Halloween
Compass International Pictures | Release Date: October 25, 1978
8.6
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 702 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
625
Mixed:
46
Negative:
31
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
KimmyTeeMar 12, 2011
Greatest horror film that has ever been made. This movie is amazing and will always be my favorite. It is so creepy and scary without even showing blood and gore. I can't imagine not loving this movie. This movie is horror! You can't topGreatest horror film that has ever been made. This movie is amazing and will always be my favorite. It is so creepy and scary without even showing blood and gore. I can't imagine not loving this movie. This movie is horror! You can't top Michael Myers. John Carpenter is amazing!!… Expand
27 of 30 users found this helpful273
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9
BlakePNov 1, 2012
This is a fun, scary movie. "Halloween" is the horror flick that provided the formula for all slasher flicks to come. Though by today's standards it looks really low budget, it thrives in thrills, and the use of atmosphere rather than goreThis is a fun, scary movie. "Halloween" is the horror flick that provided the formula for all slasher flicks to come. Though by today's standards it looks really low budget, it thrives in thrills, and the use of atmosphere rather than gore only intensifies our adrenaline. Jamie Lee Curtis gives a great performance (and the one that ruined her career for years), but the real star is director John Carpenter, who directs each scene who loads of tension. "Halloween" is constantly suspenseful, and a work of art among the horror genre-- just avoid all of the needless sequels.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
larissa26Apr 9, 2021
The poster got me very interested and attracted to watch the movie, and it's literally the best terror movie i've ever seen. Exceeded my expectations!!
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
ninjajojo05Jul 25, 2021
Halloween is one of the best movies made and horror movie also it created the slasher genre
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
GinaP.Sep 2, 2007
One of my favorites! This film scared the crap outta me first time I saw it, I was probably 10 or 11 at the time. These days I still appreciate it for what it was. A cult classic, first of it's kind, genuine terror and tension filled One of my favorites! This film scared the crap outta me first time I saw it, I was probably 10 or 11 at the time. These days I still appreciate it for what it was. A cult classic, first of it's kind, genuine terror and tension filled fun. This movie was atmospheric and errie. The score is really what gets to you, making the hair stand up on the back of your neck. I cannont think of a better tense moment in any horror film than the scene from Halloween when Laurie is struggling to open the front door, calling for help, while Michael walks closer and closer, almost reaching her. If that didn't make you hang on to the edge of your seat the first time you watched it, then nothing will. A definite 10 in my book..always was, always will be!… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
ScottNJun 7, 2009
What more can I say - One of the greatest horror movies of all time and a true example of how to build suspense and terror without lots of gore. A true masterpiece. I only wish I could wipe my memory and go back and watch it again for the What more can I say - One of the greatest horror movies of all time and a true example of how to build suspense and terror without lots of gore. A true masterpiece. I only wish I could wipe my memory and go back and watch it again for the first time.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
JamesSep 1, 2007
It may not be as gory as Friday the 13th or Nightmare On Elm Street but in my opinion, I think Halloween is more suspenseful and tells a better story.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
bfoore90Jun 29, 2020
Carpenter's "little engine that could" single handedly turned Hollywood and modern horror on it's backside, Halloween is one of the best horror films ever made. Atmospheric, tense and chilling, Halloween brings you the legend that is MichaelCarpenter's "little engine that could" single handedly turned Hollywood and modern horror on it's backside, Halloween is one of the best horror films ever made. Atmospheric, tense and chilling, Halloween brings you the legend that is Michael Myers without the mindless, over the top gore and jump scares that exist in today's horror.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
MoviezNPAug 8, 2020
Whenever we talk about the classic slasher films, we must mention at least two names - A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), Halloween (1978). That's what this movie is - a pure classic. You know what Friday the 13th films are? Something thatWhenever we talk about the classic slasher films, we must mention at least two names - A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), Halloween (1978). That's what this movie is - a pure classic. You know what Friday the 13th films are? Something that started with a RIPOFF of Halloween. That's how important this film is! Who knows? Had it not been successful, we might have never got a Friday the 13th films at all! .
