I'm not one for horror re-makes or even sequels but DAWN OF THE DEAD looks the business. I think the original is a landmark work what with innovative splatter effects - Tom Savini please stand up - coupled with interesting, contemporary story telling. I think had the DAWN OF THE DEAD remake not been associated with the original it would've been THE landmark horror film of the new millennium with more main stream acceptability and plaudits.
All it takes is is a director or filmmaker to show some originality or style to transform the horror film. Case in point being THE BLAIR WITH PROJECT. It's a love it or hate it film but I thought it was excellent. Fascinating, to say the least, with an open ending that not alone makes one think but is very, very effective because of that.
There are tons and tons of excellent books out there that have never been even sniffed at to turn into a horror film. Screenplays almost already made, so to speak. The works of Ramsey Campbell, Clive Barker's THE DAMNATION GAME, JR Landsdale's books and the eco-horror of James Herbert immediately spring to mind.
The horror film is not dead. It just has to evolve and look into unchartered waters. The Oriental horror film is the new face of contemporary splatter and unease. There are loads I've yet to catch up with. Some maybe a bit heavy on sexual violence but don't let that that put you off. Others show little of nothing amongst their horrors yet are far more potent because of that.
Good point. Blair Witch Project, scared the shit out of people..(when younger, i thought it was somewhat scary, specially if you camp alot)...but it was effective... diehard horror fans probably hate the movie but it was a effective horror movie. also, i think that movies that dont rely on gore and extremem violence are somewhat alot more scarier.
Originally posted by Samas-adian
Good point. Blair Witch Project, scared the shit out of people..(when younger, i thought it was somewhat scary, specially if you camp alot)...but it was effective... diehard horror fans probably hate the movie but it was a effective horror movie. also, i think that movies that dont rely on gore and extremem violence are somewhat alot more scarier.
Indeed! I'm with you! I'm off to watch DARK WATER later at midnight on FilmFour. A dark windy night...lights off...all by myself...hell, I'm building up quite an atmosphere of unease before it even starts already! 😮💨
DARK WATER's from The Land Of The Rising Sun which bodes well for something potentially interesting. Those guys know their stuff. I'll let you know tomorrow whether it's worth checking out.