Reading Complex

Ringing in the Season!

2010-12-09T16:21:00.000-05:00

The awesome blog design is by Christina C. at Lone Moon Sketch Journal! Thank you!

I hope to post some new reviews for this merry time of year. I will let everyone know as soon as I do!

My Hallowe'en Guide to Cartoons

2010-10-27T08:00:00.005-04:00

When I was much younger, I used to watch several of these cartoons when I came home from school -- right before my candy adventures with friends and family. It's hard to find and purchase some of these Hallowe'en specials due to their age, but if you are able to obtain a copy, they will be an added treasure in your holiday collection.

Cartoons and Animated Specials

Disney's Halloween Treat (1982) - In kindergarten (yes, that long ago), I came home from school and this special became a staple to my Hallowe'en traditions. A long time ago we had a copy of it on VHS, but it has been lost for over a decade now. From my recollection, the Disney Channel would air this on Hallowe'en Day for the youngsters. The special played clips from older Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Pluto cartoons. Again, this was before Disney turned to the dark side. The little ghouls will love this special (and so will the big kids who remember it)!

Donald Duck's Treat or Treat (1952) - I believe it's part of the Disney's Halloween Treat, but it's one of my favorite cartoons. Donald Duck's nephews come to trick-or-treat at their uncle's house, but they seem to unable to retrieve any treats. A witch and a perky broom come to the little ducks aid! It's a short film and a cute one, at that.
Garfield's Halloween Adventure (1985) - I watch this every Hallowe'en! If you don't already know the lasagna eating cat, this is a perfect introduction to this animated character. Gafield wants candy, candy, candy, candy! He dsesses up as a pirate and drags Odie, the dog, through the streets to obtain is sugary treasure. Based off of the book Garfield in Disguise, you'll definitely get a kick out of this musical special! I also read an hilarious review by X-Entertainment (refer here), which gives a comical in-depth review about Garfield's Halloween Adventure.
Halloween is Grinch Night! (1977) - Another favorite! We all know about how the Grinch stole Christmas, but did you know that he had his own special night where he frightens the inhabitants of Whoville? The Whoville citizens lock up their homes on this one, terrifying night when the Sour-Sweet wind blows! However, Euchariah isn't scared! He tries to stall the Grinch in the mountains to protect the Whos. In 1977, the special received an Outstanding Animated Program Emmy Award. Sing along with the Grinch and the Whos this Hallowe'en!
It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! (1966) - This is a Hallowe'en classic and if you haven't seen it before, you need to. Linus believes in the Great Pumpkin, a holiday figure who would be more popular if he had some publicity. As long as you sit in the pumpkin patch on Hallowe'en night, the Great Pumpkin may grace you with presence and some gifts. While most of Charlie Brown's friends believe Linus to be hokey, Sally waits with Linus in the pumpkin patch. Certainly, this is a Hallowe'en staple that my whole family watches every year and you will, too! It's a shame that this is the only animated program they air during Hallowe'en primetime.
Raggedy Ann and Andy and The Pumpkin Who Couldn't Smile (1979) - Lost the shadows of time, I believe this animated special should be included still in Hallowe'en tv programming. Who can forget Raggedy Ann and Andy? I love this holiday animated feature! Raggedy Ann and Andy bring together a child and a abandoned pumpkin on Hallowe'en night. Don't fear Aunt Agatha, she may surprise you. if you can find a copy of it, watch it this Hallowe'en.
South Park: Halloween Specials (1997 - 2006) - If you are one for adult humor, you will find South Park's Halloween Specials to satisfy your need for ghoulish comedy. "Pinkeye (1997)," "Spookyfish (1998)," "Korn's Groovy Ghost Pirate Mystery (1999)," and "Hell On Earth (2006)" are awesome episodes that take Stan, Cartman, Kyle, Kenny, and the town of South Park through some strange, creepy adventures. Of course, it's great to watch after the trick-or-treaters turn in for the night and the grown-ups begin their Hallowe'en parties. Reminisce with early South Park and laugh your way through Hallowe'en.

King of the Hill: "Hilloween" S2E4 (1996) - One of the funniest Hallowe'en animated episodes. Hank wants Bobby, his son, to experience the same fantastic Hallowe'en extravagance as he once did. So Hank, Bill, Dale, and Boomhauer build a haunted house at the middle school. Things go haywire when Junie Harper, an overly opinionated church member, tries to rid of Hallowe'en -- telling the youngsters and teens that it's a Satanist holiday. Hank Hill has none of this! Fun to watch with friends during you Hallowe'en festivities.

