Though technically the year isn't over and there are still a few more highlights on the horizon, including the upcoming HERETIC and NOSFERATU, but I thought I'd post a roundup of my faves so far in honor of Halloween that have been released in theaters this year. Since we have subscriptions to both Alamo and AMC, most of these were seen there, some more limited in screenings than others. Some of the things I was most looking forward to this year, like BEETLEJUICE, BEETLEJUICE or the remake of THE CROW, I wasn't all that thrilled by or skipped b/c of bad reviews) but these are the best among what I did manage to catch.
1. STOPMOTION
This one obviously involves some amazingly creepy animations, as well a slow and yet fast descent for its main character into the macabre.
2. LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL
Delightful with cheesy 70s pastiche and a horrifying storyline.I was surprised I loved so much since demonic possession films are not usually my favorite sub-genre.
3. MAXXINE
I've been waiting for this one since i fist heard it was coming back when I was writing for Game Rant. Set in seedy 80s LA, its a good topper for the trilogy with X and PEARL. Mia Goth is also one of my favorite new final girls.
4. THE SUBSTANCE
This movie....I don't quite know what to say except you have to see it for yourself. Gore soaked, out of control, delightfully unraveling, and every second more shocking than the next overlaid with commentary on the beauty and youth industry.
5. BLINK TWICE
This may be my favorite from the year and not at all what I was expecting when I went into the theater. It also had one of those most terrifying reveals followed by a terribly satisfying ending for a psychological thriller / horror film. It's one of only two we went back to see a second time (the other was THE SUBSTANCE above.)
6. LONGLEGS
The very creepiest Nicholas Cage outdoes himself in this strange tale of an FBI agent trying to solve a string of inexplicable murders while being stalked by the person responsible.
7. SPEAK NO EVIL
I hated the Norwegian version of this passionately, but warmed immediately to this one, which had a much more satisfying ending amid slowly building horror and weirdness of unfamiliar people and places.
8. LISA FRANKENSTEIN
A nostalgic romp with the tale girl that brings a dead boy back to life filled with 80s music, decor, and fashion. What's not to love?
9. CUCKOO
Set in the beautiful Alps, this one seems like its too pretty to have such horror lurking underneath, but all sorts of weirdness and scientific experimentation prevail.
10. STRANGE DARLING
More of a thriller than horror, but there was lots of blood. This one is told wonderfully out of order, resulting in a glorious disorientation that only makes it better.
