Curl Up on the Couch with Something Scary

by Olivia Underwood

With Halloween just a short time away, now is the time to stock up on Hollywood’s scariest horror films. But with so many out there, which scary movies are looking good and which ones are looking sad? Well I’m here to help with my handy-dandy pumpkin scary scale!

1 Pumpkin = Is this movie a comedy?
2 Pumpkins = Oookay, a little spooky.
3 Pumpkins = NOOOO! DON’T GO IN THERE!
4 Pumpkins = I think I just peed my pants…

Movie 1: Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho = 4 Pumpkins
This movie is a classic and a must see for all horror or suspense movie lovers. As always Hitchcock’s use of music, atmosphere, and just the right amount of gore gives viewers an enjoyable ride. This film follows the story of the strange disappearance of blonde beauty Marion from the sinister Bait’s motel. With a twisty ending and an awesome starring role played by Antony Perkins, this is one you shouldn’t watch alone.

Movie 2: Killer Clowns from Outer Space = 1 Pumpkin
Alright, I know there are many people that are deathly afraid of clowns, but this movie is simply ridiculous. The plot follows a man as he tries to save a town from the evil clowns that have crash landed their space ship nearby. Although the clown costumes are a little creepy, the fights are ridiculous, the drunken sheriff is annoying, and the acting is terrible. Not surprisingly, with a 1 Pumpkin rating, this is one you can skip.

Movie 3: The Invasion = 3 Pumpkins
This 2007 remake of the classic Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a thrilling ride of suspense with one of my favorite actresses, Nicole Kidman, as the starring role. Kidman plays a mother and a doctor who must save her son from an alien invasion of the microscopic scale. The rules of the game? Never trust anyone, never show emotion, and NEVER fall asleep. For making me look a little funny at my friends and neighbors, I give this movie three pumpkins.

Movie 4: Sleepy Hollow = 2 Pumpkins
This movie is a Tim Burton retelling of the tale of the headless horsemen. With Johnny Depp as policeman Ichabod Crane, this movie is a wonderful time but isn’t quite as scary as some. There are plenty of bloodless decapitations but I would still recommend that you give this enjoyable movie a try.