HDC Presents: 100 Years of Horror

[Straker]

I'm not even bashing Final Destination, its one of those movies I would watch if it came on TV late at night and was already half way through. Its a fun bit of teen schlock, but seriously, there is some really quality just on the 6 front runners, let alone some of the movies that aren't being mentioned. I think Tony Todd's little cameo is kinda fun and good for a giggle, but if you actually want to critique it seriously, its a really shitty piece of writing.... They pull in a horror icon to crowbar in some exposition because the story just isn't sophisticated enough to fill the plot in any other way. The whole movie is filled with signposts and tired stereotypes.

[metternich1815]

Completely agree. Unique concept but formulaic plot. Bad acting. Stereotypical characters. Not in the same league as the others in consideration.

Also, if we don't have at least one film from the New French Extremists in our list, at least as Honorable Mentions, I will have lost all faith... IMO it's an indication that personal taste is trumping the choosing of noteworthy happenings of the decade.

Inside
Martyrs
Haute Tension
Frontiers
Trouble Every Day
Ils
In My Skin
Irreversible

Any of these could be in the top 24 discussion, and I can think of another half dozen where a case could be made.

I couldn't disagree more on Final Destination, but you did remind me that there is one other film I wanted to back: High Tension (Haute Tension).

[Giganticface]

I couldn't disagree more on Final Destination, but you did remind me that there is one other film I wanted to back: High Tension (Haute Tension).

I'll back High Tension too then. That actually might be the best choice for our purposes since it's more accessible than the rest. It demonstrates the influence the movement is having on mainstream horror, especially since Alexandre Aja went on to direct popular films The Hills Have Eyes and Piranha. It's a good example of the NFE's ability to take tried and true horror themes or formulas and turn them on their head (this one is Slasher of course). It's also a film that's ripe for discussion, however doing so here would surely spoil the ending, so I'll refrain (and hopefully everyone else will be careful about spoilers).

[_____V_____]

Added.

We are still on the lookout for our last film for the top 24. Once that is done, we can start working on the Honorable Mentions.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

[neverending]

Completely agree. Unique concept but formulaic plot. Bad acting. Stereotypical characters. Not in the same league as the others in consideration.

Also, if we don't have at least one film from the New French Extremists in our list, at least as Honorable Mentions, I will have lost all faith... IMO it's an indication that personal taste is trumping the choosing of noteworthy happenings of the decade.

Inside
Martyrs
Haute Tension
Frontiers
Trouble Every Day
Ils
In My Skin
Irreversible

Any of these could be in the top 24 discussion, and I can think of another half dozen where a case could be made.


I have to agree here. Several of these were in my original list. I guess I'll vote for Haute Tension, as it seems to have the best chance of getting in, though it's the least interesting film of the lot.

[Sculpt]

In case I hadn't mentioned, Little Otik (2000) full film is available to view for free on Youtube.com (in parts) http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9DAC66706DFAE2DF
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-qL7YMOSWsQU/TW5HnB1dURI/AAAAAAAAFJg/xqU_OxSFyG8/s1600/17.jpg

Also, if we don't have at least one film from the New French Extremists in our list, at least as Honorable Mentions, I will have lost all faith... IMO it's an indication that personal taste is trumping the choosing of noteworthy happenings of the decade.

Inside
Martyrs
Haute Tension
Frontiers
Trouble Every Day
Ils
In My Skin
Irreversible
While we're waiting on more input for #22, and while we're on the subject for one of these for HM, I did some research on all these films. From what I've read, "Inside" has a few steps on all the other films. Inside appears to be the one most considered for one of the best horror films of the decade, and completely representative of the new wave of French Horror, and highly rated by critics and audience. Also, I read there's various problems with the other films about making sense, at least within themselves, or otherwise having a worthwhile point. Inside reads as being rather straight forward (a crazy woman wants to steal a woman's unborn child).

Irreversible sounds the most interesting to me (shot in reverse chronological order). but I'm a bit apprehensive, as one reviewer wrote about the violent content leading to nothing more than 'nihilistic fate'. But that maybe inaccurate considering reading violent history in reverse doesn't equate with nihilism or fate.

My point being, High Tension reads as though it's basically about folks being killed by, and trying to evade, a psychotic killer; where the plot and characters are flat (& received 41% Critic RT Rating). Whereas Inside may be a better choice for us to support. (I'll be supporting Inside.)

[realdealblues]

I don't think Irreversible can even be considered. I suppose there is a 1 minute scene at the beginning that could be considered "horrific" and a 10 minute scene in the middle that could be considered "horrific" but the rest is 88 minutes of boring drama, and both scenes could easily be in any Crime/Drama movie made by Martin Scorsese.

[The Villain]

I don't think Irreversible can even be considered. I suppose there is a 1 minute scene at the beginning that could be considered "horrific" and a 10 minute scene in the middle that could be considered "horrific" but the rest is 88 minutes of boring drama, and both scenes could easily be in any Crime/Drama movie made by Martin Scorsese.

I agree. Disturbing and graphic but not a horror movie

[Giganticface]

Just to be clear, I think mett's, NE's and my vote for Haute Tension put it in the running for the top 24, and aren't intended to be early votes for Honorable Mention.

If we can get two more votes for Haute Tension to potentially put it in the top 24, I'll be ready and willing to back several of the films currently in contention. Heck, I'll help with Battle Royale because I think it's a good fit for HM.

[Sculpt]

Just to be clear, I think mett's, NE's and my vote for Haute Tension put it in the running for the top 24, and aren't intended to be early votes for Honorable Mention.

If we can get two more votes for Haute Tension to potentially put it in the top 24, I'll be ready and willing to back several of the films currently in contention.
Whether for #22, or Honorable Mentions, don't you think Inside is a better choice? Seems to be the only one in the list with most acclaim & notoriety.

[Giganticface]

Whether for #22, or Honorable Mentions, don't you think Inside is a better choice? Seems to be the only one in the list with most acclaim & notoriety.

That depends. Personally, I do like Inside more than Haute Tension, but I also like Martyrs better than Inside. All three are loved by some, hated by others, and have achieved some level of notoriety, depending on who you ask. I like Haute Tension, and think it's a nice choice for this list for the reasons I've already stated, but any of them are good candidates for their own reasons. I'm glad to back any of them, and I've already backed Inside, so unless V lets me vote twice, I think that's all I can do. ;) If you choose to back Inside now, I suspect someone might match it to make it tied with Haute Tension.

Just a head's up, if you're making a decision on any of these films based purely on research, keep in mind that these films are all controversial to some degree, and not just for being explicit. Many of them redefine horror formulas is ways that horror fans may not like. Any film that stirs controversy or breaks the rules will cause a wide variance in opinion. I wouldn't trust any RT or IMDB ratings for any of these films, and I certainly wouldn't be overly influenced by any single reviewer's opinion. For instance, a horror fan may choose to watch Trouble Every Day hoping to see a fresh take on the vampire subgenre, but be utterly disappointed because not a single fang is to be found in the entire film. When I first watched In My Skin, my own preconception negatively influenced the experience. I was hoping for some cool body horror that might rival Cronenberg, and instead got a woman's psychological battle, seen through an arthouse lens. The second time I watched it, I was blown away.

What I love about this group of films is that, although they disrupt the tropes, they don't come across as pretentious, as if they're better than the classic concepts they're both drawing from and mutating in the process. They treat their predecessors with a great deal of respect, and don't attempt to hide or satirize their influences. I've read plenty of less-than-insightful reviews about how such-and-such a film is just a copy of some other film. (Frontier(s) / TCM is a common one.) Almost always, however, those reviewers are not looking close enough.