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Good : This usually is in my negatives in a slasher film, but here, it is in the positives - the characters. The characters we get introduced to in this film are very interesting. It doesn't feel like as if they're there to get killed, except for a final lady character. Laurie, our main girl played by Jamie Lee Kurtis, stands out to be one of my favorite final girls in the so-called classic slashers. Her friends are not just blant and useless characters either. They are not as interesting as Laurie, but they do entertain us either by getting killed or by interacting with other characters. I won't say all the characters are memorable, that's (perhaps) never the case in these type of films, but at least they don't feel forced and boring. Michael Myers. The tiny introduction to the character, for me, was sufficient to get behind him. We actually get to see what happened to him, or what made him the killer that he was. In short, Michael Myers was a good antagonist for me. However, all these are the secondary factors, which make this film good. The main aspects that need to be acknowledged for making this film so good, even after 40 years, would be John Carpenter. His imagination gave us Michael Myers. His screenplay served as the basis of this film. His music in this film gave chills. His direction made it a classic. I don't think the screenplay was a unique piece of writing. It could've been used to make a **** Friday the 13th film too. It's the direction of Carpenter that made the movie so good. Throughout the film, we can feel the creepy presence of Michael Myers and we do not have a single moment to relax. That's something which makes a film like this work. Not just kills. Or loud sound effects. Definitely not pseudo pornography. This movie apparently understood it very well. The suspense and the thrills are built very effectively and all of the thrills are worth the respective conclusions. The third act is a rollercoaster ride, to be honest. What I am going to say now can be put in "mixed" aspects, but I am not going to do so. If you show this movie to someone who has watched the modern day slasher films, he or she will definitely say "what's the big deal, the movie is clichéd". I would definitely agree to that - had it been a movie made in this date. It was made back when such films weren't so popular and if you think that this movie is obvious, you must know that movies like these are the ones which apparently gave us the clichéd template of slashers. It is a trend setter, in that respect. A movie being a trend setter is one of its biggest accomplishments. One more positive about this film. Compared to Nightmare and Friday films, the ending works in this movie. I would definitely say that the ending is quite similar to that of the first Friday and first Nightmare movie. There's a lot of mystery behind Michael Myers and they barely acknowledge him as "inhuman" - not confirming as if he was a supernatural entity or just an emotionless killer - and, he looks like a human. Even though we know enough about Myers to get behind him, even though Myers gets over with us, we still don't know many things about him. So, the ending makes us more curious about the character and hypes up for the sequel, even though it wasn't meant to be given sequels. It absolutely wasn't shoehorned to make room for the sequels like in the other two franchises I mentioned. Yet another positive. The character of Dr. Loomis is an integral part of what makes the story engaging. If you compare the first Nightmare film with it, we like the first Nightmare film because we get to know a great deal about Freddy and the psychological horror aspect of the movie was engaging. So, it didn't really need a "stopping agent" like Loomis. But comparing with Friday films, it lacks a character like Loomis to hold the movie tightly, which becomes a weak compilation of slicing scenes (roughly speaking). Dr. Loomis may not seem like a character which was integral to the movie. But, had he not been there, the movie might not have worked so well. I often get confused about which movie - among this one and first Nightmare film - I like the most. But, I always tend to put this one above just because of the ending that doesn't bug me. .
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Conclusion : It's one of those movies which deserve to be called "classic". Even though the tropes may seem familiar, it was perhaps the first one to use such tropes so effectively. Thus, viewing in the retrospect will make you enjoy this movie even more. .
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Rating. .
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Score : absolute 10/10
Grade : A+… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
MahmusSep 25, 2020
It perfectly captures the feeling that you're not safe. There's a killer on the loose and anyone could be his next victim.

And what's worse, the characters don't know this, so we watch them go about their day while unknowingly crossing pathsIt perfectly captures the feeling that you're not safe. There's a killer on the loose and anyone could be his next victim.

And what's worse, the characters don't know this, so we watch them go about their day while unknowingly crossing paths multiple times with the unstopable Michael Myers. He's just walking arround in plain daylight, and that's absolutely terrifying.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
mbrydgeAug 15, 2021
This is the only horror movie that still legitly scares the hell out of me every time I watch it I highly recommend watching this movie!
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
royalguy07Oct 31, 2022
Noticed for the first time that absolutely none of the trees or grass is showing any sign of an Illinois fall but it was filmed in CA. Still the best.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
MovieLonely94Nov 6, 2010
an excellent horror movie
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
SFNJan 8, 2011
this movie is amazing, the storyline is amazing, the actors are good, and the whole creation of micheal myers is awesome, John Carpenter is a genuis!!!