The Halloween Tree (1993) - Based off of Ray Bradbury's novel The Halloween Tree, Cartoon Network this animated special in the early 90s. Bradbury even narrates the story! Four children, Tom, Jenny, Ralph, and Wally, wait for their dear friend Pipkin to complete their Hallowe'en Night, yet he never shows. They think he may be pulling a prank on him so they go to the edge of town to continue their tricks and treats. On their way, they notice that Pip's house is bare and dark. An omniscient ambulance waits curiously in the shadows. The four friends take a shortcut to the hospital, after the ambulance recedes into the night. Will Pip be alright to enjoy this Hallowe'en? Great for all ages, though it may seem scary to the very little ones. The made-for-TV movie follows the traditions and history of Hallowe'en.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949) - When Disney came out with their animated version if Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, they really did a superb job scaring the life out of me! Bing Crosby voices Ichabod Crane. Irving's ghost story is an American Classic and it's become a favorite in my Hallowe'en collection. The story has all the elements of greatness: romance, rivalry, and supernatural occurences -- Disney really recaptures such eerieness with a family-friendly rendition.

The Simpsons: Tree House of Horror (1990 - 2010) - Of course, there is Tree House of Horror, which I absolutely love and enjoy. There are so many episodes, it is hard to recount each Simpson moment, but I try to rewatch all of them come this time of year. They used to sell a Tree House of Horror compliation, but I suppose it was hard to keep up with the Simpsons series since its an ongoing program. Although I wasn't allowed to view The Simpsons as a child, I am glad I went ahead and discovered them in high school (I know, it's weird).

Witch's Night Out (1978) - One of the rarest animated Hallowe'en specials to grab a copy that is not an extremely expensive VHS! To my knowledge, they have not released it to DVD yet. Though it aired on NBC, it was created in Canada. Tender and Small, two children who want to go to the Hallowe'en party at an abandoned mansion, encounter a witch who turns them into a werewolf and ghost. She even transforms their babysitter, Bazooey, into a Frankenstein monster! However, an angry mob appears when they uncover the monsters in the town. This movie encourages that we embrace the true spirit of Hallowe'en -- having fun. For the kids and the kids-at-heart, you will enjoy this unique cartoon.

My Hallowe'en Guide to Local Attractions

2010-10-20T22:42:00.002-04:00

Local Attractions

Since I live around the greater Philadelphia region, here are some great attractions to visit during October.

Pennsylvania -

Valley of Fear and The Original Haunted Hayride - Feasterville - My friend is an actual participant in this year's Valley of Fear. It has awesome reviews about the realistic make-up and frightening costumes. They have three haunted attractions: a haunted hayride, two haunted house tour, and a walk through forest maze. They also have a Frightful Family Admission Pack (four all events tickets for the price of three). Check out their website for more information.
Terror Behind the Walls - Eastern State Penitentiary - Philadelphia - I am going here for the first time next week! Maybe I'll see you there! This is supposed to be crazily scary. Legends about the Eastern State include several murderers that still haunt the jail including the infamous Al Capone. They also have daytime prison tours for those who don't like haunted houses, but love local history.
Dracula's Ball - Philadelphia - My friends go to Dracula's Ball every year and every year, they come back bragging about how they have an incredible time. This October 30th, Shampoo will hold their annual ball. All ages welcome. Great DJs, awesome bands, and other wonderful entertainers participate in this event. This year's live performances include Red This Ever and Seraphim. FAQs and pricing are included on their official website. Stay out late this Mischief Night and have a fantastic time at Dracula's Ball.
Bates Motel - Glen Mills - My college friends would return from the Bates Motel scared yet, satisfied. Based off of Hollywood's most fearful movies, the Bates Motel brings them to life in this high-tech attraction. Although the Bates Motel is the main show, they also feature a haunted hayride and corn maze. One of the best haunts in the area; feel free to check them out.
Brat Productions - Halloween Performances - Philadelphia Last year I saw Haunted Poe and I was so impressed, I recommend Brat Productions Hallowe'en inspired performances to every person I encounter. For October 2010, Brat Productions will be staging Stephen King's Carrie, but with a comic and musical twist! They encourage those interested to come dressed in PROM ATTIRE! You may check out reviews and previews on their official website. Get your ticket before the sell out!