Running with the Trouble Every Day example, here's a quote I like from one particular review (http://brightlightsfilm.com/68/68vampire.php#.UhkbnxufjnE):

Tellingly, there are also a number of similarities between Trouble Every Day and Bram Stoker's Dracula that deserve mention. In both films the central couple are threatened by the male character's bloodlust; blood and nudity are used expressionistically; the monster is engulfed in flames; the erotic is a focal point; and classic horror cinema is repeatedly referenced. However, unlike Coppola's film, in which the references were a synthesis and summation of vampire and horror film iconography, the allusions in Trouble Every Day act to underline its progressive intent. For example, Semeneau's deranged wife — and Shane's female doppelganger — Corè (Beatrice Dalle) swings her long cloak-like coat and ascends the stairs, evoking Bela Lugosi's Dracula; Corè is held in a large dark house reminiscent of a Gothic castle; Shane comically impersonates classic movie monsters Nosferatu and Frankenstein while visiting Notre-Dame cathedral.


That reviewer is paying attention, and clearly so is director Claire Denis.



I don't think Irreversible can even be considered. I suppose there is a 1 minute scene at the beginning that could be considered "horrific" and a 10 minute scene in the middle that could be considered "horrific" but the rest is 88 minutes of boring drama, and both scenes could easily be in any Crime/Drama movie made by Martin Scorsese.

I agree. Disturbing and graphic but not a horror movie

I agree this film is less "horror" than the rest, and it's also the the one I'd be least excited to back based on its subject matter. However, to me, that entire first scene -- not just the final 1 minute of it -- is horror. It's a brilliant conveyance of confusion, pending doom and uncontrollable bloodlust by Gaspar Noe, heavily driven by the swirling camerawork and throbbing sound design. It's true that the majority of the film is dramatic setup, although with the story told in reverse, the "setup" ends up playing more like a slow reveal. However, since all of those scenes directly reference those two disturbing scenes, IMO, it all "counts." That's the whole movie. :) This film is definitely experimental, so it will never fit cleanly into the boundaries of any genre. It's basically a unique, brutal arthouse film.

[neverending]

I'll vote for Inside and take back my vote for Haute Tension. Inside is a better film.

[_____V_____]

Done.

We are still in the hunt for our 24th finalist.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

[The Villain]

I'll back The Devils Backbone

[_____V_____]

Added.

The Devil's Backbone stakes a claim for that 24th spot as well, along with Final Destination, Little Otik and The Orphanage. All 4 films have 4 backings each.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

Which one will break away and join Ginger Snaps at the top of the list? Let's wait and see.

[Giganticface]

Little Otik.

[_____V_____]

Done.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

All/majority in agreement?

[Giganticface]

Agreed.....

[The Villain]

Sounds good to me.

[metternich1815]

Fine with me.

[hammerfan]

Sounds good.

[Straker]

Fine with me. :cool:


I'll add honourable mention backings to;

Inside
Hard Candy

and also remind people not to forget about some of the quality horror flicks that are going to miss out, like; Pulse (Kairo) and Thirst (Bakjwi) actually really surprised the latter hasn't received more support if I'm honest.

[Sculpt]

agreed

....

[Sculpt]

That depends. Personally, I do like Inside more than Haute Tension, but I also like Martyrs better than Inside. All three are loved by some, hated by others, and have achieved some level of notoriety, depending on who you ask. I like Haute Tension, and think it's a nice choice for this list for the reasons I've already stated, but any of them are good candidates for their own reasons. I'm glad to back any of them, and I've already backed Inside, so unless V lets me vote twice, I think that's all I can do. ;) If you choose to back Inside now, I suspect someone might match it to make it tied with Haute Tension.

Just a head's up, if you're making a decision on any of these films based purely on research, keep in mind that these films are all controversial to some degree, and not just for being explicit. Many of them redefine horror formulas is ways that horror fans may not like. Any film that stirs controversy or breaks the rules will cause a wide variance in opinion. I wouldn't trust any RT or IMDB ratings for any of these films, and I certainly wouldn't be overly influenced by any single reviewer's opinion. For instance, a horror fan may choose to watch Trouble Every Day hoping to see a fresh take on the vampire subgenre, but be utterly disappointed because not a single fang is to be found in the entire film. When I first watched In My Skin, my own preconception negatively influenced the experience. I was hoping for some cool body horror that might rival Cronenberg, and instead got a woman's psychological battle, seen through an arthouse lens. The second time I watched it, I was blown away.

What I love about this group of films is that, although they disrupt the tropes, they don't come across as pretentious, as if they're better than the classic concepts they're both drawing from and mutating in the process. They treat their predecessors with a great deal of respect, and don't attempt to hide or satirize their influences. I've read plenty of less-than-insightful reviews about how such-and-such a film is just a copy of some other film. (Frontier(s) / TCM is a common one.) Almost always, however, those reviewers are not looking close enough.

Running with the Trouble Every Day example, here's a quote I like from one particular review (http://brightlightsfilm.com/68/68vampire.php#.UhkbnxufjnE):
That reviewer is paying attention, and clearly so is director Claire Denis.

I agree this film is less "horror" than the rest, and it's also the the one I'd be least excited to back based on its subject matter. However, to me, that entire first scene -- not just the final 1 minute of it -- is horror. It's a brilliant conveyance of confusion, pending doom and uncontrollable bloodlust by Gaspar Noe, heavily driven by the swirling camerawork and throbbing sound design. It's true that the majority of the film is dramatic setup, although with the story told in reverse, the "setup" ends up playing more like a slow reveal. However, since all of those scenes directly reference those two disturbing scenes, IMO, it all "counts." That's the whole movie. :) This film is definitely experimental, so it will never fit cleanly into the boundaries of any genre. It's basically a unique, brutal arthouse film.
Say, Gigan, let me say, I not only enjoyed reading your insight into the films, genre and general reviewer idiosyncrasies, I think you write well too. IMO has good flow, subtle humorous references, and conceptually succinct use of adjectives, as here:

"For instance, a horror fan may choose to watch Trouble Every Day hoping to see a fresh take on the vampire subgenre, but be utterly disappointed because not a single fang is to be found in the entire film. When I first watched In My Skin, my own preconception negatively influenced the experience. I was hoping for some cool body horror that might rival Cronenberg, and instead got a woman's psychological battle, seen through an arthouse lens.For instance, a horror fan may choose to watch Trouble Every Day hoping to see a fresh take on the vampire subgenre, but be utterly disappointed because not a single fang is to be found in the entire film. When I first watched In My Skin, my own preconception negatively influenced the experience. I was hoping for some cool body horror that might rival Cronenberg, and instead got a woman's psychological battle, seen through an arthouse lens."

[_____V_____]

Okay, majority are in favor so the top 24 are sealed.

The front runners for the Honorable Mentions are highlighted in BOLD at the top under their separate section. In addition, those films with 2 backings have been underlined as well.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

We have SIX films with most backings for our Honorable Mentions. Do we go with them by default, or is there more scope for debate?

Have your say. If the majority agrees, the SIX in bold will be passed.

[Sculpt]

I'm fine with the 6 (in bold & below) that have the most votes. All of these have a lot of support. I might like to change-out a few, but I know there aren't votes for it.

Battle Royale (2000)
Final Destination (2000)
The Orphanage (2007)
The Devil's Backbone (2001)
Hard Candy (2005)
Inside aka À l'intérieur (2007)

NOTE: But if we vote not to go with the 6 leading films, than I'm not backing all of these films.

.

[neverending]

Pulse (Kairo)
Mum and Dad - a really savage British horror film and satire on family life. The Christmas scene pushes things way over the top.
Battle Royale
Hard Candy
Ils
Frontier(s)

[The Villain]

Battle Royale
The Orphanage
The Devils Backbone
Hard Candy
Inside
Julia's Eyes

[metternich1815]

I'm fine with those six.

