Image via Wikipedia1. The Exorcist- Based loosely on a true story of an actual exorcism, The Exorcist is a movie not for the faint of heart. When the movie first aired in the 70's, audience members ran out of the cinemas in droves. The haunting images of a little girl spewing forth green sputum left many shaken and perhaps encouraged many to go back to church. This movie holds its ground in the scariest category, and to this day, very few if any newer movies can top its ability to scare Heaven back into you. This movie was a skilled representation of the book The Exorcist, written by William Peter Blatty. None can argue that young Linda Blair did an amazing job, as did Max Von Sydow's riveting performance as father Merrin.2. The Omen- This is yet another movie that causes its audience to re-examine their beliefs in a higher power. The haunting chants in the background, the nanny swinging lifelessly from the window at little Damien's birthday party are enough to make you say a prayer or two. The movie overall is well done, but bypass the most recent remake and go for the one with Gregory Peck instead. You wont be disappointed. The freakish "accidental" deaths, the scary "devil dog" and the creepy little Damien character all help paint the picture of a movie that has the ability to make you at least want to go to Sunday mass, and perhaps confess something, anything..even if you aren't catholic. Can I get a "hail Mary" anyone?
3. The Others- This movie deals with a mother and two children caught between worlds and it is a real twister for those who haven't seen it yet. It's eery settings, creepy pale children, and an a staff of servants that are a less than lively bunch will keep you in suspense and watching until the creepy end. It also brings up a curious and morose part of our past. Death Portraits. Many may not be aware of this, but there was a time when it was popular to take pictures of our deceased loved ones, sometimes they were propped up on chairs as if still alive. Due to the fact many people did not have pictures taken a long time ago, having a death portrait of a loved one that passed away was the last and only memory families had. In some cases, the photographer was called before a loved one had actually died but was still on the death bed. Families would dress them up and get one last picture before they passed. Creepy, huh?
4. The Shining- It all starts out innocent enough, Jack Nicholson is a writer in need of a retreat far away from his home to focus writing on his novel. I can only hope it is better than Love at the Speed of Light, but that's another story. Early in the movie you get a glimpse into something odd going on with this family. You have the scary thin as a rail wife, a little kid that needs a hair cut, and the dad who, well for all intents and purposes, looks a little "off". Through the visit of an at home therapist, (hey those must have been the good old days when a therapist comes to your home).. you hear a few disturbing family dynamics early in the movie. Apparently "dad" played by Jack Nicholson has an anger management and drinking problem, while "mom" played by Shelley Duvall seemingly doesn't see a problem with the fact that her husband pulled their child's arm out of it's socket. All the while this little child, played by, who cares..talks to his finger. So it makes perfect sense this family would all go stay at a huge hotel that is being shut down for the winter. After all who is more qualified than a out of work teacher and a housewife to manage The Overlook Hotel during the "off" season. Months of isolation, and only one family member with a hobby surely will be a fun time had by all, right? This movie is just plain good entertainment. It has creepy scenes that make no sense, and Jack Nicholson does a fine job playing a mad man, but doesn't he always? Definitely worth the watch if you haven't seen it yet.
5. Silent Hill- Those familiar with the video game will find this story doesn't quite jive with the one on the game. That being said, it still has the flavor of the game and does deliver all the disturbing elements you've come to love and enjoy from the game. Old "Pyramid Head" is a terrifying force in this movie, albeit for a moment. The music is haunting and the story is twisted, and puzzling until you finally figure out what the deal is. Not one to give away all the secrets and plots, you will just have to see this if you haven't already. It's not for everyone, but for those that love scary paranormal movies, this should not disappoint.
