Growing up in Pittsburgh we believed in three things, Iron City Beer, our local sports teams, and the films of George A. Romero, the director who brought us such horror classics “Night of the Living Dead” and “The Crazies.” His films were my first real influence as I ventured out into the world as a young filmmaker, and so bone chilling horrors have always held a special place in my heart. It is with that affection, that I give you my annual Halloween movie list.

• “Night of the Living Dead” (1968) This black and white horror classic marked Romero’s directorial debut.  Co-written by famed novelist John A. Russo, the film features a bunch of actors you’ve probably never heard of including Duane Jones, Judith O’ Dea, Karl Hardman, and Keith Wayne.
• “Halloween” (1978) This one makes my list for a number of reasons, but the title alone should place it high up there on any Halloween movie list. This blood curdling masterpiece from John Carpenter gave the world Michael Myers and all of the sequels and remakes that have come along with him. It also marks the feature film debut of Jamie Lee Curtis and the showcases the talents of horror veteran Donald Pleasence.
• “Child’s Play” (1988) This one made everyone on my block afraid to play with dolls, and what can I say, without it we would never have had to endure “Bride of Chucky.” The film stars Catherine Hicks, Chris Sarandon, Brad Dourif, Dinah Manoff, and Alex Vincent.
• “Red Velvet” (2008) Here’s one that you’ve probably never heard of and I’ll admit, it largely made my list this year because I know the filmmakers, but either way it’s still the stuff that great Halloweens are made of. Directed by Bruce Dickson, the film features Henry Thomas, yes Elliot from “E.T”, Kelli Garner, Forrest J. Ackerman, and S.A. Griffin.
• “Nosferatu” (1922) This blood sucker of a film speaks for itself. Directed by F.W Murnau, a German tale from the silent era raises the hairs on the back of my neck without saying a word. Starring Max Schreck.

Still can’t get enough, check out Paul R. Gagne’s fantastic book “The Zombies That Ate Pittsburgh” and be sure to check your local listings for the latest in bone tingling cinema including Oren Peli’s recently released “Paranormal Activity 3.”

This entry was posted on Thursday, October 27th, 2011 at 2:06 pm and is filed under Film.
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