[Straker]

I'm backing The Host.... Didn't even realise it hadn't already made the cut, massive over sight, at least on my part. Made my original list with ease, awesome movie and really should be recognised on our list. Great group of characters with a family driven story that is rare to see these days. Action packed entertainment pretty much from the get go. Sorry I didn't get behind this movie sooner and really hoping it can make a late surge and knock Final Destination out of the running. :cool:

[The Villain]

I'll back The Host as well

[_____V_____]

Done.

We are still at the default SIX.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

[Giganticface]

I'm okay with those six too. I would personally swap a couple out, but I'm sure we all have that opinion.

My thoughts on the current candidates:

I don't think The Orphanage is necessary because it's in the same vein as Pan's Labyrinth and The Devil's Backbone, but it's a pretty good film. I found the story fairly uneventful, and I predicted the ending, but the atmosphere is decent, albeit overly-dependent on creepy loud noises. If we were going to add a slow-burn atmospheric film, I'd pick Session 9 by a mile.

I agree with some others that Final Destination is not a great film. However, it's the only true slasher in the bunch (by "true" I mean formulaic), so if nothing else, it shows that slashers are not en vogue, and in order to gain notice, they had to do something gimmicky like remove the physical stalker altogether. That's not a great reason to include it, but at least it's a justification.

Some of the other suggested films are really good too. Mum & Dad, The Host, Pulse, Ils, Frontiere(s), Thirst... All worthy. I wouldn't vote for Pulse simply because we already have The Ring and Shutter. I'd rather see some non-"J" Asian horror get in, like Oldboy or Thirst (and I'd pick Oldboy for its notoriety). A much as I love them, I'd have a tough time including two New French Extremist films in the Honorables -- it would be a missed opportunity to sweep up with greater diversity -- but I strongly feel that one should have been in the top 24, and another in the HM's due to the extent of its influence, overall quality, and breadth of style and subject matter.

I guess at this time, I'm not going to add any backings unless someone wants to lobby for a particular film. The films I, personally, would include are Inside, Black Swan, Oldboy, and Session 9, all of which I've already backed. I also like Battle Royale in the list for being a unique outlier (but not officially backing it at this time... I might if it looked like it was going to fall). That would leave one spot for another quality choice, maybe The Signal or The Host, or Devil's Backbone, even though it would double-up on del Toro. He's one of the important drivers of the genre right now, so deserving.



My thoughts on the overall list, realizing this has no bearing:

If we could fine-tune tune the list (understanding that we can't), I'd get rid of The Ring because we already have Ringu in the 90s, or make it a Special Mention since it does have importance for bringing J-Horror worldwide. I think this is a result of us submitting our 2000s while debating the 90s.

I'd remove Dog Soldiers because Neil Marshall doesn't need two, and The Descent is a better representation.

I also don't love having both Behind the Mask or Cabin in the Woods in the top 24. I actually think neither is worthy of such high rankings, but I don't have an issue with one being there. Both satirize our genre by joking about cliches, providing explanations of common flaws, and reinforcing stereotypes. I'd rather dispell that believe by including good films. ;) They're both fun though, and if I were picking one it would be Cabin in the Woods because it's actually scary in parts, and does a nice job with the immoral game show trope. My main beef, however, is just that I think including both is redundant.

I watched Little Otik before backing it (actually not quite finished yet) and it's great. In my mind though, it's proabably a better fit for Honorable Mentions due to its relative obscurity and being a stylistic outlier, but that's only if I were fine-tuning this list to the Nth degree... It's well deserving of a top spot.


Say, Gigan, let me say, I not only enjoyed reading your insight into the films, genre and general reviewer idiosyncrasies, I think you write well too. IMO has good flow, subtle humorous references, and conceptually succinct use of adjectives, as here:


Thanks Sculpt... I appreciate the kind words.

[Straker]

If we could fine-tune tune the list (understanding that we can't)

If I were fine tuning the list, my first targets for culling would be Jeepers Creepers, Signs and Cabin in the Woods.... None of them are strong enough to warrant a top 20 spot. We are way past that point though and somehow they were all popular choices and represent the opinions of the majority which is ultimately what this process is about.

[Giganticface]

If I were fine tuning the list, my first targets for culling would be Jeepers Creepers, Signs and Cabin in the Woods.... None of them are strong enough to warrant a top 20 spot. We are way past that point though and somehow they were all popular choices and represent the opinions of the majority which is ultimately what this process is about.

Yep, totally agree about representing the opinions of the majority. Just throwing my thoughts out there.

Jeepers Creepers is the one film on the list I haven't seen.

[Straker]

Jeepers Creepers is the one film on the list I haven't seen.

No rush there.... Its kinda fun, nice brainless popcorn flick that doesn't tax the brain, but equally doesn't add any value to the genre. I quite like it I guess, but there are easily 50 better films from the era.

[Giganticface]

No rush there.... Its kinda fun, nice brainless popcorn flick that doesn't tax the brain, but equally doesn't add any value to the genre. I quite like it I guess, but there are easily 50 better films from the era.

Good to know, for both the positives and negatives you point out. It's on my watchlist, but never seems to make the cut come movie-watching time.

[Sculpt]

If I were fine tuning the list, my first targets for culling would be Jeepers Creepers, Signs and Cabin in the Woods.... None of them are strong enough to warrant a top 20 spot. We are way past that point though and somehow they were all popular choices and represent the opinions of the majority which is ultimately what this process is about.
Agree wholeheartedly. Also agree with Gigan on Dog Soldiers. I enjoyed all of the films, just wouldn't considering them great or extraordinarily noteworthy. (I know we aren't editing)


If, as a group, we decided against going with the top 6 films (after 21/22 was done), then these would be my 6 HM choices:

The Host aka Gwoemul (2006)
Oldboy (2003)
Pulse aka (Kairo) (2001)
Inside aka À l'intérieur (2007)
Hard Candy (2005)
John Dies at the End (2012)

[Giganticface]

John Dies at the End (2012)

I still gotta see this one.

[Sculpt]

I still gotta see this one.
John Dies at the End is on Netflix. I think it's fast paced semi-narrated directing, plot and story was really effectively executed, fascinating, and a lot of fun, serious and humorous at the same time. It's sort of it's own fusion type of horror film. I thought it was really smart, and played like stream of consciousness. Not without flaws, but I thought it was original and notable.

[_____V_____]

Looks like the majority are in favor of the 6 Honorable Mentions as well, so if there aren't any more late surprises, shall we call it for the 2000s here?

We still need to go through ONE more step before we wind up this project.

[Giganticface]

In case it got lost in my long post, yep, I'm cool with the six.

[The Villain]

The only movie i have a problem with is Final Destination. I really dont think it deserves a spot anywhere on here

[Sculpt]

If folks wanted to go with the new 6 HR backings, I'm ok with it. One could add up the new backings and see what you get.

[Kandarian Demon]

Looks fine to me...

[_____V_____]

Is anyone else against Final Destination? Reason I ask is because of Villain's latest post, plus the -1 beside it's name in the list.

Last call, before we wrap up proceedings and go to the last step of our project.

[neverending]

I'll give FD a neg.

[_____V_____]

Two negative votes for Final Destination - from Villain & NE.

It still has 5 backers (and 3 votes) so it stays in place unless another contender springs up to take it's place. Either that, or someone else negates it's position, in which case it will drop down and the 6th Honorable Mentions spot will be vacated.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

I'll give this 12 more hours.

[Giganticface]

I'll give FD a neg.

If I'm counting right, I think that would put it at 3 votes, which is still one vote more than any other film, so it's still in the top six.