New Jersey -

Indian Acres Tree Farm - Haunted Attractions - Medford - Indian Acres adds more exciting attractions each year. They have a haunted cornfield, a graveyard, and a terrifying hayride. Attractions for the little kiddies include pumpkin picking, bouncy playground, wagon rides, and much more. They also have great group rates.
The Witches Ball - Mount Holly - Last year, we planned to go to The Witches Ball since Hallowe'en was on a Saturday. This year, they planned the event earlier (a surprise by some). I hear rave reviews about this event and how much fun it is. You must be 21 to enter and decked in costume attire. There is a costume contest, music, dancing, and even a movie showing. Great for people who love masquerading!
Psycho Trail - Lumberton - Right in the heart of Lumberton sits a creepy trail that only weirdos dare to tread. Free parking included on site. You are lead through four horrifying attractions and on certain dates during October. If you go to the website, under the Events section you will find information about special rates including a schedule of exciting visits by a ghost research society and live bands!
Halloween Parade - Medford - On Mischief Night, visit Medford and their Hallowe'en lights! When I was little, I would go to this event every year with my family and it was magical. Sponsored by the Medford-Vincentown Rotary, the parade starts around 7:00 pm and the route follows down Main Street. The parade is approximately 2h30 long (judging by last years itinerary). The parade includes individual marchers, group marches, floats, antique cars, fire trucks, and bands from around the area. Make this Mischief Night fun by visiting Medford's Halloween Parade!
Johnson's Corner Farm - Medford - For every age! Pumpkin picking, apple picking, corn mazes, apple cider donuts, and apple cider slushies! A fun time by all. They even have a petting farm. Reasonable prices and great group rates! Check them out this October.
Springdale Farms - Cherry Hill - Corn Mazes, pumpkin picking hayrides, perfect pies, and wonderful Hallowe'en decorations! Our school would participate on an evening hayride and a bonfire for s'mores. Great place to bring the children!
Night of Terror - Mullica Hill - My friend goes to Creamy Acres every year to experience Night of Terror. Voted Best Haunted Attraction the last five years by People's Choice, this place is highly recommended for those who crave terror's rush. They have six attractions frightful attractions including a haunted hayride and corn maze. You will definitely experience your money's worth while visiting Night of Terror at Creamy Acres.
Prison Haunt - Mount Holly - Made famous by SyFys Ghost Hunters, the Mount Holly's Historical County Prison will be holding their annual Haunted Prison attraction. Each night they will have ghost researchers on site. Visit this famous prison and check out their website to see their upcoming special events!

Databases for Festivals and Haunted Houses:

Festivals by State and Month

Haunted World

Check out to see if your state has any hauntings! Shadowlands Haunted Places Index

My Hallowe'en Guide to Old Movies

2010-10-03T23:59:00.000-04:00

Black and Whites and Other Old Movies (in no particular order)

Not to sound preachy, but I do feel some older movies are under-appreciated by our youth. More than ten years ago, popular television stations would broadcast these movies during prime-time. Now, we have stations like Turner Classic Movies that resurrects and restores these classics. The AMC Channel shows more popular gore flicks, while TCM goes into obscure, and even silent, films (sidenote: AMC used to be that way, but that was long ago before the commercials). Older films are like fine wine, you just need to know where to look:

Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) - Starring Carey Grant, Priscilla Lane, Raymond Massey, and Peter Lorre. This movie was an adaptation of Joseph Kesselring's play. Mortimer Brewster, a sour drama critic, marries the girl of his dreams on Halloween night. When he comes home to tell his aunts the wonderful news, he learns they have been poisoning their tenants. This is a wonderful comedy that everyone will enjoy. Carey Grant's performance is phenomenal!

Bell, Book and Candle (1958) - Starring Jimmy Stewart (see Vertigo), Kim Novac (see Vertigo), Jack Lemmon (Some Like It Hot), and Elsa Lancaster (Mary Poppins). First opened as a play in 1950, this movie takes place in Greenwich Village where a modern witch who initially casts a lovespell on a customer and then, falls in-love with him. I saw this film on TCM while I was sick. I am so glad they televised it! It's an adorable story with comical performances by Jack Lemmon and Elsa Lancaster! If you are looking for a bubbly, romantic movie -- this is the movie to watch!

Masque of the Red Death (1964) - I am a Poe enthusiast and if you want to see Edgar Allan Poe's stories performed well, anything with Vincent Price will certainly satisfy your hunger for suspense. If you never seen or enjoyed a Vincent Price (Edward Scissorhands) film, then you must begin with The Masque of the Red Death. During an epidemic, a greedy prince allows only his aristocratic friends to stay in his castle while he refuses refuge to his frightened peasants. He holds an extravagant masque (a.k.a. a costume ball) for his guests, but soon notices an unwanted stranger in their amidst. Don't judge this movie by it's date! It's really menacing. Starring Vincent Price, Hazel Court, Jane Asher, and David Weston.

House of Usher (1960) - Another Poe short story comes to life! Starring Vincent Price, Mark Damon, Myrna Fahey, and Harry Ellerbe. After Philip returns from an arduous journey, he visits the Usher house to see his love, Madeline. When Madeline and her brother, Roderick, begin to behave oddly, Philip believes it has something to do with the family's past.

