For Fright Night

I have always loved Halloween. It wasn't just the bags of free candy that had my attention, it was the the spooky stories and cool costumes. When I was too old for trick or treating, I turned to decorating the house, and scaring the coco puffs out of the neighborhood kids.

We had to tone back the decorating a little since my son came along- we are in "cute scary" mode these days. Nothing too threatening. But I still need my dose of the scary stuff. Don and I usually rent a few horror flicks, grab some food which would terrify a cardiologist, turn off all the lights in the house and head for the couch. Last night that is just what we did.

Note, I said horror films. That is not the same as a slasher flick. I can't watch slasher flicks, and not because I am afraid of them, but because I can't stand all the gore and I am not a fan of ripping flesh sounds.

I like films that mess with my head a little bit; leave a little something for the subconscious to play with later on. I thought I would share a few of my favourites- perhaps you are planning a little fright night of your own.

Paranormal Activity: This was last night's choice. For the first 15 minutes I hated it. I didn't like the characters, didn't like the sound, the script, the lack of camera shot variety...and then I was sucked in a little. I became more curious than annoyed. Curiosity gives way to a constant state of nervousness and claustrophobic tension. The film has a serious creep factor- a lot of what happens you don't ever see. Just glimpses. Just tidbits for the brain to fill in for you. I spent most of last night awake, listening to every little creak and groan the house could produce, and staring at the door.

'The Silence of the Lambs' : This is the quintessential thriller. Anthony Hopkins performance is almost hypnotic. His quiet, understated, and unblinking turn as the evil Hannibal Lector has never been equaled. Jodie Foster was also perfectly cast. I still remember the moment I realized Hannibal was not actually on the run- that he was literally under their noses. My stomach made an unsettling lurch and I actually groaned out loud in the theater.

'The Exorcist' I know that a lot of people these days, especially people younger than me, do not find this movie scary. I know this- but I do not understand it. How can you not find the complete and utter destruction of innocent and sweet little Regean horrific and disturbing? Just look at her face people! The voice! The backward walk down the stairs! I think if you were raised Catholic this film has a few special tricks there just for you- it really gets into your head, and it stays there.

Låt den Rätte Komma In (Let the Right One In): It is subtitled film, and I do admit it starts off slow. But it has this sad, brooding atmosphere which settles into your bones like a cold winters night. Leaving you feeling chilled and exposed.

So those a just a few of my favourites. Do you have any you would like to share? Tell me, I am waiting here...in the dark.