Looking at the rest of the films with 2 votes, there are some good ones there. However, the more I think about it, the more I'm actually considering voting for Hostel. I know that opinions vary on the film, but you've got to admit, that film's name comes up in a lot of horror conversations. If you were to ask many casual horror fans to name 5 horror films from the 2000s, that film might actually get more mentions than any other. Also, the first time I saw it, I was utterly terrified by the concept. I had trouble shaking it for several days, and couldn't help talking about it, even with people that had very little interest in the conversation. Even if you don't like the film, it's hard to deny that there are some unique concepts in it, like the gang of children that will spare your life for candy.

[The Villain]

If I'm counting right, I think that would put it at 3 votes, which is still one vote more than any other film, so it's still in the top six.

Looking at the rest of the films with 2 votes, there are some good ones there. However, the more I think about it, the more I'm actually considering voting for Hostel. I know that opinions vary on the film, but you've got to admit, that film's name comes up in a lot of horror conversations. If you were to ask many casual horror fans to name 5 horror films from the 2000s, that film might actually get more mentions than any other. Also, the first time I saw it, I was utterly terrified by the concept. I had trouble shaking it for several days, and couldn't help talking about it, even with people that had very little interest in the conversation. Even if you don't like the film, it's hard to deny that there are some unique concepts in it, like the gang of children that will spare your life for candy.

I'd back Hostel. I feel it was very important in getting horror back on track. It definitely influenced, along with Saw, the torture porn craze and its actually a pretty disturbing film IMO. I really liked it when it first came out. I think the only reason it gets bad remarks is actually because of its sub par sequels.

[metternich1815]

I'll remove my negative vote for Dawn of the Dead and move it to Hostel. While I agree the film's premise was unique, it was lacking in most other places for me. It seemed like more of a ripoff of Psycho and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre than anything. And the acting was not really that great either. Final Destination is a superior films in many ways, in my opinion. The premise was really unique and well-executed. The acting was not Academy Award material, but it was not bad either, in my opinion. As for formulaic, that was the kind of the point. It was intended to be a different kind of slasher. I think there is a lot more to it than many here have assumed. Anyway, in my opinion, it is far more deserving to be on this list than Hostel, which is why I will negative vote Hostel. I respect everyone's opinions, but simply strongly disagree. Other than that, the Honorable Mentions section is fine with me.

[The Villain]

I'll remove my negative vote for Dawn of the Dead and move it to Hostel. While I agree the film's premise was unique, it was lacking in most other places for me. It seemed like more of a ripoff of Psycho and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre than anything. And the acting was not really that great either. Final Destination is a superior films in many ways, in my opinion. The premise was really unique and well-executed. The acting was not Academy Award material, but it was not bad either, in my opinion. As for formulaic, that was the kind of the point. It was intended to be a different kind of slasher. I think there is a lot more to it than many here have assumed. Anyway, in my opinion, it is far more deserving to be on this list than Hostel, which is why I will negative vote Hostel. I respect everyone's opinions, but simply strongly disagree. Other than that, the Honorable Mentions section is fine with me.

I'm fine with Hostel not being on the list. There's plenty of other movies that deserve it more. However i do like the film and believe it to be important to the genre due to when it came out and what it contributed towards however the real reason i backed it is to try and get rid of Final Destination. All your arguments showed was that Final Destination is better, in your opinion, then Hostel and shows just how mediocre FD is.

I like Final Destination, i really do. It's stupid fun. But it's basically just "Let's see how everyone dies next." It's not scary, it's not well made or well acted. If it weren't for all the ridiculous sequels they churned out, it would be forgettable.

Final Destination is barely a movie, it's a cheap gimmick. It's not a good movie that somebody made. It's an interesting premise that someone came up with and then turned into a movie.

[Sculpt]

That's why I mentioned adding them up, because I posted, if we're not sticking with original 6, then my 6 HR backings are (and I've included the backings):

The Host aka Gwoemul (2006) (backed by The Villain) {Straker*}, Sculpt) [The Host on netfilx]
Oldboy (2003) (backed by neverending, seconded by Giganticface, Sculpt)
Pulse aka (Kairo) (2001) (backed by neverending, seconded by Straker, Sculpt)
Inside aka À l'intérieur (2007) (backed by Giganticface, seconded by neverending, Straker) {The Villain*}, Sculpt)
Hard Candy (2005) (backed by neverending, seconded by The Villain, metternich1815, Straker, Sculpt)
John Dies at the End (2012) (Sculpt)

I think The Host, Oldboy and Pulse would be better choices than Hostel. I'm leaving official counts to V only, but for the sake of making any practical sense whatsoever: my HR backings would (unofficially) give these three films 3 backings each. One switch by someone would seal the 6th HR.

Villian - would you support Oldboy or Pulse over Hostel?
Mett - would you support Host, Oldboy or Pulse over Hostel?
Gigan - would you support Host or Oldboy over Hostel?
Straker - would you support Oldboy over Hostel?
neverending - would you support Host over Hostel?

If any of you would, than that would become the 6th HR (unofficially).

[The Villain]

That's why I mentioned adding them up, because I posted, if we're not sticking with original 6, then my 6 HR backings are (and I've included the backings):

The Host aka Gwoemul (2006) (backed by The Villain) {Straker*}, Sculpt)
Oldboy (2003) (backed by neverending, seconded by Giganticface, Sculpt)
Pulse aka (Kairo) (2001) (backed by neverending, seconded by Straker, Sculpt)
Inside aka À l'intérieur (2007) (backed by Giganticface, seconded by neverending, Straker) {The Villain*}, Sculpt)
Hard Candy (2005) (backed by neverending, seconded by The Villain, metternich1815, Straker, Sculpt)
John Dies at the End (2012) (Sculpt)

I think The Host, Oldboy and Pulse would be better choices than Hostel. I'm leaving official counts to V only, but for the sake of making any practical sense whatsoever: my HR backings would (unofficially) give these three films 3 backings each. One switch by someone would seal the 6th HR.

Villian - would you support Oldboy or Pulse over Hostel?
Mett - would you support Host, Oldboy or Pulse over Hostel?
Gigan - would you support Host or Oldboy over Hostel?
Straker - would you support Oldboy over Hostel?
neverending - would you support Host over Hostel?

If any of you would, than that would become the 6th HR (unofficially).

I hated Oldboy and have only seen the remake of Pulse so no i wouldnt. But i would prefer Host over Hostel and Final Destination. I know i've already backed it but thats one i would really like to see make the list.

[_____V_____]

All added.

2 films drop down from the SIX, and thus 2 spots have been vacated. We have 3 new contenders for those slots, which makes it a fight between 5 films for 2 spots.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

Battle Royale
Final Destination
The Host
Oldboy
Kairo (aka) Pulse

Need to find 2 from the above 5.

[neverending]

I've already backed Pulse and Battle Royale. I'll also back Oldboy.

[Giganticface]

I've already backed Pulse and Battle Royale. I'll also back Oldboy.

You already backed Oldboy too. I think you were the first. :)

[neverending]

Damn...lol...

[Sculpt]

The remake of Oldboy looks really cool to me. Directed by Spike Lee.

[The Villain]

The remake of Oldboy looks really cool to me. Directed by Spike Lee.

Like I needed another reason not to see it.

I really don't get why people like that movie so much.

[Giganticface]

Well, we seem to be at a standstill, so in this battle personal preferences, I guess I'll start voting for other peoples' favorites.

Battle Royale
The Host

[Sculpt]

FYI - The Host is on Netflix.

[neverending]

Like I needed another reason not to see it.

I really don't get why people like that movie so much.


Miike is a god...

[Giganticface]

Miike is a god...

So is Chan-wook Park. ;)

FYI - The Host is on Netflix.

Yep, I've seen it.

[Straker]

I just wanna say, Oldboy is one of my favourite revenge flicks and The Vengeance Trilogy, for me, is at the zenith of revenge cinema. I also think Park Chan-wook is an amazing writer and director. That said, when I think Oldboy I don't automatically think 'horror' which is why I haven't backed it.... I'll be honest, its also why I am a little disappointed to see a lack of support for 'Thirst'. Want some Park Chan-wook in the list? Get behind his best 'horror' flick before its too late!