The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (1966) -Starring Don Knotts (Andy Griffith Show) and Joan Staley. Luther Heggs, typesetter for the Rachel Courier Express, is asked to stay in the old Simmons mansion where the town's famous murder-suicide took place twenty years prior. Heggs becomes a local celebrity until it's inheritor tries to sue him. This is a comedy filled with temperamental ghosts and old organs. A very deserving addition to any Hallowe'en collection.

The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947) - This movie is meant for the romantics. Starring Gene Tierney and Rex Harrison (My Fair Lady). Lucy Muir moves into a seaside cottage in 1900. As she becomes settled into the house, she encounters the cottage's original owner, Captain Gregg. Mrs. Muir tries everything to cast out Captain Gregg, but he refuses to leave. They come to an agreement and later, transforms into friendship. When a love interest begins to visit, Mrs. Muir must confront her romantic feelings about the captain.

The Ghost Breakers (1940) - Starring Bob Hope. Once a play, then filmed twice as a silent, and again, remade two more times in 1940 and 1953 (starring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in Scared Stiff) -- The Ghost Breaker has gotten around in Hollywood and I suggest you watch this comedy. A radio broadcaster and a beautiful heiress become wrapped in scandal when they meet perchance in a hotel. Even at it's "scariest" moments, Hope cracks a joke and sends me laughing. Also featuring Paulette Goddard, Anthony Quinn, and Willie Best.

The Haunting (1963) - Based off of Shirley Jackson's The Haunting of Hill House and starring Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, and Russ Tamblyn (West Side Story). A doctor, trying to scientifically prove the existence of ghosts, lures a bunch of paranormal believers into a supposed haunted house. As they explore the estate, the house begins to play on their insecurities. The 1999 remake, starring Liam Neeson, Lili Taylor, Owen Wilson, and Catherine Zeta-Jones (The Haunting), is nothing like the original. This movie will surely make you question the line between the normal and the insane.

The Nanny (1965) - Now, this movie right here, made me fear babysitters, especially nannies! Later in Bette Davis' career, she began to appear in more psycho-biddy themed films like Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? and Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte (which I also recommend). The Nanny is one of her best movies, in my humble opinion, and it is downright terrifying! Nanny is in charge of Joey Fane, a boy accused of drowning his kid sister, after he returns home from a mental institution. Joey refuses to eat or sleep near Nanny because he believes Nanny is trying to kill him. Is Joey delirious or is Nanny hiding a something from the family? Don't watch this alone or with any babysitters, for that matter.

The Spiral Staircase (1945) - A slew of murders targeting women with disabilities hits the neighborhood and Mrs. Warren fears for her mute companion, Helen Capel, might be next. Mrs. Warren asks her physician to watch Helen, but when another murder takes place inside the Warren Mansion, Helen's safety becomes questionable. Starring Dorothy McGuire, George Brent, Ethel Barrymore, and Kent Smith.

The Uninvited (1944) - Stella by Starlight and Mary Meredith: two names you will never forget after watching this specific film. Not to be confused with 2009 movie, Roderick Fitzgerald and his sister, Pamela, purchase an abandoned mansion on the English coastline. Once they hear rumors about the house's history, their fascination turns into suspicion and fear. Starring Ray Milland (see Dial M For Murder), Ruth Hussey (The Philadelphia Story), Donald Crip (How Green Was My Valley), and Cornelia Otis Skinner.

Village of the Damned (1960) - On a dark and stormy night, my father sat me down and introduced me to this awesome (in it's truest form) thriller. Midwich is a little village nestled in the English countryside. The town has normal people with standard jobs who live in ordinary homes. One day, it all changes when the entire village falls victim to a mysterious sleep. Several months later, all the women capable of reproducing, bear blond haired children. Strange? Indeed. When the children begin using there vision to control the townsfolk, one man tries to stop them. Starring George Sanders (See Rebecca), Barbara Shelley, Martin Stephens, and Michael Gwynn.

Witness to Murder (1954) - This film is one of the many reasons why Barbara Stanwyck is a pro. Cheryl Draper witnesses a strangling outside her home, but no one will believe her. The police find no evidence to report the crime (not even a body). The killer stalks Cheryl, sets her up, and leaves her to question her own validity. Starring Barbara Stanwyck (Meet John Doe), George Sanders (See Rebecca), Gary Merrill, and Jesse White.

And you can't forget these Alfred Hitchcock classics:

A little bio about Alfred Hitchcock:
One of 20th Century's most renown suspense thriller directors ever. He is what other directors, like M.Night Shyamalan, try to aspire to. He was one of the first directors to manipulate the audience's emotions through the character's point of view. During film-making, he made cameo appearances (sound familiar?) that propelled him as a cultural figure. He is truly the Master of Suspense.

