Introduction to Midnight's Cup of Sub-genres

   If you are following me on Instagram (@midhorror) you would know that I came up with a fun idea to have a cup filled with different horror sub-genres and once a week I will pick a sub-genre, without looking, and watch/review a movie in the genre. But since I am enjoying this fun little game, I have decided to change it from once a week to twice a week. I am also trying to expand my horror repertoire so I can become familiar with different sub-genres and styles.

   I especially want to expand on foreign horror, to be specific, since they are almost always more frightening than mainstream horror. But when I say foreign I do not mean Australian or British films. I want to watch foreign films in French, Spanish, German, Russian, etc.

   I hope you guys like my new idea and if you love horror like me you can also play along, just follow me on Instagram (@midhorror) and whatever sub-genre I pull out of the cup, you can either watch the same movie or one that you prefer. Just remember I am watching movies that I have not seen before; or I am at least trying to. So if you have watched a movie that I plan to see, you can change it to a movie that you have not seen too.

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!

The Strain- Graphic Novel vs. T.V. Show + Review

   Many people out there do not like it when a movie or TV show is based on a novel, and if it is a graphic novel it makes it worse because the readers already have a visual on what is going on with the novel. Personally, I love it when they are able to successfully morph a book into a movie or TV show; whether it is a young adult novel or an action-packed horror graphic novel.

   Being a fan of horror and especially vampires made it impossible for me to not watch The Strain. It is however based on a graphic novel of the same name by Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan. I have never read the novels but having marathoned and enjoyed the show, I was still very curious and skeptical afterwards on if the TV show could compare to the novels.

   After doing some research I found that there was not any legitimate websites out there where they compared the show to the novels. Fortunately it did come to my attention that Fox Horror (FX) created a site where they not only compare episodes for you but they also compare scenes that you can view by flipping the pages like an actual novel. The site features music, amazing graphics and exclusive video clips revolved around The Strain Season 1.

   It is so entertaining and something you will not find anywhere else. I urge you to check it out now. You would not want to miss this. Click the direct link here: http://bit.ly/TwoStrainsSite. Also make sure to buy season 1 of The Strain on Blu-ray and DVD now.

RATING: 5/5

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!

FX The Strain- Exclusive GIFs and Still from Season 1

   While I am marathoning The Strain I wanted to give my viewers a look at some exclusive stills and GIF’s. Hopefully this will be enough until the bigger surprise on Friday 12 am ET. It is something that I have not done before and it will be exciting for fans of The Strain; be it TV series, graphic novel or both.   

   The GIF's are especially teasing for someone wanting more. Check out both http://bit.ly/FoxHorrorStrainTakeover and http://bit.ly/TwoStrainsSite for more on The Strain. Also if you have not purchased The Strain on DVD and Blu-ray do so ASAP.

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!

Bucket List - Ouija

   Last month I posted my "Top 10 upcoming movies of 2014" so, I came up with the idea to post reviews entitled "Bucket List" because the movies that were on my list are just like a bucket list in a way, at least for a horror movie fan like me. This is my seventh most anticipated horror movie of the year.

Synopsis

   The film opens with a young Laine Morris and Debbie Galardi playing with a Ouija board in Laine's room, only to be interrupted by Laine's sister Sarah. The scene then forwards to present day, where Debbie is playing with the board by herself and is so unnerved by what she experiences that she tries to burn the board and planchette before calling Laine. Concerned, Laine comes over but is sent away by Debbie, who goes upstairs only to find the board on her bed. Her eyes turn white and she hangs herself.

My Thoughts

   A few days ago I finally got the chance to watch Ouija and I was still excited despite the mixed reviews I got from social media. But after I finished watching the film I did not feel anything; there was nothing that made me love nor hate it. I did however feel as though Ouija was very much early 90’s horror inspired. If this movie was set in the 90’s or actually filmed in the 90’s and then I watched it knowing that, then maybe I would have liked it better because it remind me of movies like Final Destination, Blair Witch Project.