[neverending]

So is Chan-wook Park. ;)



Yep, I've seen it.

Damn... this senility thing is really getting to me.

[The Villain]

Still haven't heard what people like about it so much, aside from it has a good director. (That is if NE can remember who made it.) All i've read is that it's great.

I'm not knocking anyone's personal opinion. If you like it, that's cool. I just don't and if it was some run of the mill movie, i really wouldnt care but this movie get's a lot of praise and i just don't see why.

[_____V_____]

Done.

And we again arrive at SIX selected for Honorable Mentions :-

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57593&page=120

If majority are in favor, we can call it here and move ahead.

[Sculpt]

To the Bat Cave

[neverending]

I'll go with those.

[_____V_____]

While I wait for the majority to approve these final SIX films for our 00s Honorable Mentions, I would like to describe the final phase of our project.

We have arrived at 255 selections - 200 of the best films in horror history + 55 Honorable Mentions.

Add 40 more to those, which will be specially selected by me under the Special Recs section.

That makes it 295 films.

We have space for 5 more, and I want to give some space to a sub-genre mostly overlooked by many of us - horror documentaries.

Now, Haxan is a pseudo-documentary as well, but many parts of it were enacted, so it's not an exact documentary.

This will be our last and final phase of the project, where we finalise FIVE documentaries which display the history of horror films and serve as a guide to the common man about the genre.

This will take the total tally to 300 films, and we couldn't have a more comprehensive set of films to represent horror in here, and outside.

I have a few in mind...

Universal Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0214247/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1998)
Flesh and Blood: The Hammer Heritage of Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0199528/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1994)
100 Years of Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0166940/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1996)
The American Nightmare (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0259182/?ref_=fn_al_tt_4) (2000)
Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0489062/?ref_=sr_1) (2006)

I think all of them are excellent documentaries chronicling the history and/or glorious moments of horror films.

If majority are in favor, we can finalise these 5 above for that small section and call it a day for this project. If you have a better recommendation than the ones above, please feel free to post them.

[neverending]

CORMAN
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1185371/

AIP
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0280780/

HARRYHAUSEN
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1839590/


Problem with the Corman doc is that it doesn't focus specifically on horror.

[The Villain]

I'm good with those six.

I'm not big on Documentaries so I'll abstain from this part.

[hammerfan]

I've seen The American Nightmare, Flesh and Blood: The Hammer Heritage of Horror, and 100 Years of Horror. Haven't seen the other two documentaries, but I'm ok with the five.

[Kandarian Demon]

I would like to suggest this very well done documentary:
Never Sleep Again: The Elm Street Legacy (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1510985/?ref_=sr_1).

Out of the mentioned documentaries, I have seen "100 years of Horror" and would definitely support that.

[metternich1815]

I am sure that those documentaries would all be great, so I am fine with them. I have only seen The Slasher one though (I did want to see The American Nightmare one; I have not heard of the others). Two other horror movie documentaries I watch alot are Monster Mania (narrated by Jack Palance) and The Red, White, and Blue one (hosted by Lance Henrikson). I have seen the Monster Mania one dozens of times.

[hammerfan]

I am sure that those documentaries would all be great, so I am fine with them. I have only seen The Slasher one though (I did want to see The American Nightmare one; I have not heard of the others). Two other horror movie documentaries I watch alot are Monster Mania (narrated by Jack Palance) and The Red, White, and Blue one (hosted by Lance Henrikson). I have seen the Monster Mania one dozens of times.

Oh yeah, the Red, White, and Blue documentary is excellent!

EDIT: The full title is "Nightmares in Red, White, and Blue"

[Straker]

Mark Gattis (The League of Gentlemen) made a quality horror doc, A History of Horror which is worth consideration. Filled with interviews and insights from horror legends and presented by someone with a genuine passion for the genre, well worth watching.

I haven't really seen that many horror docs though to be honest, so I haven't got much input to add, but I would like to see something special effects orientated in the list. Guys like Harryhausen, Bottin, Baker, Savini have really given a lot to the genre and this seems like a good opportunity to acknowledge their contribution, if possible. Something like;

The Starz Inside: Fantastic Flesh

Not a pure horror doc, but focuses on special effects, contains a lot of horror legends, well worth watching.

[hammerfan]

Mark Gattis (The League of Gentlemen) made a quality horror doc, A History of Horror which is worth consideration. Filled with interviews and insights from horror legends and presented by someone with a genuine passion for the genre, well worth watching.

I've look on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Movies Unlimited, can't find this title.

[Straker]

Sorry for the double post, just found A History of Horror on youtube and thought I would post the link. Its well worth a watch guys, great fun and Gattis' enthusiasm for the genre is great to see. I think you guys will really enjoy this one, so give it a watch if you get chance!

xQRsniET50k

[Straker]

I've look on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Movies Unlimited, can't find this title.

I just had a look too, looks like this was never released as a DvD, two of the three episodes are available to watch on youtube, link for one of those is in my previous post.... That said, the second episode has been removed for copyright reasons and that one focused on hammer horror and I know you would've loved it! Frustrating!

[hammerfan]

Thank you! I'll have to watch it when I'm home. I'm at work right now.

[metternich1815]

I am fine with the Honorable Mentions as well.

[neverending]

Mark Gattis (The League of Gentlemen) made a quality horror doc, A History of Horror which is worth consideration. Filled with interviews and insights from horror legends and presented by someone with a genuine passion for the genre, well worth watching.

I haven't really seen that many horror docs though to be honest, so I haven't got much input to add, but I would like to see something special effects orientated in the list. Guys like Harryhausen, Bottin, Baker, Savini have really given a lot to the genre and this seems like a good opportunity to acknowledge their contribution, if possible. Something like;

The Starz Inside: Fantastic Flesh

Not a pure horror doc, but focuses on special effects, contains a lot of horror legends, well worth watching.

My Harryhausen recommendation doesn't fit that bill?

[Straker]

My Harryhausen recommendation doesn't fit that bill?

Haven't seen it, but yes I definitely think that fits the bill.... I guess I was hoping for something that covered the history of sfx rather than just Harryhausen. That said, Harryhausen is an absolute legend and I'd be more than happy to have him represent the importance of special effects in horror.

[Giganticface]

Great idea, V! A list of horror documentaries could be really valuable to a visitor stumbling upon our list. Maybe 5 is not enough, and at you'd consider reducing the number of Special Recs in favor of a handful more documentaries that you deem worthy.

I haven't seen many of the films mentioned, but now I'm excited to go watch them. Nightmares in Red, White and Blue is on Netflix streaming -- score! I've seen half of 100 Years of Horror, which was great. (That reminds me, I need to finish it.) I loved learning about the visionary Lon Chaney, who did his own makeup, the diverging careers and personalities of Bela vs. Boris, the Hammer explosion... Really interesting and informative.

As a counterpoint to all the straight horror documentaries, one film that was influential in my horror vocabulary was American Grindhouse (2010) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1307861/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1). While 100 Years of Horror covers the true legends, this film covers the branch of cinema that will never win an Academy Award, but had a stark influence on the horror genre (among others), including Freaks (1932), Maniac (1934), Blood Feast, and the like. It also puts legit classics like Dracula (1931), Frankenstein (1931) and Psycho in context as films that were subversive and disturbing for their time. I might have first learned about the cannibal subgenre from this film, but I could be misremembering. It definitely includes stuff like Ilsa, She Wolf of the SS and other shlocky stuff. However, more important than the actual films mentioned, it focuses on our collective lust to see shocking stuff, as well as the once-bustling grindhouse theater culture in which these films could be viewed. Anyway, just throwing it out there for variety. As others have mentioned regarding other documentaries, this one is not purely horror, but covers the underground that I believe is important to the genre.

