THE BIRD (9 STARS OUT OF 10)
by: Sara Novoa 10B
NOSFERATU (10 STARS OUT OF 10)
by: Sara Novoa 10B
This is one of the first horror movies of all times, and presumably one of the best too, being highly influential for its modern predecessors. “Nosferatu the Vampire” was the second film adaptation of Bram Stroker’s “Dracula”. This silent film centers around the tale of the mysterious Count Orlok (Max Schreck) who summons Thomas Hutter (Gustav von Wangenheim) into his Transylvanian castle. Orlok wants to buy a house near Hutter and his wife, Ellen (Greta Schroeder). After Orlok reveals his vampire nature, Hutter struggles to escape the castle, knowing that Ellen is in great danger.
Even though Max Shreck´s looks in this movie are terrifying, it is still an aesthetic masterpiece; every cinematic square is beautiful and manages to express so much, sometimes even more than one hour of some of nowadays movies. Nosferatu´s eerie, gothic feel, combined with Max´s chilling performance (among other elements) makes this a great example of what a horror movie should contain. The sensation Nosferatu carries is beyond words, and when you watch it I assure you will understand what I´m talking about. It´s like traveling through time, a fun way in which you can disconnect from reality for a second and immerse yourself into the world of the uncanny vampire.
Watch this movie if you really want to achieve the perfect vibe for Halloween night. I personally think you’ll have a better experience if you watch it alone with all the lights off, yet watching it with others is also enjoyable, and great if you aren´t such a big fan of horror flicks.
THE CONJURING (9 STARS OUT OF 10)
by: Sara Novoa 10B
Set in 1970, two paranormal investigators and demonologists Lorraine (Vera Farmiga) and Ed (Patrick Wilson) Warren assist to the house of Carolyn (Lili Taylor) and Roger (Ron Livingston) Perron. The Perrons and their five daughters have recently moved into a secluded farmhouse invaded by a supernatural force. Though the manifestations are relatively mild at first, events soon escalate in horrifying fashion, especially after the Warrens discover the house's macabre history.
I wasn´t expecting much from this movie, but when I watched it, I left the cinema with my expectations being more that fulfilled. I really enjoyed it, even if it haunted me for a while. The well-crafted film is a fresh look to the overly-exploited theme of exorcisms, possessions and haunted house themes. It was something that I’ve never seen before, but still reminded me of 80’s and 70’s horror flicks.
This movie, inspired by the real story of the Warrens, not only proves that good horror movies can be made at present time, but also finds a place on many horror fans lists of their favorites, “The Conjuring” really resounded with the audience. Balancing thrills, a chilling story, and great performances all around, this film stands out among the endless films in this genre nowadays.
You probably have seen this one already, but if you haven´t, don´t miss the opportunity to watch quality content coming from the modern horror genre. It´s perfect to start a scary movie marathon, or even end it, but before you go ahead and watch it I'm going to warn you, you are not going to forget this film, especially at nights before you sleep.
This 1963 movie directed and produced by one of my absolute favorite film directors of all time, Alfred Hitchcock, is a horror classic film. Inspired by a book with the same name, this movie displays the suspenseful story of Melanie Daniels (Tippi Hedren), who meets Mitch Brenner (Rod Taylor) in a San Francisco pet store and decides to follow him home. She brings with her the gift of two love birds and then strikes up a romance afterwards. Suddenly, the birds start attacking children at Mitch's sister’s party. A huge assault starts in the town by attacking birds.
I know what you may be thinking “What´s so scary about birds?” I can just tell you’ll have to watch this movie to believe how terrifying it is. Many people end up being scared of birds after watching this movie (myself included). It´s just amazing how Hitchcock is able to transmit such frightening feelings through his film, making the viewer scared of something so inevitable and common, birds.
Hitchcock, or as he is commonly referred as, “the master of suspense”, creates a clear storyline with engaging and relatable characters and scenes that will leave you on the edge of your seat. As always, he includes a perfect soundtrack that does nothing but add to the effect the movie is looking for. Nevertheless, there´s something that I didn’t like from this film, and that is that it didn´t age as gracefully as other of Hitchcock’s movies, like “Vertigo” or “Psycho”. When you watch it you will momentarily find yourself laughing at the sometimes silly-looking special effects and situations, which were appropriate for the time of its release, but now takes away some of the beauty of the movie.
I definitely recommend this film, it´s perfect for a Halloween vintage movie night with your friends, family or even boyfriend or girlfriend. I´m almost sure you will love it. It will give you a satisfying break from all the gory, oversaturated horror movies of nowadays, and a true sense of fright.