    Ouija was very simple and the scares were not that scary, again if this movie was made in the 90’s it would have made more sense because the movie was mostly the audience witnessing the characters thrill and fear. The only time I saw myself getting scared was when I heard loud sound effects of screams because it was so sudden.

   Strangely, unlike most of my reviews I have mixed feelings toward Ouija so I do not know if I want to recommend it or not. So, if you like 90’s movies watch it because you will enjoy it. If you want to watch a horror movie that is new and different, do not watch this movie. Ouija is a movie that others either hate or love and unfortunately me being me I am stuck in the middle.

RATING: 2.5/5

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!

Bucket List - Horns

   Last month I posted my "Top 10 upcoming movies of 2014" so, I came up with the idea to post reviews entitled "Bucket List" because the movies that were on my list are just like a bucket list in a way, at least for a horror movie fan like me. This is my third most anticipated horror movie of the year.

Synopsis

   Horns, a supernatural thriller driven by fantasy, mystery and romance, follows Ig Perrish, the number one suspect for the violent rape and murder of his girlfriend. Hungover from a night of hard drinking, Ig awakens one morning to find horns starting to grow from his own head and soon realizes their power drives people to confess their sins and give in to their most selfish and unspeakable impulses – an effective tool in his quest to discover the true circumstances of his late girlfriend’s tragedy and for exacting revenge on her killer.

My Thoughts

   Being a fan of Daniel Radcliffe’s previous movies, it was a must for me to watch Horns; especially since various bloggers said that Horns was a “horror thriller”. Now, the one thing I want everyone to know is that Horns is nowhere near a Horror movie, it is more of a black comedy kind of thriller. Although I can see why some people might think of Horns as a Horror movie, the fact that is involves the Devil and religion is more than common in the horror world; especially within this year.

   Overall, I liked the movie, the emotions, and the characters. I may have not read the book but the movie itself was a good relaxer from the usual intense horror that I am used to. Though at some points in the movie I felt as though the dialogue became corny and cliché which was somewhat unnecessary to the synopsis of the movie, I did however enjoy the dialogue during Daniel Radcliffe’s devilish alter ego.

   I do indeed recommend Horns, not highly, but it is worth the watch if you want a break from most paranormal entity driven movies that have been released this year.

RATING: 3/5

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!

Bucket List - Grace: The Possession

   Last month I posted my "Top 10 upcoming movies of 2014" so, I came up with the idea to post reviews entitled "Bucket List" followed by the movies name because the movies on my list are just like a bucket list, at least for a horror movie fan like me. This was my second most anticipated horror movie of the year. Keep on reading or scroll down for my thoughts on Grace: The Possession.

Synopsis

   Grace: The Possession, a story told like never before through the eyes of the possessed. Alexia Fast (Jack Reacher) is Grace: a naive, beautiful, virginal college freshman trying to deal with campus culture and her outgoing new roommate. But when a terror takes over her body and unleashes chaos, Grace returns to the cold clutches of her severe grandmother (Lin Shaye) and the strict rules of the church. Haunted by the horrific death of her mother and deeply ingrained, destructive urges, she must stop the demon inside before it’s too late.

 My Thoughts

   Grace: The Possession is a horror movie that is like no other. Being introduced to a new sub-genre may not always work out for the audience or even the movie’s popularity but it worked perfectly for me. First person is a sub-genre I am not used to watching, especially in the horror industry; excluding horror video games that is.

   The director of Grace: The Possession did an amazing job with making the point of view realistic. From the difficulty of looking at the sun to the blurred vision of being intoxicated; it was all perfectly thought out. I especially liked how the movie began; it started as a regular movie and the viewer got to see who the star of the movie was, then it changes to make the viewer themselves, the star. The only other time the viewer gets to see the appearance of the star is when she is infront of a mirror; which happens quite often.