Also, I'm good with the six HMs.

[_____V_____]

CORMAN
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1185371/

AIP
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0280780/

HARRYHAUSEN
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1839590/

Problem with the Corman doc is that it doesn't focus specifically on horror.

Excellent recs, though I am afraid we might have to skip the Corman doc for the reason above.

I would like to suggest this very well done documentary:
Never Sleep Again: The Elm Street Legacy (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1510985/?ref_=sr_1).

I don't want to focus on documentaries of specific films, hence didn't name some others - the Friday the 13th one, Omen Legacy, Terror in the Aisles, etc.

Looking specifically for documentaries which broadly covers most of our genre's films, it's history and it's impact on modern society and culture.

Two other horror movie documentaries I watch alot are Monster Mania (narrated by Jack Palance) and The Red, White, and Blue one (hosted by Lance Henrikson). I have seen the Monster Mania one dozens of times.

Oh yeah, the Red, White, and Blue documentary is excellent!

EDIT: The full title is "Nightmares in Red, White, and Blue"

Nice. I haven't seen it yet so I'll have a look into that one. Thanks for the heads up!

Mark Gattis (The League of Gentlemen) made a quality horror doc, A History of Horror which is worth consideration. Filled with interviews and insights from horror legends and presented by someone with a genuine passion for the genre, well worth watching.

I haven't really seen that many horror docs though to be honest, so I haven't got much input to add, but I would like to see something special effects orientated in the list. Guys like Harryhausen, Bottin, Baker, Savini have really given a lot to the genre and this seems like a good opportunity to acknowledge their contribution, if possible. Something like;

The Starz Inside: Fantastic Flesh

Not a pure horror doc, but focuses on special effects, contains a lot of horror legends, well worth watching.

Nice. And thank you for the youtube link as well!

Haven't seen it, but yes I definitely think that fits the bill.... I guess I was hoping for something that covered the history of sfx rather than just Harryhausen. That said, Harryhausen is an absolute legend and I'd be more than happy to have him represent the importance of special effects in horror.

Same here. I am sure the Harryhausen doc would have covered his sci-fi career tool, but he did some quality work in giant monster films and fantasy films bordering on horror. We can include the doc based on him, no problem.

Great idea, V! A list of horror documentaries could be really valuable to a visitor stumbling upon our list. Maybe 5 is not enough, and at you'd consider reducing the number of Special Recs in favor of a handful more documentaries that you deem worthy.

I haven't seen many of the films mentioned, but now I'm excited to go watch them. Nightmares in Red, White and Blue is on Netflix streaming -- score! I've seen half of 100 Years of Horror, which was great. (That reminds me, I need to finish it.) I loved learning about the visionary Lon Chaney, who did his own makeup, the diverging careers and personalities of Bela vs. Boris, the Hammer explosion... Really interesting and informative.

As a counterpoint to all the straight horror documentaries, one film that was influential in my horror vocabulary was American Grindhouse (2010) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1307861/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1). While 100 Years of Horror covers the true legends, this film covers the branch of cinema that will never win an Academy Award, but had a stark influence on the horror genre (among others), including Freaks (1932), Maniac (1934), Blood Feast, and the like. It also puts legit classics like Dracula (1931), Frankenstein (1931) and Psycho in context as films that were subversive and disturbing for their time. I might have first learned about the cannibal subgenre from this film, but I could be misremembering. It definitely includes stuff like Ilsa, She Wolf of the SS and other shlocky stuff. However, more important than the actual films mentioned, it focuses on our collective lust to see shocking stuff, as well as the once-bustling grindhouse theater culture in which these films could be viewed. Anyway, just throwing it out there for variety. As others have mentioned regarding other documentaries, this one is not purely horror, but covers the underground that I believe is important to the genre.

Thanks! Gee whiz how could I forget American Grindhouse?! Quality stuff. Thanks for reminding me.


Yes, like Giganticface suggested, with so many good recommendations coming through, I am tempted to increase the number of documentary recommendations to TEN. The "Specially Recommended" section will be further pruned to 35 films, instead of 40.

Thanks, folks. We seal off the 2000s here, now that the majority don't seem to have any problems with the final SIX Honorable Mentions.

The final list of documentaries will be posted tomorrow by me, and we will wind up this project. If you can think of some other good recs for the documentaries, feel free to post ahead.

Expect the sticky up by Sunday, September 1st. I hope all fans of horror (and beyond) of our forum and the outside world benefit by it when the holiday season comes through in a month's time.

[Sculpt]

(I/Sculpt edited down post) We have arrived at 255 selections - 200 of the best films in horror history + 55 Honorable Mentions.

Add 40 more to those, which will be specially selected by me under the Special Recs section.

That makes it 295 films.

This will be our last and final phase of the project, where we finalise FIVE documentaries which display the history of horror films and serve as a guide to the common man about the genre.

I have a few in mind...

Universal Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0214247/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1998)
Flesh and Blood: The Hammer Heritage of Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0199528/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1994)
100 Years of Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0166940/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1996)
The American Nightmare (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0259182/?ref_=fn_al_tt_4) (2000)
Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0489062/?ref_=sr_1) (2006)

If majority are in favor, we can finalise these 5 above for that small section and call it a day for this project. If you have a better recommendation than the ones above, please feel free to post them.
V, can you tell us a little more about the Special Recommendations section? ...what it's for, why you're doing it, what purpose it serves, how you're picking films, that sort of thing?

(I went back to the first post of the thread to see if there was more info about it at the beginning, but I wasn't able to find any info on Spec Recs.)

[_____V_____]

V, can you tell us a little more about the Special Recommendations section? ...what it's for, why you're doing it, what purpose it serves, how you're picking films, that sort of thing?

I am doing it because of you folks. It was not a part of my initial plan.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?p=954395&highlight=specially+recommend#post954395

Page 91, post 904.

[Sculpt]

Universal Horror (1998)
Flesh and Blood: The Hammer Heritage of Horror (1994)
100 Years of Horror (1996)
The American Nightmare (2000)
Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (2006)

Looks like a good list to me. Other docs that are very broad on horror film are:

The American Nightmare (2000) - An examination into the nature of 1960's-70's horror films, the involved artists, and how they reflected contemporary society.

Terror in the Aisles (1984) - A compilation of trailers and scenes from science fiction, crime drama and horror films of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. - (Saw this long ago and enjoyed it. As you can see includes 'crime drama', though I don't recall that. Probably is inferior to a few of the others, & maybe redundant, but I it's one I saw that I know was good. Not recommending this be included.)

(already mentioned) Nightmares in Red, White and Blue: The Evolution of the American Horror Film (2009) - An exploration of the appeal of horror films, with interviews of many legendary directors in the genre.


If horror doc was increased, we might consider picking a section of horror docs using the same criteria as the rest of '100 Years', which is, those docs that are excellent and notable, which could be about any horror subject, rather than restricting to docs about horror films. These might include docs like:

American Movie (1999) - (Excellent film!) Documentary about an aspiring filmmaker's attempts to finance his dream project by finally completing the low-budget horror film he abandoned years before.

The Fear of God: 25 Years of 'The Exorcist' (1998) The Exorcist became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. This making-of documentary tells the story of its creation and describes how audiences reacted to it. Interviews with cast and crew are shown.

The Aswang Phenomenon (2011) - What would happen if a country of 97 million people were taught at a young age that the boogie man was real. In the Philippines for the last 400 years, the 'aswang' has been used as propoganda and social control by Spanish Colonizers, the Catholic Church, the Philippine Administration, and even the CIA.

Halloween: 25 Years of Terror (2006) - A documentary that follows the evolution of the 'Halloween' movies over the past twenty-five years

A Night at the Movies: The Horrors of Stephen King (2011) - Author Stephen King discusses the various types of horror films and why they are so popular with moviegoers.

