Episode 26: John Carpenter’s Halloween (1978)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%
Get ready to pull the mask off one of horror's most iconic faces as we take you through the shadow-laden streets of Haddonfield on Screams and Streams. We're not just talking jump scares and butcher knives—this episode is a full autopsy of John Carpenter's "Halloween," from Michael Myers' unnerving head tilt to Jamie Lee Curtis's unforgettable closet scene. We dissect every slash of this genre-defining classic, pondering over the peculiarities that have both charmed and bemused audiences, like Michael's surprising driving prowess and the infamous implied dog eating scene.
This is the episode where your spine will tingle as we pick apart the movie's technical wizardry, like that unforgettable POV shot that put you behind the mask of a child-turned-killer. We'll explore Carpenter's groundbreaking camera techniques that turned every corner of Haddonfield into an eerie stage for the silent terror that is Michael Myers, while also serenading your ears with a discussion of that iconic score—crafted in just three days yet haunting us for decades. And who could ignore the meticulous sound design that made Michael's breath a character of its own?
Join us as we peel back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes magic that brought "Halloween" to life, from Carpenter's initial doubts about sequels to the pressure-cooker environment of a rapid 20-day shoot. We'll also explore the strategic casting decisions and the foreshadowing inclusion of "The Thing from Another World," hinting at Carpenter's future endeavors. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a horror newbie, our macabre parlor is open, inviting you to experience the enduring allure of the film that still shapes our nightmares.
Plot Summary:
Fifteen years after murdering his sister on Halloween night 1963, Michael Myers escapes from a mental hospital and returns to the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois to kill again. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
Mike gave the film a 10. Chad gave it a 9. We placed it at 9.5 on the Watchability Scale.
Links
John Carpenter's Halloween by Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross (YouTube)
Cinefantastique Review (pg. 73)
15 Things You Didn't Know About John Carpenter's Halloween (Screen Rant)
15 Terrifying Facts About John Carpenter’s Halloween (Mental Floss)
15 Killer Facts About John Carpenter's Halloween (Movie Web)