The Birds (1963) - Starring Tippi Hedren, Rod Taylor, Suzanne Pleshette, and Jessica Tandy. When I heard they were trying to remake this classic, I was astounded. I feel no one could top the superb performances by Tippi Hedren and Rod Taylor. Most of the other Hitchcock remakes are sub par to the originals so whoever takes this project on will have to fill the Master's shoes. Anyway, Hedren's character, Melanie Daniels, follows Mitch Brenner to Bodega Bay after he plays a little prank on her. After her arrival, the birds begin to attack the people without any probable cause. If you haven't seen it, you really should. Based off of The Birds by Daphne Du Maurier.

Vertigo (1958) - Jimmy Stewart starred in many of Hitchcock movies, but Vertigo portrays Stewart in a very different light. Back in the day, movies suggesting sex were considered riské and Hitchcock pushed the envelope in his story plots. He always found a way to make sexual innuendo tasteful (by today's standards). While pursuing a perp, a former detective develops vertigo due to a terrible fall. After much humiliation, he finally finds a gig watching a man's elusive wife who is supposedly either possessed by a dead relative or just plain mad. When the detective falls in love with his client's wife, all hell breaks loose. The beginning may seem a little slow, but it picks up quickly. Starring Jimmy Stewart, Kim Novak, and Barbara Bel Geddes.

Rear Window (1954) - I know, I am a sucker for Stewart, but he's a great actor! When L.B. Jeffries breaks his leg during an action shot, all he can do is gaze through his rear window. He watches his neighbor's daily routines, giving them quirky nicknames and commenting on their personal lives. He becomes suspicious when Mr. Thorwald's wife disappears and soon, his curiosity puts everyone he cares about in danger. Starring Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly, Wendell Corey, and Thelma Ritter. This movie is a real nail-bitter!

Rebecca (1940) - "Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again. It seemed to me I stood by the iron gate leading to the drive, and for a while I could not enter, for the way was barred to me. Then, like all dreamers, I was possessed of a sudden with supernatural powers and passed like a spirit through the barrier before me[...]." Based off of Daphne Du Maurier's suspense novel, Rebecca. Starring Sir Lawrence Olivier (Hamlet), Joan Fontaine (Jane Eyre), George Sanders, and Judith Anderson. Rebecca was on TCM during one October and I sat down with my family, expecting a dull, tiring movie. Boy, was I wrong! Joan Fontaine plays a ladies' companion vacationing in the French Riviera. One day she meets Maxim de Winter, a wealthy widower from Cornwall, and they have a whirlwind marriage. When they return to their Gothic estate in Cornwall, the new misses discovers a latent secret that leaves her suspicious of the late Rebecca de Winter. A definite movie for the ladies!

Strangers on a Train (1951) -"He does my murder, I do his."Based off of Patricia Highsmith's novel. When Bruno Antony meets his idol, professional tennis player and promising politician Guy Haines, the meeting starts off casual and fun. As soon as Bruno discusses how to create the perfect murder a criss-cross scheme (i.e. murdering the other guy's enemy), things become perilous for Haines. Strangers on a Train is a mind-wrenching film where Hitchcock experiments with black humor (refer here) and the abnormal mind. Starring Farley Granger, Ruth Roman, and Robert Walker.

Marnie (1964) -Many critics feel Marnie, starring Tippie Hedren (see The Birds) and Sean Connery (James Bond), is one of last good movies of Hitchcock's career peak. Originally, Hitchcock wanted Princess Grace (a.k.a Grace Kelly) to play the female lead but, she was unable to. Based on Winston Graham's novel, the movie is about a cool blonde, afflicted by her troubling past, who cons businesses in order to care for her ailing mother. After Rutherland's company owner catches her stealing, he blackmails the woman into marrying him. I remember that Marnie was Hedren's final movie collaboration with Hitchcock due to his controlling personality. Love this movie! Give it a shot!

Dial M For Murder (1954) - Starring Grace Kelly, Ray Milland (see The Uninvited), and Robert Cummings (Saboteur). A wealthy London woman has a brief affair with an American writer while her husband, a tennis player, is abroad. When her husband returns, he decides to end his career and dedicates his time to his lovely wife (how peculiar). Although she destroys the American writer's love letters, somehow one letter is stolen. Who is trying to blackmail her? This understated movie is filled with edge-of-the-seat suspense! Add it to your list, this October.

There are so many great, old movies and I wish I could list them all. If you have never seen a old film -- this is a great list to begin from!

My Hallowe'en Guide to Not-So-Scary Movies

2010-09-23T23:59:00.059-04:00

I am a huge Hallowe'en fanatic. It may seem pathetic, but I look forward to the foliage, the pumpkin carving, the apple picking, and the holiday's gravitas each year. As the autumn approaches, I rekindle my youth -- embracing all that bumps in the night. I would like to share my collection of ghoulish staples including books, short stories, movies, television shows, cartoons, and other spirited festivities. Each week, leading up to this enjoyable day, I will post my favorite collections.

