Archive for Classics

« Older Entries

Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark review

Posted in Classic Horror, Ghost Stories, Haunted House Films, Supernatural Horror with tags , , , , , , , , , , on June 16, 2013 by Alex Roy

DontBeAfraidoftheDark
Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (1973)

Tagline:Can you see them, Sally … hiding in the shadows. They’re alive, Sally. They want you to be one of them when the lights go out.

Directed by:
John Newland

Produced by:
Allen S. Epstein

Run Time:
74 minutes

Released:
October 10, 1973

Review:

Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark is one of the finest haunted house films in the genre. For a made for TV affair, this is a fine example of using atmosphere to create tension on-screen. The cast here is wonderful, and for its short run time, the film is truly an impressive piece of cinema that though might seem a bit dated, is still a terrifying horror experience that will delight genre fans looking for a well crafted haunted house horror tale. This is one of those rare films that actually can terrify a viewer and is among the finest pictures in the genre. With a great performance by Kim Darby, this made for TV film is one of those forgotten classics that deserves to be rediscovered by a wider audience. The tense atmosphere adds to the film enjoyment and it serves up bone chilling terror the way a horror film is supposed to. The supernatural elements here work well to keep you on the edge of your seat, and the great performances from its cast elevate this film significantly. If you love haunted house films, then seek this one out as this is among the classics that defined the genre. The film’s story is very interesting and well layered to create a unique experience. Haunted house films are often hard to pull off, but director John Newland crafts a fine picture that is chilling from start to finish. With a clear understanding of pulling off effective terror, Newland delivers a supernatural tour de force that ranks up there with some of the finest horror films ever made.

Final Rating:
9/10

2 Comments »

The Vampire Lovers review

Posted in Hammer Horror, Vampire films with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on May 6, 2013 by Alex Roy

the-vampire-lovers-movie-poster-1970-1020170500

The Vampire Lovers (1970)

Tagline:If you dare… taste the deadly passion of the BLOOD-NYMPHS

Directed by:
Roy Ward Baker

Produced by:
Michael Style
Harry Fine

Run Time:
91 minutes

Review:

The Vampire Lovers is an underrated vampire yarn that is well acted and directed. The film owes its success to its atmosphere, which adds so much to the tone of the film. Director Roy Ward Baker has picked a fine cast of talented actors, including Hammer horror icon Peter Cushing, who gives a standout performance. Ingrid Pitt is wonderful as well, and this film will certainly give genre fans something worthwhile to watch. Although not perfect, this is a vampire film the wait it is meant to be. The story is quite good, and well layered, and like I said, the film is underrated and it doesn’t deserve the flack it has received. There are enough tense, atmospheric scenes throughout the film that will certainly keep you on the edge of your seat. This is a fine film that is worth checking out and Hamer horror enthusiasts should seek this one out as it is an overlooked film that hasn’t gotten the recognition it deserves. This is among the best vampire films in the genre, and it belongs on the short list of must see vampire licks. The tone and atmosphere of the film sets this one apart from others, and there is a constant feeling of dread on-screen, and it adds so much to the film. Add to that menacing performance of Pitts and you have a highly entertaining horror film that has enough chills to appeal to genre fans. This is a surprising film that relies on a good story, effective visuals to create the chills on-screen. Roy Ward Baker crafts something unique here, and I think this title has been overlooked and it really deserves a second chance. This is horror in its basic form, and it uses it to its advantage to create something entertaining and bone chilling all at once. This is what horror is supposed to be and if you’re looking for a good vampire film that delivers terror, then give this one a shot. There is romantic overtones throughout the film and it sets this film apart from others in the  genre. The Vampire Lovers adds sensuality to its imagery, and it creates something riveting and ultimately exquisite in the process.

Final Rating:
7/10

Leave A Comment »

The Blob review

Posted in Classic Monsters, Sci Fi Horror with tags , , , , , , , , , , on December 11, 2012 by Alex Roy

blob

The Blob (1958)

Tagline: Indescribable… indestructible! Nothing can stop it!

