Still feels original...even 40 years later

Rating: 8/10 (21 October 2018)

Before the 10 follow-on entries in John Carpenter's classic slasher series there was the original low-budget 1978 film. Few films in the horror genre have had the impact that 'Halloween' has had - one that has transcended generations and is respected as something that is simple-yet-effective in offering up scares without needing to resort to obnoxious, in-your-face gore.
It was 'Halloween' that launched the career of Jamie Lee Curtis, whose portrayal of innocent high school babysitter Laurie Strode was etched in cinematic history thanks in large part to her screaming ability and authenticity she brought to the role. The late 1970s was a period when this type of film really did not exist, so audiences were captured by everything from the chills-inducing opening score to the well done jumpscares (before they became cliched) and of course, Michael Myers. Donald Pleasence's Dr. Loomis is also a character who became synonymous with the Halloween holiday - the duo of Curtis and Pleasence is one that will likely stand the test of time.
It may seem old, cheap and unsophisticated in this day and age of souped up, over stylized horror films, but the original 'Halloween' is a film that will forever be one that is credited with setting up the modern day horror film.