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
LuciusMcGibbonDec 9, 2012
A brief retort to two common criticisms of this great, great movie.... 1) "Not a lot of big scares, lots of down time." These people have a very loose grasp, if any, on the concept of building tension... To them, the scenes where the killerA brief retort to two common criticisms of this great, great movie.... 1) "Not a lot of big scares, lots of down time." These people have a very loose grasp, if any, on the concept of building tension... To them, the scenes where the killer is peering in from the background are meaningless if they don't immediately culminate in a satisfying kill scene. This may seem funny to say, but this movie was made at a time when nobody knew who Michael Myers was or what he was capable of. Watching this movie through the eyes of a newcomer might help these people appreciate suspense. 2) "They don't give us a reason for all the killing" That's the point! It's scarier that way, if you don't even know what motivates the killer, then he becomes even less human. There's no emotion, no reasoning, just a body walking around, taking death wherever it goes. People who have a problem with this are simply too used to having each and every background detail spoon-fed to them to enjoy a movie that purposely leaves the darkest parts to the imagination. 3) I read one review calling this movie "cliched"... which hilariously overlooks the fact that Halloween *started all those cliches!* So essentially, this person blames this movie for being too much like the movies that copied it... have fun with that one.... Yes, this movie does have its shortcomings (acting, editing, modest production values) but it still stands as an understated masterpiece, and the granddaddy of a sub-genre all its own. The buildup and release of tension are timed as skilfully as any scare flick ever made, and the near-total lack of blood only serves to underline the fact that the world's first slasher flick got its teeth from real directing and storytelling as opposed to cheap visuals and gratuitous violence. JUST REMEMBER: this movie must be seen in full widescreen, otherwise the framing will ruin some key scenes.… Expand
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
AvidMovieManFeb 17, 2014
In my opinion, one of the scariest films ever made! Low budget, but the acting is solid and the scares come at a fast clip. You feel this movie as much as you see it, thanks to Carpenter's now legendary score. Jamie Lee Curtis shines asIn my opinion, one of the scariest films ever made! Low budget, but the acting is solid and the scares come at a fast clip. You feel this movie as much as you see it, thanks to Carpenter's now legendary score. Jamie Lee Curtis shines as Laurie, as do the rest of the cast. Carpenter's direction is brilliant, especially that long opening shot. Also, the film does not rely on gore. The lighting is perfect for frightening the audience and the pale-masked killer, Michael Myers, looks and feel more menacing than Jason or Freddy.
First horror movie I ever saw, and still love to this day. Michael Bay's/ Rob Zombie's remake were vulgar and atrocious.… Expand
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
GodzillaMutoFanDec 19, 2015
This is one hell of a old 70s horror movie. Characters are relatable and the scares actually terrifies you. Michael is the highlight and he did not disappoint.
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
imthenoobOct 31, 2012
The horror movie of horror movies. Whenever someone is asked to listen a popular horror movie, A great majority of them will say Halloween for a reason. It's a must see classic for all horror fans.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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8
beingryanjudeAug 27, 2014
John Carpenter has a masterpiece on his hands. It transcends all other (often annoying) Halloween-related slasher movies. Perhaps, the use of Jamie Lee Curtis as our leading lady makes all the difference. She's wonderful.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
Kyle39Sep 9, 2012
Extremely scary and well made low budget horror film that delivers quality scares without gore. Carpenter's direction is brilliant, as is his legendary soundtrack. Very atmospheric and chilling.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
barnet42Oct 5, 2012
Halloween One of the best horror movie's 0f the 70's The Exorcist (1973). The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) . The Omen (1976). Carrie (1976). Halloween (1978)
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
Skullgirlsfan13May 13, 2013
Talk about a classic. When people talk about the first slasher film, they actually say Psycho, but this is a close contender. Not that it's not as good as that film, in fact I think that Psycho is a bit better made compared to this, but I'mTalk about a classic. When people talk about the first slasher film, they actually say Psycho, but this is a close contender. Not that it's not as good as that film, in fact I think that Psycho is a bit better made compared to this, but I'm here to talk about Halloween. This is by far my favorite horror movie, and I'm a Jason fan above all. The killer is not what makes this film; entirely, some good casting and photography makes everything better. Sure by todays standards this not considered scary or horrifying, but then again what is? Anyways, ever so rarely do you get a timeless story for a horror movie, because by now they all run dry in trying to be in on the joke. But wasn't great when you could watch a horror movie and not have to watch them make fun of themselves and the clichés they follow? I'm always up for watching a movie, of almost any genre; drama is not my forte, but horror would be my first suggestion. I watched this with friends on Halloween, it was the start of my horror movie phase; in watching all the classic slasher films, and this one came out on top. If you must know the order of the other 3 main series would be: nightmare on Elm street, Texas chainsaw massacre, and ironically Friday the 13th. Like I said previously, the camera work works well with the suspense, adding to it and making it more "terrifying". Terrifying might be a bit extreme. The story is good, it was made at a time where the formula wasn't dried up yet. Along with timeless storytelling, it manages to create some interesting themes in it. Talking about suburbia and its effects on certain people, pro feminism in how it's a damsel saving the day. So this is not just a bunch of nostalgia for me, this is a well put together film by a talented writer(s), and I think this is the definitive horror movie that should be viewed by anyone who's interested in horror or just plain filmmaking.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
JacobparkerMay 21, 2013
Wow, was that a pretty good and scary movie.
