the worst. At this point it’s just about watching the kids get killed. Maybe it’s supposed to be. It’s served as an acceptable ending to the franchise until we found out that Scream 4 is to be released early in 2011. I’m assuming Craven has something new to say but if it bombs I’m screaming bull hunky and writing off all the sequels as officially unnecessary. That said, I’ll admit that sometimes I look back and miss those WB brain dead sex driven teens…

Red Eye (2005)

Score: 7/10

The key to a good thriller is simplicity. Sometimes this simplicity is mistaken for dumb and sometimes the film really is just lazy and cookie-cutter. This film is somewhere in-between. A beautiful woman is kidnapped by a handsome stranger on a not so routine flight. Threatened by the potential murder of her father, she is pulled into a du-du-dumb plot to assist her captor in offing a politician. The killer’s name is actually, I kid you not, Jackson Rippner. The title of that character alone is a declaration that everyone is here for some fun, not hard or challenging thrills. For the most part it succeeds. It’s fairly forgettable but wasn’t really made for multiple viewings anyway. It does the trick the first time around and has such a strong cast that you forgive if for most of its flaws. The cast includes Rachel McAdams, Cillian Murphy, Jayma Mays and the legendary Brian Cox. It’s reminiscent of old Hitchcock thrillers, which is good, but Craven is no Hitchcock.

Craven’s film My Soul to Take has a wide release starting Friday. Check back in to Flicksided soon for a review of the film.