THE perfect horror film

Rating: 10/10 (11 March 2004)

Absolutely one of the best horror films ever.
In 1963, on Halloween night, 6 year old Michael Myers brutally stabs his sister to death. 15 years later, to the day, Michael has escaped from his lunatic asylum and proceeds to wreck more havoc in the peaceful community of Haddonfield, Illinois.
A masterpiece of horror film-making. Granted, today's audience might not appreciate the film for all it's worth, but in 1978 this was groundbreaking stuff and set the tone for future horror films.
John Carpenter's masterful horror film has yet to be surpassed in many respects. It's the level of craftsmanship that is so effectively on display here. Working on a shoestring budget, Carpenter went as far as to paint the leaves on trees to give the film the appropriate look. The music he made himself (the least costly choice, he said), and it's one of the most instantly recocnizable movie scores ever. The music plays a big part in the film's atmosphere. In fact, the music basically creates the film's mood. Sounds a bit like a combination between Goblin's scores for Dario Argento's Profondo Rosso and Suspiria, it's one of the film's best assets. Dean Cundey's cinematography is nothing short of superb, the film's opening scene alone is worth noting. Lighting is brilliant, an often copied scene near the end (you'll know which one) is yet another indicator of the talent behind the film.
Carpenter's ability to create and sustain suspense has never been showcased better than here. It's tension filled grip on viewers begins from minute one and doesn't let up until the end credits roll (and not even then, it stays with you afterwards). A lot of thought went into creating the boogey man and Michael Myers is the perfect embodiment of what would scare us to death. An emotionless, nearly robotic force of evil that kills without remorse and seems to live for only that. The Shape is his official name, aptly titled given his mask, appropriately indicating his soulless nature.
Acting performances are generally good. Donald Pleasence is perfect as Dr. Loomis, Michael's main nemesis. Jamie Lee Curtis is very good as Laurie, Michael's main target. Charles Cyphers gives a good supporting performance as the town's sheriff. Other actors aren't as good, but not distractingly bad either.
People who say horror movies aren't very good should check this one out and try to argue their case.
10 out of 10.