My favorite old horror movie after Carrie.
That epic music and that nervous breakdown!
Say hello to the nightmares.
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
TheCriticKidSep 20, 2013
This movie is a diamond in the horror field. There is yet to be a movie made to even come close to matching it's perfection. Jamie Lee Curtis couldn't have stumbled upon a better debut. The music score is terrifying and eerie and the whiteThis movie is a diamond in the horror field. There is yet to be a movie made to even come close to matching it's perfection. Jamie Lee Curtis couldn't have stumbled upon a better debut. The music score is terrifying and eerie and the white mask of the shape scares you even after the movie's over. The acting was perfect and the filming was perfect. Especially for a bunch of teenagers making a horror film in 1978. Beautifully directed movie. Brilliant.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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8
grandpajoe6191Sep 25, 2011
Legendary director John Carpenter made his mark in the horror genre with "Halloween". Yes, its that good (and scary).
9 of 13 users found this helpful94
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8
spadenxDec 3, 2011
While it does suffer from terrible over acting - Halloween gives us an actual scary horror film classic that is not only entertaining but its interesting. I enjoyed it.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
ThegodfathersonOct 14, 2013
I LOVE HALLOWEEN. It's one of the best horror movies ever made and my favourite horror movie! Any fan of horror movies is intimately familiar with Halloween even if they've not seen the actual film itself. The movie has been mimicked andI LOVE HALLOWEEN. It's one of the best horror movies ever made and my favourite horror movie! Any fan of horror movies is intimately familiar with Halloween even if they've not seen the actual film itself. The movie has been mimicked and parodied extensively and the cliches present have become embedded in pop culture. The movie begins with the view from the eyes of a killer, who watches a girl have sex with her boyfriend. As soon as he leaves, he stabs her with a knife. The killer turns out to be her six-year old brother and is committed to a mental institution. Fifteen years later, Michael Myers (Tony Moran), returns to his old home to kill once again. His targets this time include three high school students: Annie (Nancy Kyes), Lynda (P. J. Soles), and Laurie (Jamie Lee Curtis). Who dies next and who ends up living is the guessing game the audience gets to play (along with the characters). Whether intentionally or not, the movie ends up having a moralistic message. All the people who are killed are involved in sexual acts. Michael Myers is portrayed as the embodiment of evil, as opposed to being a "normal" serial killer, and some of the things he does has a hint of the supernatural. It's interesting that the movies Halloween inspired, in the slash-and-gore horror genre, borrow less from the Psycho-like feel present in the film and instead seek to showcase the scenes we don't see. There's little gore in the film and a lot of the fear is psychological. The movie is made more frightening simply because we don't see body parts splattered about. Yet later movies chose to abandon suspense as a means of achieving terror and sought instead to shock people by showing more blood and gore. Halloween's status as a cult film is assured. The movie has several flaws, but the primary reason it has gained such a status has to do with director John Carpenter's minimalist distillation of the most pure, adrenaline generating, horror and suspense moments seen before in previous films. Definitely worth a rental on Halloween night.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
marcmyworksAug 4, 2014
A truly suspenseful and terrifying film. John Carpenter is able to bring the scary without gore or torture, just good old fashion tension. Jamie Lee Curtis is brilliant and the films climax will leave you with chills
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
TheDude-Jan 28, 2016
Halloween is my favorite slasher film of all time purely for it's masterful execution in being extremely scary and intense to the point where i find myself gripping the couch that i am sitting on, the reason for this is because the filmmakersHalloween is my favorite slasher film of all time purely for it's masterful execution in being extremely scary and intense to the point where i find myself gripping the couch that i am sitting on, the reason for this is because the filmmakers knew that slowly building suspense before Michael murders his victims will always keep the audience on edge, the intensity and suspense was also elevated by the films fantastically creepy musical score and cinematography.