Directed by:
Irvin Yeaworth

Produced by:
Jack H. Harris

Run Time:
86 Minutes

Released:
September 12, 1958

Review:

The Blob is yet another terrific 1950′s Sci Fi monster flick that is among the best in the genre. This is a genre classic that is a memorable and fun film to watch like all the classic monster pictures of the period. Starring Steve McQueen that made him a star. This is an entertaining film from start to finish. This is a film that has bad-looking special effects as the blob grows bigger as it eats an entire town. With that being said, that’s what makes this such an entertaining ride. A simple plot, good acting and hilarious effects, it adds up to a great entertainment hour and a half of fun as you see this abomination terrorize a town. This is a memorable addition to the genre and ranks up there as one of the best classics in the horror genre. A very enjoyable and fun ride throughout, this film is never dull or boring. If you want to enjoy a mindless monster flick, and then check this one out, it is definitely worth your time and with a great cast, it is sure to appeal to any viewer looking for a mindless horror classic to watch. The 1950′s were affine time for horror films, and there was a resurgence in a good old-fashioned monster film. The Blob ranks along with Frankenstein, The Mummy, Them!, Frankenstein and the Creature from the Black Lagoon as one of the finest monster movies ever made and if you love the cheesy effects, simplistic plots and lots of monster carnage, then don’t pass up on this one, it is worth seeing.

Final Rating:
8/10

Leave A Comment »

Psycho review

Posted in Classic Horror, Psycho Horror, Psycho Series, Psychological Horror, Thrillers with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on November 29, 2012 by Alex Roy

Psycho (1960)

Tagline: A new- and different scream excitement!!!

Directed by:
Alfred Hitchcock

Produced by:
Alfred Hitchcock

Run time:
113 minutes

Released:
June 16, 1960

Review:

In 1960 Alfred Hitchcock created one of the most enduring horror films in the history of cinema. This is a film that influenced a generation of filmmakers and spawned an entire new genre of horror, the Slasher film. What keeps you involved in the film, what keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish is the lead performance of Anthony Perkins as the tormented psychopathic motel manager Norman Bates. Norman Bates is one of the most iconic horror villains in the genre and cinema in general. Mother of Jamie Lee Curtis, Janet Leigh plays Bates’ victim Marion Crane with flair, and it’s very easy to place her in the best scream queen list along with her daughter. The combination of horror packed into a thriller is immaculate, brilliant. Alfred Hitchcock hones his craft perfectly with this chiller, and the tone and atmosphere along with the timeless Shower scene is what makes this picture truly unforgettable. The acting is terrific, flawless and chilling. Anthony Perkins is absolutely bone chilling in the lead role, and his silent, kind nature adds to his disturbing, psychotic mental instability, and it makes this film stand out. Psycho remains a fresh experience every time you watch it and kit never gets old. The shocks, horror and tension are always there, and it’s what keeps you riveted from the first frame onwards. This film is a must see for cinema and horror buffs alike, and there’s many aspects of the film that will terrify you in some ways , but with effective storytelling, great performances and wonderful directing, Psycho is a landmark picture, one that set the standards for shocks and genuine terror for many years to come. After seeing this, you’ll most likely think twice about taking a shower in a motel room in the middle of nowhere again. This is a work of genius, and one that no viewer should pass up.

Final Rating:
10/10

Leave A Comment »

Dracula review

Posted in Classic Horror, Classic Monsters, Vampire films with tags , , , , , on October 24, 2012 by Alex Roy

Dracula (1931)

Tagline: A nightmare of horror!

Directed by:
Tod Browning
Karl Freund

Produced by:
Tod Browning
Carl Laemmle, Jr.

Run time:
75 minutes

Released:
February 12, 1931

Review:

Dracula released in 1931 is probably the most famous version of Bram Stoker’s classic work ever put on-screen. This is a brilliant piece of cinema in the early year’s of the silver screen. Universal cemented itself as a leader in the horror genre, and released many classic films that set the standards for many years to come. Dracula made Bela Lugosi a star and ultimately a horror icon of the classic era of film. Although often overshadowed by Boris Karloff, his performance here definitely is a much more in-depth performance, as Lugosi brings charisma to the title character that Karloff didn’t seem to have. I’m not saying that one is better than the other, all I’m saying is that Lugosi had a bit more screen presence and on-screen demeanor due to his larger speaking role. The film itself has a strong sense of atmosphere, which is key to build effective chills and suspense. This a flawless horror picture that stands out even today because the idea is simple, yet due to Lugosi you are just captivated and mesmerized by his performance. There has been countless films based on Dracula, however this version along with Francis Ford Coppola’s 1992 film really stand out because they bring a great cast to tell the Bram Stoker classic which have made vampires such an integral part of the horror genre. Bela Lugosi is wonderful here and his hypnotic performance is among the greatest ever filmed. Dracula remains one of the best vampire films, and its influence on the genre is still apparent today. A definite must see for horror fans.

