A highly effective horror classic!

Rating: 10/10 (9 December 2004)

Definitely one of the top ten best horror films ever made, John Carpenter's "Halloween" stands as a landmark in film-making. It has defined an entire genre (with some help from Bob Clark's lesser known "Black Christmas"), inspiring scores of imitations and cheap knock off's over the years -- none of which have been able to re capture the genius behind the original film. John Carpenter knows what scares audiences. By tapping into the common childhood fear of the boogeyman he created the character of Michael Myers -- an inhuman human completely devoid of sympathy or sense of conscience. AND, without any clear motive for his brutality he becomes all the more menacing. Considering the extremely low budget for the film - a modest $300,000, it's clearly evident that Carpenter was/is a talented and visionary director (most evident in his earlier works). With his commanding use of cinemascope carefully framing each scene, and the stark yet atmospheric cinematography, he creates a brilliant and thrilling visual experience. Add in the unnerving score (brilliantly composed by Carpenter himself) and believable performances from Jamie Lee Curtis, Nancy Loomis, and Donald Pleasance - and the result is a genuine horror classic. Not to be missed, a definite 10/10! **Halloween was originally planned as a loosely based sequel to Black Christmas. If you haven't seen it, check it out -- it's recommended viewing to those interested in early 70's slasher flicks. OR, anyone in general looking for a good fright**