Much like movies such as Creepshow, this anthology of ghoulish holiday tales presents a different side of horror/comedy we don't see very often. From the opening to closing scenes, we are throw into a world of humour, scares and guts. Even the opening credits have that horror anthology vibe, almost like the film is an adaption of a comic book series. Although given that it was produced by Bryan Singer, that's almost to easy to make a joke about. And yet I bet you haven't even heard of this cult classic. Yes, it's only several years old and I already think it's got dedicated niche market.
To go into detail about what make's the film so intrinsic and entertaining would be reveal great twist after good twist after mediocre twist (mediocre being the school bus massacre tale). Well here's what I can tell you, as it can get kind of confusing sometimes and not everything's well explained. Following four members of a small town community and the people they hang around with, we are treated to the four classic Halloween traditions turned right on their heads.
One deals with a group of kids collecting pumpkins for a memorial sight. This is where the sight of a mass murder took place, when a bus of mentally disabled children are trapped in a bus and plummet into a lake. Years later, pumpkins are set up around the perimeter, one for each lost soul, to keep them from returning. This story is creative and certainly relatable to those of us caught on the wrong side of a Halloween prank. But, as I said, te twist is kind of predictable and the kids are kind of a token troupe. But it's got some great build up and a very creepy story to help back it.
Another deals with that annoying parents rule "Always check each piece of candy". Yeah right, like each piece of candy corn hides a razor blade beneath the sugar. But after seeing this I never want to eat another piece of candy ever again...starting tommorow. What really chills me to the bone, however, is Dylan Baker who balances being a total dweeb and being a really sick bastard. I mean, he just sounds like Satan when he whispers "Happy Halloween". This twist will break your neck from the amount of double takes you need.
My personal favorite is Surprise party, in which Laurie, a sweet girl who just wants to find that special someone for her magic moment, is on the prowl for tonight's "prey". Little does she know, someone has marked her as his prey. This segment is my favorite for one reason, well OK two. One is Anna Paquin of True Blood/X-Men fame. Se fits the role real well, especially near the end, but not for reasons you would think. The other reason is the best twist since I saw dead people the other day. I would give you a hint what it might be, but I don't think even the movie was subtle enough. Plus I gotta say this, that number Anna is wearing...dayum! Not to mention the final scene which will have every male audience member thinking..."I have got the weirdest boner right now".
The last story is probably my least favorite, but, again, not bad! Old man Whithers (he probably has a proper name, but I'm just gonna call him that), is holed up at home, essentially the Scrooge for Halloween. He hates the decorations, the treats and the tricksters. But tonight he might just get more than a ghostly visitor. Brian Cox (Dr Lecter, not the physics professor) is HILARIOUS as the grouchy old man. And to think, this guy did Shakespeare. Also we find out who the mysterious Sam is! Oh, you don't know what I'm talking about, then perhaps I should elaborate.
The entire film plays out like Pulp Fiction does, out of order and interjecting into each story. We will see characters interrupt other characters stories and later we see that interruption in their own. The unifying factor for all stories is Sam, burlap sack/pajama wearing spook who will appear at the climax or build up to the climax of each story.
Now remember, when watching this movie, take notes for what to do on Halloween night. Check each piece of candy, be wary of those in costume, keep that pumpkin lit until the candle burns out and always give a treat, unless you want Sam to play a trick. A perfect film for those who wish to get into the holiday spirit, start off their movie marathon or not want anything to disturbing for the night.
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