Final Rating:
10/10

Leave A Comment »

Them! review

Posted in Classic Horror, Classic Monsters, Sci Fi Horror with tags , , , , , , , , , on October 7, 2012 by Alex Roy

Them! (1954)

Tagline: A horror horde of crawl-and-crush giants clawing out of the earth from mile-deep catacombs!

Directed by:
Gordon Douglas

Produced by:
David Weisbart

Run time:
94 minutes

Released:
June 19, 1954

Review:

Them! Is one of the classic horror films of the 50′s. Films like this are a must see for horror fans everywhere as this is a flawless monster film that has a lot to offer to the genre. In the 50 ‘s  there were countless monster flicks that came out, and all of them brought something unique to the table. These films make look dated by today’s standards, but man are they fun. The over the top story is what makes this picture so good. I mean killer giant ants, just what a cool concept for a film. Gordon Douglas is a great director and he directs a strong cast here that all bring something to the screen. The plot keeps you entertained from start to finish. This is the perfect film to watch if you love monster movies. Classic Sci Fi horror doesn’t get any better than this. I really enjoyed this film, and the sheer originality of the movie’s concept is what makes this one such a timeless classic. Them! Is a perfect film to watch during the Halloween season, and it definitely delivers something that horror fans will certainly cherish. Nowadays they don’t make films like this anymore and despite its cheesy looking special effects, this film still stands the test of time because of its cast, well written script and the sheer entertainment value it offers the viewer. This is among the best monster flicks that I’ve seen, and like others in the era, it has stood the test of time as a terrific, original and highly entertaining nearly sixty years after it was released.

Final Rating:
10/10

Leave A Comment »

Rosemary’s Baby review

Posted in Bowels of Hell, Classic Horror with tags , , on March 25, 2012 by Alex Roy

Rosemary’s Baby (1968)

Tagline: Pray for Rosemary’s Baby

Directed by:
Roman Polanski

Produced by:
William Castle

Run Time:
136 Minutes

Released:
June 12, 1968

Review:

Rosemary’s Baby is one of most memorable horror classics ever filmed. Roman Polanski’s film is the film responsible for many of the films dealing with the devil, most notably The Exorcist and The Omen.  The first time I watched this film, I thought it was overhyped. I didn’t understand why this film had gotten the praise it received .  I needed to watch this film a second time to make a more definitive opinion on this film. Watching this a second time around I loved it a lot more, and thought it deserved the classic status it has received. This is a must watch for every serious horror fan. This is a film that delivers the chills that is expected. Rosemary’s Baby is a powerful  horror film that truly redefined the genre. The film has a terrific cast, and amazing story. The mood is tense, and atmospheric, almost surrealistic. There are only hints that there’s an evil presence lurking in Rosemary’s shadow, and you feel uneasy when the horror starts. This film may not appeal to everyone, but if you loved The Exorcist and The Omen, give this one a look. Roman Polanski has crafted a great film, and with a second viewing, I thought it was a definite classic of horror. Some may find this one a tad too long, but the payoff is worth it. I think that Rosemary’s Baby is one of those films that you need to give at least a few viewings to really enjoy. Rosemary’s Baby took a few viewings for me to really get into. What makes this film such a classic of horror is the strong elements of tense atmosphere to a memorable climax, something that is missing from today’s horror films.