In celebration of Alban Elved, the first day of autumn, here is my first list.

Movies

Most people I know who love Hallowe'en incorporate some type of horror film during their ritual viewing pleasure. If you ask them, Halloween 1 - 2000, Friday the 13th, Hellraiser, and A Nightmare on Elm Street top their queue. Even though these movies are modern classics, here is an array of amusing movies for those of the more squeamish kind.

Childhood and Adolescent Watched Movies (in no particular order)

Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971) -Angela Lansbury and David Tomlinson headline in this Disney Classic. I watched this movie over and over again at my grandparents' house. During the London air raids, three orphan children are taken in by a witch. There is singing, dancing, and animated cartoons! Great for the kiddies!

Beetlejuice (1988) - Another classic with Michael Keaton, Geena Davis, Alec Baldwin, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O'Hara. After dying in a tragic accident, a young ghostly couple try keep their house by frightening away its newest inhabitants. When nothing else works, they hire a "bio-exorcist" named Betelgeuse. Director, Tim Burton.

Casper (1995) - Bill Pullman, Christina Ricci, Cathy Moriarty, Eric Idle, and a guest appearance by the young Devon Sawa star in this Hollywood remake of the Casper cartoon series. Of course, Hollywood puts an interesting twist on everything -- the 100 year old spirit who falls in love with a young teenager. Have you ever noticed how the dance scene in Backstreet Boys music video "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)" resembles the Whipstaff foyer? Anyway, It has comedy, romance, and a Halloween dance; and who can forget Little Richard's rendition of "Casper the Friendly Ghost"?

Donnie Darko (2001) - A cult classic that some dislike due to its overrated storyline of the unexplained or how teenage angst overwhelms the movie's main idea. Some blame it on a young filmmaker's overzealous attempt to try to make a muddled movie meaningful. At least watch it for Frank the Rabbit! Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Maggic Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, James Duval, and Patrick Swayze. Directed by Richard Kelly.

Frankenweenie (1984) - I remember seeing this on the Disney Channel late at night. Director Tim Burton shows how the love for a family pet goes beyond the cemetery. Although Victor Frankenstein revives his beloved dog, man's best friend reeks havoc on the neighborhood. Victor must then convince his family and friends that Sparky isn't an evil mutt, but a misunderstand canine. Starring Shelley Duval, Daniel Stern, and Barret Oliver.

Ghost Story (1981) - This movie, well, is just odd and out-of-place. Although it stars one of the best, Fred Astaire, it's just a weird movie overall. If you want to watch something that is absurd, weird, and unsettling, I highly recommend Ghost Story. Starring Fred Astaire, Patricia Neal, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Melvyn Douglas, and Alice Krige. Viewer beware: confusion may ensue.

Halloweentown (1998) - Debbie Reynolds, Kimberly J. Brown, and Philip Van Dyke partake in this wacky, corny, Halloween extravaganza! If young Marnie doesn't help grandmama Aggie Cromwell stop an evil spell that tranforms the Halloweentown citizens into drab, gray beings, (pause) then the town may be lost forever!

Hocus Pocus (1993) - "Amok, amok, amok, amok!" They showed this movie to us during a Halloween themed church event. Winifred, Sarah, and Mary -- the 300 year old Sanderson sisters who needed a virgin boy to bring them back from the dead! Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, and Sean Murray (Thackery Binx!) star in this movie about three witches who make Max (a.k.a Hollywood) a believer of Salem City lore. Max needs the help of Binx (the 300 year old black cat), his sister Dani, and the Winifred's dead ex-lover, Billy, to put the sisters back in their graves. It's a shame the director didn't use Sean's voice for the movie.

Interview with the Vampire (1994) - Saw this late one night on TNT, the "non rated version." Saw it again in high school and now it's a current favorite for the Halloween play list. Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, Christian Slater, Kirsten Dunst, and Antonio Banderas star in this Anne Rice adaption of her first Vampire Chronicles novel. A journalist sits down and interviews Louis, a three-century old vampire who reveals his life story as both human and monster. This is definitely better than any Twilight Saga movie! Rice is the real queen of the vampire story (she even wrote the script for the movie)! This movie is not meant for weak-stomaches.