[Sculpt]

I am doing it because of you folks. It was not a part of my initial plan.

http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?p=954395&highlight=specially+recommend#post954395

Page 91, post 904.
Sorry, didn't put those two things together. How long (how many paragraphs or words) are you thinking would be appropriate for a Spec Recs write up? (As I volunteered to do a write up for Ghostbusters.)

[neverending]

I've seen that one with King, and even though I'm a big King fan, I found that documentary banal in many parts, rehashing what's been said over and over and over about many films and trends. It came across to me as King rfeading a script that was prepared for him, rather than him sharing his own insights. I don't think it's up to the quality of other suggestions.

[Sculpt]

Good feedback. If we're expanding the horror doc section, let's not include the Stephen King one. I haven't seen the King one, nor all the ones I mentioned.

I do highly recommend American Movie (1999) and The Fear of God: 25 Years of 'The Exorcist' (1998). American Movie is a really good documentary. Has it all: tough times, family angst, friendship, very funny and heart warming. It's actually become one of the most famous documentaries of all-time, and of course, probably the most famous doc in the horror film subject matter.

[neverending]

I love American Movie, and thought about suggesting it, but ultimately, I don't think it's about horror movies. It's certainly about indie filmmaking, the American dream, and human spirit, but if someone wanted to learn about horror movies, they wouldn't find it here. That's why they didn't call it something like Making a Horror Movie- they called it American Movie. Its story is universal.

American Movie is about horror movies in the same way that North By Northwest is about crop dusting,





"No- it's pronounced COE-VIN!"

[_____V_____]

Terror in the Aisles (1984) - A compilation of trailers and scenes from science fiction, crime drama and horror films of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. - (Saw this long ago and enjoyed it. As you can see includes 'crime drama', though I don't recall that. Probably is inferior to a few of the others, & maybe redundant, but I it's one I saw that I know was good. Not recommending this be included.)

American Movie (1999) - (Excellent film!) Documentary about an aspiring filmmaker's attempts to finance his dream project by finally completing the low-budget horror film he abandoned years before.

The Fear of God: 25 Years of 'The Exorcist' (1998) The Exorcist became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. This making-of documentary tells the story of its creation and describes how audiences reacted to it. Interviews with cast and crew are shown.

The Aswang Phenomenon (2011) - What would happen if a country of 97 million people were taught at a young age that the boogie man was real. In the Philippines for the last 400 years, the 'aswang' has been used as propoganda and social control by Spanish Colonizers, the Catholic Church, the Philippine Administration, and even the CIA.

Halloween: 25 Years of Terror (2006) - A documentary that follows the evolution of the 'Halloween' movies over the past twenty-five years

A Night at the Movies: The Horrors of Stephen King (2011) - Author Stephen King discusses the various types of horror films and why they are so popular with moviegoers.

I do highly recommend American Movie (1999) and The Fear of God: 25 Years of 'The Exorcist' (1998). American Movie is a really good documentary. Has it all: tough times, family angst, friendship, very funny and heart warming. It's actually become one of the most famous documentaries of all-time, and of course, probably the most famous doc in the horror film subject matter.

Quoting myself from the previous page (since it seems like you are hellbent upon not reading my previous replies)

I don't want to focus on documentaries of specific films, hence didn't name some others - the Friday the 13th one, Omen Legacy, Terror in the Aisles, etc.

Looking specifically for documentaries which broadly covers most of our genre's films, it's history and it's impact on modern society and culture.



Sorry, didn't put those two things together. How long (how many paragraphs or words) are you thinking would be appropriate for a Spec Recs write up? (As I volunteered to do a write up for Ghostbusters.)

Patience. All will be revealed in due time.


-----------------------------

Okay, seems like there are plenty of other good recommendations for the documentaries too, so the number stands expanded to TEN.

These are the finalised choices :-

100 Years of Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0166940/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1996)
A History of Horror with Mark Gatiss (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1738321/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (2010)
American Grindhouse (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1307861/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (2010)
The American Nightmare (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0259182/?ref_=fn_al_tt_4) (2000)
Flesh and Blood: The Hammer Heritage of Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0199528/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1994)
Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0489062/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (2006)
It Conquered Hollywood! The Story of American International Pictures (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0280780/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (2001)
Nightmares in Red, White and Blue: The Evolution of the American Horror Film (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1337117/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (2009)
Ray Harryhausen: Special Effects Titan (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1839590/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (2011)
Universal Horror (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0214247/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1) (1998)


Thank you to everyone for chipping in with their thoughts.

[_____V_____]

Okay, we have finalised through the 00s, and these are our final choices:-


IN THE CUT

Jeepers Creepers (2001) - 6
Let the Right One In (2008) - 6
Shaun of the Dead (2004) - 6
The Ring (2002) - 6

[REC] (2007) - 5
28 Days Later (2002) - 5
Dog Soldiers (2002) - 5
Paranormal Activity (2007) - 5
Saw (2004) - 5
Signs (2002) - 5

A Tale of Two Sisters (2003) - 4
American Psycho (2000) - 4
Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (2006) - 4
The Cabin In The Woods (2011) - 4
The Descent (2005) - 4
The Mist (2007) - 4
The Others (2001) - 4

Cloverfield (2008) - 3
May (2002) - 3
Shutter (2004) - 3

Frailty (2001) - 2

Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

Ginger Snaps (2000) - 3 (backed by neverending, seconded by metternich1815, hammerfan, Sculpt, realdealblues)
Greedy Guts aka Little Otik aka Otesanek (2000) (backed by Straker, seconded by [i]Sculpt, The Villain, fortunato, Giganticface)

---------------------------------------------------------------

[I]HONORABLE MENTIONS

The Devil's Backbone (2001) - 4 (backed by neverending, seconded by Straker, fortunato, The Villain)
Battle Royale (2000) - 3 (backed by The Villain, seconded by neverending, Straker) {Giganticface*}
The Host aka Gwoemul (2006) - 3 (backed by The Villain) {Straker*, Sculpt*, Giganticface*}
Inside aka À l'intérieur (2007) - 2 (backed by Giganticface, seconded by neverending, Straker) {The Villain*, Sculpt*}
Hard Candy (2005) (backed by neverending, seconded by The Villain, metternich1815, Straker) {Sculpt*}
The Orphanage (2007) (backed by The Villain, seconded by hammerfan, metternich1815, Sculpt)




DEBATABLE

Prometheus (2012) - 4 (backed by natedog722, seconded by tiberius) (-1)



MINORITY

Dawn of the Dead (2004) - 3 (backed by Kandarian Demon)
Dead Silence (2007) - 3 (backed by natedog722, seconded by Kandarian Demon)
Diary of the Dead (2007) - 3 (backed by metternich1815, seconded by tiberius)
Final Destination (2000) - 3 (backed by metternich1815, seconded by natedog722, realdealblues, Kandarian Demon, tiberius) (-2)
Hatchet (2006) - 3 (backed by Kandarian Demon)
Session 9 (2001) - 3 (backed by Giganticface, seconded by hammerfan)
The Strangers (2008) - 3 (backed by natedog722)


