As it’s October, I thought it would be a great time to recommend some spooky season media. This is anything from movies to books to games. Not all of them are true horror, but they are definitely spooky.
Movies:
Terrifier trilogy:
The Terrifier Trilogy is a gory slasher about Art the Clown. This killer clown doesn’t talk—but says a lot without speaking. The gore is also done just right! It’s all about him and all the ways he can kill. I would say this isn’t for the faint-hearted, as there are gruesome killings and torture. If you can handle it, I would recommend it to you for a good laugh. Do not take this seriously at all, and the enjoyment will come.
Obsession:
Obsession has been people’s obsession lately! It is the horror of this year. I personally haven’t watched it yet, but HMV has reviewed the film and said:
“Curry Barker’s feature-film debut, and what a debut! It is an intense and unnervingly psychological horror that rides the line perfectly between genuinely creepy and violent outbursts, balanced with well-timed, tension-popping gags.”
Beetlejuice and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice:
Don’t say each movie’s titles straight after each other. He will be summoned! This classic horror movie (and its sequel) is worth watching at least once for fans of horror. It’s ideal for spooky season as it brings death to life. If you can also catch it at London’s West End, I would recommend that too!
Books:
Coraline, Neil Gaiman:
This short and sweet book follows young Coraline, whose family moves into a new house. She discovers a mysterious locked door—and what lies beyond is both strange and dangerous. Curious? It certainly is curious. If you read the book over watching the movie, you can feel more terror. Through the eyes of a child, everything is much darker.
Misery, Stephen King:
What makes this book so scary is that it can happen in real life. Hardcore fans are a little too obsessive, and Annie Wilkes takes it to the extreme. Personally, I prefer the book over the movie, as it is a lot worse in all the good ways. The text does explore the mindfuck that can be the presence of Annie. I feel like this is the book for people who prefer thrillers.
Terrifier 2, Tim Waggoner:
This is the novelization of the second Terrifier film. Even if you have never watched the film, I would recommend this book! It takes the twists and turns of the big screen and turns them into a silky-smooth written story. You can actually feel what goes through Art’s mind as he murders. That’s insane! It is ideal for this month if you love being immersed in your favourite horror stories.
TV series
Stranger Things:
I know I’m talking even after the last season—but for the first season or two, it is THE horror series. The writing and cinematography are astonishing. The story hasn’t gotten bloated either, so it feels like a grounded ’80s horror. If you like spooky without the macabre, it is still worth watching once. This could have been the greatest series ever, and I think you need to know why.
Wednesday:
Jenna Ortega brings Wednesday Addams to life so well. Her deadpan delivery and introverted demeanour make the character so well acted. I think anything to do with the Addams family is worth the watch. If, like me, you watched the movies as a kid, I would recommend it, as it is a great modern adaptation.
The League of Gentlemen:
The League of Gentlemen is a dark comedy based in a small town in England. We get to see many weird and creepy people who do strange things. I think this is a good choice for a Halloween watch, as it provides creepy vibes, especially with Papa Lazarou.
Games:
Five Nights At Freddy’s series:
This was my first horror series, so I’m biased when I say it’s the best. If you like 2D games—the first four are for you. If you like to explore—Security Breach is for you. If you like linear stories—Sister Location is for you. I would recommend the series this month, as it has horror for all tastes and likes.
The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan
If you want horror that’s intense, cinematic, and full of suspense, Man of Medan provides it for you. The story has supernatural elements and a boat that comes alive! Every playthrough is also different, which sets it apart from the rest of my suggestions. There are a lot of choices you can make, and they actually make a difference in the playthrough, so I would recommend doing it a few times.
Halloween Puzzle:
Halloween Puzzle is a free game on PlayStation that is very simple. All you need to do is solve some puzzles that are Halloween-themed! It is also an easy platinum trophy for anyone that goes for them. I don’t think you have to ask how this is spooky!
No matter what kind of spooky vibe you’re after—whether it’s curling up with a book, watching a creepy movie, getting lost in a game, or binging a show—there’s plenty to dive into this October. Spooky season only comes once a year, so make the most of it and enjoy the chills in whatever way suits you best!
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