Mr. Boogedy (1986) and The Bride of Boogedy (1987) - Ah yes, one of my mother's favorites! Boogedy Boogedy Boo! Carleton Davis moves his wife and family to Lucifer Falls to open a new novelty shop in town. Lo and behold, the house is haunted by Widow Marion and her son, Jonathon, who are trapped by the evil likes of William Hanover (Mr. Boogedy)! The music always gave me the creeps as a kid! The sequel, The Bride of Boogedy extends the plot when Eloise, Carleton's wife, is captured by Mr. Boogedy! This was a telefilm made by Disney for ABC Sunday Night Movie. Starring Richard Masur, Mimi Kennedy, David Faustino, Benji Gregory, Kristy Swanson, and John Astin.

Practical Magic (1998) - Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Diane West, and Stockard Channing star in this lovely comedy about two very different sisters bound together by a family curse where they experience magical adventures and tribulations. I watch this movie every Hallowe'en! One of my favorites and it will be one of yours, too. Movie's songs include music by Stevie Nicks ("Crystal" and "If You Ever Did Believe..." featuring Sheryl Crow). Check out the soundtrack!

Sleepy Hollow (1999) - "The pickety witch! The pickety witch! Who has a kiss for the pickety witch?" Directed by Tim Burton. Starring Johnny Depp (of course!) and Christina Ricci. Burton takes an interesting spin on Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Ichabod Crane isn't a school teacher, but a city detective who is assigned to investigate murders occurring in Sleepy Hollow. There, he meets the vivacious Katrina, who he falls for immediately. As he delves further into the town's history, he uncovers a dark secret about the town's gentry. I've watched every version of Sleepy Hollow, from cartoon to poor television reproduction, and this movie is really good.

Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) - Another movie I saw on the old Disney Channel, before Halloweentown and Hannah Montana. Even though Ray Bradbury wanted Christopher Lee or Peter O'Toole to play the bad guy, Jonathan Pryce (Pirates of the Carribean) stars as Mr. Dark who brings his Cooger & Dark's Pandemonium Shadow Show to Green Town. The carnival arrives at midnight in the last days of October and it subdues everyone in the town. Young Will Holloway and Jim Nightshade know that this carnival is anything, but ordinary. When townsfolk begin to disappear, the two boys become suspicious and take matters into their own hands. Based off of Bradbury's novel, this movie has frightening scenes so viewers under age ten may have nightmares later.

The Addams Family (1991) - How could I forget Angelica Huston, Christopher Lloyd, and the late Raul Julia starring in this wonderful adaptation of the Addams Family? Also featuring a young Christina Ricci as Wednesday (I believe I chose her character as a Hallowe'en Costume: headless doll and all). Con artists try to swindle a strange family out of their fortune by using an outsider to act as their long lost relative. One of the best scenes in the movie include a gory, yet comedic interpretation of Hamlet. If you haven't already seen it, make Hallowe'en special by watching it this year!

The Canterville Ghost (1986) - So many wonderful eerie classics! Based off of Oscar Wilde's short story, Paul Bogart's version is my favorite! An American family moves to England to claim their inheritance: a majestic castle. Although the family's very distant cousins welcome them wholeheartedly, one cousin does not -- the late Sir Simon de Canterville. Starring John Gielgud, Ted Wass, Andrea Marcovicci, and Alyssa Milana. A great Saturday late-night movie!

The Craft (1996) - Two talented actresses in the same movie. Fairuza Bulk (see The Worst Witch) and Robin Turney (Empire Records) star in this sinister cult classic. A new girl joins group of derelict girls at a Catholic prep school. The girls begin to practice the occult, casting enchantments and hexing enemies. Things go well until the spells backfire, creating hostility within the group. Also starring Neve Campbell.

The Halloween That Almost Wasn't (1979) - "Teeny, tiny bat!" This one is hard to find anywhere! The King of Halloween Night, Count Dracula, demands his monsters to become more terrible and horrible for this year's festivities. Well, Winnie the Witch won't have it! When Dracula won't give Winnie a promotion in her duties, she threatens to resign her annual broom ride over the full moon. Will Dracula have to cancel Halloween? Lots of disco and lots of family fun! Starring Judd Hirsch, Mariette Hartley, and Henry Gibson.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - When does Tim Burton not mix the disturbing with snow and merriment? Again, a kid's classic with music by Danny Elfman. Jack Skellington tires of his pumpkin king crown and ventures into the holiday forest to find what's missing in his life. He accidentally hijacks Christmas, but with good intentions, and learns about the true meaning of Hallowe'en and Christmas. Great for either holiday!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) - Starring Richard O'Brien, Tim Curry, and Meat Loaf. Musical turned movie, I watched this a week before Hallowe'en on VH1. Brad and Janet, recently married, try to find somewhere to stay during a terrible storm. They happen upon a mansion full of sexual exploring transvestites. Time Warp is a party classic. Check out the soundtrack! Also featuring Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Patricia Quinn, and Nell Campbell.