30 Days of Night (2007) - 2 (backed by natedog722, seconded by hammerfan)
Bubba Ho-Tep (2002) - 2 (backed by Straker, seconded by realdeablues, Kandarian Demon) (-1)
Constantine (2005) - 2 (backed by Sculpt)
Dagon (2001) - 2 (backed by Kandarian Demon)
Daybreakers (2009) - 2 (backed by Sculpt)
Feast (2005) - 2 (backed by realdealblues)
Fido (2006) - 2 (backed by realdealblues)
Grindhouse (2007) - 2 (backed by metternich1815)
Hostel (2005) - 2 (backed by The Villain, seconded by realdealblues) (-1)
House of the Devil (2009) - 2
Ju-on (2002) - 2 (backed by Kandarian Demon)
Martyrs (2008) - 2 (backed by Giganticface)
Oldboy (2003) - 2 (backed by neverending, seconded by Giganticface) {Sculpt*}
Pulse aka (Kairo) (2001) - 2 (backed by neverending, seconded by Straker) {Sculpt*}
Splinter (2008) - 2 (backed by natedog722)
The Devil Inside (2012) - 2 (backed by metternich1815)
The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005) - 2 (backed by natedog722, seconded by Kandarian Demon)
The Hills Have Eyes (2006) - 2 (backed by realdealblues)
The Signal (2007) - 2 (backed by realdealblues)
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003) - 2 (backed by natedog722)
Thir13en Ghosts (2001) - 2 (backed by realdealblues, seconded by Kandarian Demon, tiberius) (-2)



SINGLE VOTES TO

An American Haunting (2005)
1408 (2007)
28 Weeks Later (2007)
Antichrist (2009)
Apollo 18 (2011)
AVP: Alien Vs. Predator (2004)
AVPR - Aliens versus Predator: Requiem (2007)
Beneath Still Waters (2005)
Black Sheep (2006)
Black Swan (2010) (backed by Giganticface, seconded by Sculpt)
Blade II (2002)
Boogeymen: The Killer Compilation (2001)
Borderland (2007)
Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001)
Cabin Fever (2002)
Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant (2009)
Darkness Falls (2003)
Dead Birds (2004)
Dead Snow (2009)
Devil (2010)
Disturbia (2007) (backed by Sculpt)
Drag Me To Hell (2009)
FeardotCom (2002)
Final Destination 2 (2003)
Freddy vs. Jason (2003)
Fright Night (2011) (backed by realdealblues)
Frontier(s) (2007) (backed by neverending)
Ghost Ship (2002)
Godzilla: Final Wars (2004) (backed by Sculpt)
Grave Encounters (2011)
High Tension aka Haute Tension (2005) (backed by metternich1815, seconded by Giganticface)
Home Movie (2008) (backed by neverending)
Hostel: Part II (2007)
House of 1000 Corpses (2003) (backed by metternich1815)
I am Legend (2007)
Identity (2003)
Ils aka Them (2006) (backed by neverending)
John Dies at the End (2012) (backed by Sculpt)
Julia's Eyes (2010) (backed by The Villain)
Ju-on: The Grudge 2 (2003)
Land of the Dead (2005) (backed by realdealblues)
Legion (2010)
Let Me In (2010)
Lovely Molly (2011)
Man-Thing (2005)
Mirrors (2008)
Mother of Tears (2007)
Mum & Dad (2008) (backed by neverending)
My Bloody Valentine (2009)
My Name Is Bruce (2007)
Chakushin Ari aka One Missed Call (2003)
Paranormal Activity 3 (2011)
Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010) (backed by The Villain, seconded by hammerfan)
Red Dragon (2002)
Red Riding Hood (2011)
Resident Evil (2002)
Sauna (2008)
Shadow of the Vampire (2000) (backed by Straker, seconded by The Villain) (-1)
Silk (2006)
Sinister (2012)
The Amityville Horror (2005)
The Butterfly Effect (2004) (backed by Sculpt)
The Cell (2000) (backed by Sculpt)
The Daisy Chain (2008)
The Fog (2005)
The Forgotten (2004)
The Haunted Mansion (2003)
The Haunting in Connecticut (2009)
The Messengers (2007)
The Mothman Prophecies (2002)
The Poughkeepsie Tapes (2007) (backed by The Villain)
The Revenant (2009)
The Ruins (2008)
The Skeleton Key (2005)
The X Files: I Want to Believe (2008)
Thirst aka Bakjwi (2009) (backed by Straker)
Three... Extremes (2004)
Trick 'r Treat (2009)
Trollhunter (2010) (backed by The Villain)
Tucker and Dale Vs Evil (2010)
Underworld (2003)
Vacancy (2007) (backed by Sculpt)
Venom (2005)
Versus (2000)
Zombieland (2009) (backed by realdealblues)


SPECIAL SECTION - REST OF THE GIANT MONSTER FILMS OF THE 00s :-

2-Headed Shark Attack 2012
Behemoth 2010
Big Man Japan 2007
Boa vs. Python 2004
Deep Sea Beast Reigo 2005
D-War 2007
Eight Legged Freaks 2002
Gamera the Brave 2006
Garuda 2004
Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla 2002
Godzilla vs. Megaguirus 2000
Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack 2001
Godzilla: Tokyo S.O.S. 2003
John Carter 2012
Journey 2: The Mysterious Island 2012
Journey to the Center of the Earth 2008
Jurassic Park III 2001
King Kong 2005
Mega Python vs. Gatoroid 2011
Mega Shark Versus Crocosaurus 2010
Mega Shark Versus Giant Octopus 2009
Mongolian Death Worm 2010
Monsters 2010
Negadon: The Monster from Mars 2005
Sharktopus 2010
Spiders 2000
Super 8 2011
The Attack of the Giant Moussaka 2000
The Monster X Strikes Back/Attack the G8 Summit 2008
The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep 2007
Tremors 3: Back to Perfection 2001
Tremors 4: The Legend Begins 2004
Ultraman the Next 2004


{*} = Support for Honorable Mentions



And so, we pull the curtains down on the discussions/debate in finalising the films for our mega-compilation. I will start work on it by tonight so that we can have the sticky up by Sunday at the latest.

Big thanks to each and everyone of you who chipped in with their thoughts at various points of the project. Be proud that you were a part of the decision-making process of a HUGE project's thought processes whose impact will stay with the present generation and the coming ones as the definitive guide for all things related to horror films.

Ciao!

Catch you all soon with the mega-compilation sticky and further instructions on blurbs for the films.

[Sculpt]

Quoting myself from the previous page (since it seems like you are hellbent upon not reading my previous replies)
I did read that you didn't want docs about specific horror films for the 5 docs. But after the suggestion about expanding the doc section, I suggested something new. If you read my prior post (#1340), in the middle paragraph I specified: if we were to expand the documentary section, to include any docs in the horror genre, without restricting ourselves to docs about 'all horror films', then those were my recommendations for that wider inclusion.

V, thanks for all the work you did! Excellent job with hosting, completing the list, and putting up with all of us! I think we have a great "100 Years of Horror" compilation!

[_____V_____]

Thanks, Sculpt.

Pored through this thread all day (from 4 PM in the afternoon till now, which is 30 minutes past midnight) from the beginning and went through all the previous 1347 posts and shortlisted 38 films for the "HDC Members Specially Recommend..." section of the sticky.

I'll prune 3 films from the lot with the least-voiced support and finalise the 35.

I won't name them in this post, but I'll post the number of recommendations from individual members...

Sculpt leads with 11 recs (one shared with Kandarian Demon),
Giganticface is second with 8 recs (two shared with metternich1815),
Straker is third with 6 recs,
metternich1815 is joint fourth with 4 recs (two shared with Giganticface),
Neverending is joint fourth with 4 recs (one shared with Kandarian Demon),
The Villain is joint fifth with 2 recs,
Kandarian Demon is joint fifth with 2 recs (one shared with neverending, one with Sculpt), and
Roshiq is sixth (and last) with 1 rec.

Expect a call for blurbs once the Sticky is up.

Cheers! I am off to get some sleep. Feeling totally fatigued right now.

Work on the Sticky will start sometime tomorrow. I can't promise, but will definitely try my best to get it up by Sunday.

[_____V_____]

The official compilation thread, now stickied, is up and running at this link -
http://www.horror.com/forum/showthread.php?t=63436.

This thread is hereby closed.