For this installment of Halloween movie month, I’ve included a short reminder of my picture rating system. A full explanation was included the first week.

Characters                                Artistry                               Inclusion

   Scare Factor                              Ending

1. Red State

There are so many things I loved about this film: the script, the acting, the juxtaposition of different organizations, and the fact that the hostages were men instead of women. John Goodman is worth watching this all on his own. The ending lingered with me.

         

2. Gaslight

This film is the origin of the slang term gaslighting, when someone convinces someone else that they’re crazy. So thrilling! I enjoyed watching Bergman struggle against her antagonist.

        

3. Maniac

With its use of first person point-of-view, this film includes you whether you want it or not. Elijah Wood delivers a despicable and empathetic performance of a troubled serial killer. While grotesque at times, this film captures the terror of being trapped inside your own psychosis.

         

4. Paranormal Activity 3

I’m not a fan of this franchise, because the found footage is so implausible, but the suspense gets to me all the same. The use of realistic homes also adds to the scare.

          

Substitutions: The Blair Witch Project, The Conspiracy, As Above/So Below

What have you been watching?