The Watcher in the Woods (1980) - Bette Davis. Enough said. My mother rented this one night from the old Movies Unlimited down the street. I peered mostly through my fingers as I watched this one! In this awe-inspiring Disney classic, a young family moves into a little country town that has many buried secrets. When the girls begin experiencing strange things in their home, they discover a link between their house and a tragic event. Starring Bette Davis, Carroll Baker, and David McCallum (The Great Escape).

The Witches (1990) - What happens when children turn into rodents? Based off of Roald Dahl's children's book, Angelica Huston stars in this unnerving movie as the leader of the witches. An orphan boy, Luke, stays at a hotel with his grandmother. There, they discover an evil plot by a group of women having a convention. Their main objective: to eliminate all the children in the world. Luke must stop them before it's too late.

The Worst Witch (1986) - My top favorite Hallowe'en classic! I watch every year. I know the movie, inside and out. I even know every line by heart! Yes, I love it, though many really hate it (refer to this hilarious review by X-Entertainment). Starring Fairuza Bulk, Charlotte Rae, Diana Rigg, and Tim Curry, this made for T.V. movie is based on the children's series, The Worst Witch by Jillian Murphy. Love it or hate it, any kid will appreciate this silly movie after all that trick-or-treating! Mildred Hubble is the worst witch at Miss Cackle's academy. She is tormented daily by her classmates and the wicked HB (Miss Hardbroom). For the Halloween festivities, Cackle's school will be visited by the Grand Wizard, but Cackle's evil twin sister, Agatha, has plans to take over the school! There are musical numbers and terrible 80's graphics, but a fun time by all.

Trilogy of Terror (1975) - A scream to watch! I believe this was terrifying to watch in the 70s, but nowadays, it is downright funny. There are three bizarre stories that star Karen Black. I believe what makes it infinite in all it's glory is the last story about a homicidal Zuni doll. Did you know that Black contributed to the doll's design? If you love B-rated horror movies, this is definitely a must-see.

Review on The Red Queen by Phillipa Gregory

2010-09-17T13:40:00.000-04:00

Here is an excerpt from my LAS review on The Red Queen: A Novel:

"Margaret Beaufort longed to be an abbess, an educated and religious woman immersed in the work of God. Unfortunately, that would be neither God's intention nor England's plan. After marrying a man three times her age, she discovers her undeniable destiny within her son, Henry Tudor. In Phillipa Gregory's long awaited novel The Red Queen, the author reveals a spiteful woman's beginnings and certainty to claim England's throne from a usurping king."

To read more, click here for the rest of the review on Lostatsea.net.

Gregory, Phillipa. The Red Queen: A Novel. New York: Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group, 2010. Print.

Related Links:

The White Queen: A Novel (Cousins' War (Touchstone Paperback))
The Other Boleyn Girl
The Virgin's Lover (Boleyn)
The Queen's Fool: A Novel (Boleyn)
The Other Boleyn Girl (DVD)

Review on The White Queen by Phillipa Gregory

2010-09-17T13:37:00.000-04:00

Here is an excerpt from my LAS review on The White Queen: A Novel:

"Best known for her Tudor Family-inspired novels, like the best-selling The Other Boleyn Girl, Gregory revisits England during the War of the Roses, a time and place where cousins and brothers destroy each other for a chance at the throne. When Lady Elizabeth Grey of Riverses marries the York claimant king, her desire for royal life and security depends on the elimination of her adversaries, the Lancasters. Throughout the novel, Queen Elizabeth will do whatever it takes to keep her royal title, whether it's through hiding, bribing, or crafting spells. Gregory grips readers at each page, where blood, deceit, and lust are ways to resurrect validity."

To read more, click here for the rest of the review at Lostatsea.net.

Gregory, Phillipa. The White Queen: A Novel. New York: Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group, 2010. Print.

Related Links:
The Other Queen: A Novel
The Virgin's Lover (Boleyn)
The Queen's Fool: A Novel (Boleyn)
The Other Boleyn Girl (DVD)
The Other Boleyn Girl

Review on Facing Future by Dan Kois

2010-09-17T13:31:00.000-04:00

Here is an excerpt from my review on 33 1/3 Series: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's Facing Future:

"Facing Future delves into the life behind Hawaii's suppa'man whose famous ukulele-rendition medley of 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' and 'What a Wonderful World' made him an overnight sensation on the mainland. But while Kois renders an exotic backdrop to Kamakawiwo'ole's extraordinary life and enlightens readers on the album's surprising current controversies, the writing becomes a nuisance halfway through."

To read more, click here for the rest of the review on Lostatsea.net.

Kois, Dan. 33 1/3 Series: Facing Future. New York: Continuum Publishing Group, 2009. Print.

Related Links:
Facing Future
Alone in IZ World
Wonderful World