   There are a lot of plot twists within this movie and I enjoyed every bit of it. One of the biggest plot twists, in my opinion, involves the viewer; which is exciting and unexpected. Within the first ten minutes I got scared and it did not stop there. The scares were endless and it was not like your typically horror movie clichés either; they were very unique and different. In a way the scares were realistic at least for me being the viewer/star; obviously for everyone it will be different but for me it was perfect.

   Many horror movies that were released this year and even last year did not reach my expectations as a horror movie fan but Grace: The Possession did; it was a unique and new change from the clichés I am used to seeing.

   I highly recommend Grace: The Possession to all horror movies fans/enthusiasts and anyone else who is willing to watch. Especially if you are a fan of Blumhouse Productions (i.e. Sinister, Insidious,The Purge, etc.)

RATING: 10/10

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!

Top 20 Horror Movies!!!

 

1.       Jeepers Creepers (2001)

·         Trying to fall asleep will be difficult after memorizing the theme song.

 

  

2.       Chucky (Franchise) (1988-2013)

·         Gruesome sailor-mouth black comedy; all within a doll.

3.       Ginger Snaps (2000-2004)

·         Sexy, kick-ass Canadian trilogy; one the nation should be proud of. The only movies where werewolves make sense.

4.       Stay Alive (2006)

·         Movie centered on a horror video game, that actually makes sense in the movie itself.

5.       The Ring (1 & 2) (2002-2005)

·         Changes the way you take a shower. Changes that way you watch everyday T.V. No cheap scares involved.

6.       The Grudge (1 & 2) (2004-2006)

·         The sole reason why I love Japanese to English horror movies. Placed at number in that list.

7.       Silent Hill (2006-2012)

·         The choreography of the monsters is what makes Silent Hill a horror favourite.

8.       The Fourth Kind (2009)

·         Based on a true story; footage and interviews with the actual victim. All incorporated to make a personal favourite. *** Never visiting Alaska; well maybe.

9.       The Mist (2007)

·         The characters thinking process is logical and realistic, and causes the audience to relate to the situation at hand.

 10.       House of 1000 Corpses (2003)

·         Vulgar clown, babied blonde psychopath, bunny suits, and fried chicken. What more can you ask for in a movie? Pure black comedy with a hint of gruesome.

11.       Dead Silence (2007)

·         Dolls are scary to begin with. So, ventriloquist dummies have to be horrifying. Making this a sure favourite to full-time horror movie watcher.

12.   Grace (2009)

·         Miracles may turn into a curse; which is perfect for a horror movie. Now, add a baby and a baby bottle and it is the perfect plot to a great movie.

13.   Let the Right One In (2008)

·         Do not bother to watch the American version. Get the full effect by watching the original Swedish version.

14.   Sinister (2012)

·         Finding super 8 tapes may be a cliché in older horror movies but it definitely works for Sinister. Plus the footage on the tapes is the scariest part of the movie. One of my favourites from Blumhouse Productions.

15.   Paranormal Activity (2007-2014)

·         Do not worry about trying to be different and saying you hate the Paranormal Activity franchise because I tried and happily failed; and I will probably do it again for upcoming installment to the franchise.

16.   The Hills Have Eyes (2006)

Road trips, deserted areas, and mutants are all things I am afraid of; which makes this movie one worth being on the list.

17.   Orphan (2009)

·         Adopting a immigrant child is struggle in itself but adopting one that psychopath is on a whole different level. Now, the huge plot twist near the end is the reason why this movie made to this list.

18.   One Missed Call (2008)

·         Getting phone calls from someone you know and find out it is not who you think it is, is probably why I get a heart attack every time I get a prank call. The fact that the movie revolved around young adults made it easier to relate to which, in turn made it more scare.

19.   Human Centipede (2009)

·         Centipedes are one of the most disgusting insects in the world and evil German scientists are not any better; but it made for a good movie and it is on this list so, there is no complaining.

20.   Blair Witch Project (1999)

·         The first found-footage horror movie I ever saw before I even knew what found-footage was. May have caused my addiction to found-footage horror movies because of the controversy of the movie being real way back when it first released.

   Don’t let the demons bite or do, YOU FREAKS!!!