Final Rating:
8/10

1 Comment »

The Invisible Man Returns review

Posted in Classic Horror with tags , , , on October 20, 2011 by Alex Roy

The Invisible Man Returns (1940)

Directed by:
Joe May

Run Time:
81 Minutes

Released:
January 12, 1940

Review:

The Invisible Man Returns is a strong follow-up to The Invisible Man. The film is also the best sequel to the original horror classic. Starring Vincent Price as Geoffrey Radcliffe. This is the best sequel of the series, and I thought it was a terrific, well constructed horror film. This film is wonderful because of the acting that Vincent Price displays on-screen. The film boasts stunning special effects, just like the other films. Except, this film has a lot more substance to its material. Vincent Price handles his role very well, and he definitely displays his talents as an actor here. I thought that the story was the best since the original, and it is the only sequel has a tense atmosphere. The Invisible Mann Returns is a tale revenge and romance mixed with horror of course. The film is entertaining, and the cast do a great job in their roles. The Invisible Man Returns is a good entry and is quite entertaining. If you’ve enjoyed this film, you’ll most likely enjoy this sequel. As far as sequels are concerned, The Invisible Man Returns is a good enough sequel, and has a good plot with great special effects and of course the talent of its lead, Vincent Price. I enjoyed this film, and thought it had a great mix of everything that makes a good sequel. The plot is good, and the actors really deliver something special here. This is the best sequel in the series as it’s more serious than the other films that came after it. The only sequel that comes close is The Invisible Man’s Revenge.

Final Rating:
8/10

Leave A Comment »

The Invisible Agent Review

Posted in Classic Horror with tags , , on October 20, 2011 by Alex Roy

The Invisible Agent (1942)

Directed by:
Edwin L. Marin

Written by:
Curtis Siodmak

Run Time:
81 Minutes

Released:
July 31, 1942

Review:

Fourth entry in The Invisible Man series is a semi decent horror adventure with bits of comedy thrown in. The film had a great idea, but I felt it lacked the real fire that the plot suggested. I mean, really the plot was interesting, creative and interesting. However the film ends up feeling somewhat silly, and the finished film lacks somewhat to really make it good. The film is a decent entry in the series, but it never becomes anything better than it is. The ideas were fantastic for this film, however the execution feels a tad poor and it wasn’t really a fulfilling experience. Considering the plot direction, the film could have been a lot less silly and considering how the film starts out, it’s surprising that the film has more gags going on on-screen. I liked the film, but as much as I’d wanted to. It’s too bad because the story had the potential to be excellent, but really it leaves a lot to be desired. The film had plenty of things that could have been improved upon such as the attempt at humor. The film is and entertaining, but it lacks as well. The film had the potential in being something very good, but it’s only somewhat decent. The film is decent, and entertaining, but in the end it leaves unsatisfied with the finished film. Considering such a unique plot, this could have been one of the best of the series. Though not perfect, this is still entertaining, but you’ll notice that it could have been done much better.

Final Rating:
5/10

Leave A Comment »

Black Sabbath (I tre volti della paura) review

Posted in Classic Horror, Horror Anthologies, Italian Horror with tags , , , , , , , on October 15, 2011 by Alex Roy

Black Sabbath (1963)

Tagline: …The most gruesome day in the calendar of the Undead!

Directed by:
Mario Bava

Produced by:
Salvatore Billiterri
Paolo Mercuri

Run Time:
92 Minutes

Released:
November 17, 1963

Review:

Mario Bava’s Black Sabbath is a definite horror classic. This horror film is an anthology with three terrific, horrifying stories. Brilliantly directed with a good dose of atmospheric dread for each story, and narrated by legendary horror icon, Boris Karloff; Black Sabbath is an effectively chilling horror anthology and is one of the best horror anthologies that I have seen in quite some time. Black Sabbath has got three stories that will terrify you. Each story is brilliantly acted and leaves you in a state of dread. My personal favorite of the three stories is the third one, “The drop of water”; I thought that was the most chilling of all. A woman is haunted by the vengeful ghost of a dead medium after she steals a sapphire ring from her finger. The moments of that story are chilling and are some of the most terrifying in the horror genre. Mario Bava has made one of the best anthologies with Black Sabbath and this is a must see classic for horror fans. The stories are chilling, and they definitely build up good tension and a feeling of dread in the viewer. This is a terrific horror film and I consider one of the key Italian horror films. This is a well constructed horror film, one that is chilling and memorable. The film is brilliantly acted and directed and the stories are terrifying and original. As far as horror anthologies are concerned, Black Sabbath is by far one of the best that has ever been filmed. If you haven’t seen this classic, then you should head to your local video store and rent it, you’ll be in for one terrifying night of eerie and bone chilling stories.

Final Rating:
9/10

Leave A Comment »

« Older Entries
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 35 other followers