10/10 a masterpiece in horror.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
Josephgamers65Mar 28, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Halloween 1978 is a Movie about Michael Myer killing his Sister In the first 5 minutes Right after when that happens Loomis is trying to figure out what his next victim is going to happen Laurie goes to Michael Myers house randomly He starts to stock her around for the whole day than at night stocks more set's up for tension for the characters Every one of his victims Are killed off in a good way and good suspense throughout this movie It is slow but it makes u get on the edge of your seat u don't know where he is going to be next u don't when he is going to kill someone Which to me is very good Right when Laurie goes to I belive Lynda house she gets so scared sets up all the kills right in front of Laurie All round Halloween 1978 Is amazing I'll be watching this movie every year I give Halloween An A… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
Spielberg00Nov 14, 2011
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bottom Line: Why appreciate Friday the 13th and A Nightmare on Elm Street when you can appreciate this? Halloween started it ALL.

The thing that truly makes this one a classic is that it is certainly a slasher, but it also manages to maintain the actual â… Expand
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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10
cameronmorewoodNov 8, 2012
One of the greatest horror films ever made; Halloween has an impeccable system of suspense, and echoes the great classic, Psycho.
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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8
demmaster95May 8, 2011
Even though this movie is technically a slasher flick the action doesn't come un till much later into the movie so if your looking for a plain blood bath this is probably not your type of thing however the story line is well developed and theEven though this movie is technically a slasher flick the action doesn't come un till much later into the movie so if your looking for a plain blood bath this is probably not your type of thing however the story line is well developed and the suspense does build, as we know that at the end the killer (Michael Myers) will inevitably attack the main character (Laurie Strode) . The basis of the plot is that Michael Myers escapes from a mental institute and goes back to his home town where he starts Stalking a girl, After finding out about the escape his physiologist realises where he is heading and goes to the home town to find, and i will leave the rest of this brilliant movie for you to watch, since if you are a horror fan this is defiantly a must watch.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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10
robertoiglesiasOct 10, 2017
Halloween is a great horror film, but A Nightmare On Elm Street is my favorite(Halloween is my 2nd favorite). Michael Myers and Laurie Strode are amazing characters and it is very scary.
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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10
Jack1Oct 30, 2010
Brilliant film. Great suspenseful movie, John Carpenter is a genius. Not much gore but certainly one of the best horror movies ever. The music is well-written and makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. Michael Myers is theBrilliant film. Great suspenseful movie, John Carpenter is a genius. Not much gore but certainly one of the best horror movies ever. The music is well-written and makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. Michael Myers is the ultimate horror movie character, well thought-out, a simple character yet creates an atmosphere which is incredibly scary. First saw this film when I was 10 and scared the life out of me, overall, a great film and possibly the best horror movie ever.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
TheQuietGamerNov 1, 2018
I was a little anxious going into this. It's held in such high regard and nearly everything that's followed has been inspired by it in some way. It made me nervous to think that I wouldn't be able to appreciate this universally agreed uponI was a little anxious going into this. It's held in such high regard and nearly everything that's followed has been inspired by it in some way. It made me nervous to think that I wouldn't be able to appreciate this universally agreed upon masterpiece because of everything I've watched in the years since it was released. That's what happened with Tobe Hooper's The Texas Chain Massacre. I respected it for it's legacy and influence, but was ultimately left more annoyed with Leatherface's demented family than frightened.

All that worrying proved to be for naught though. On top of aging like a fine wine, everyone who ever borrowed or outright plagiarized from this film failed to capture it's magic in the process. I mean seriously, no one's tried their hands at the first-person perspective from the opening? I would love to see an entire movie made in that style. It gives you the bizarre sensation of floating. As close as you'll ever come to being a passenger in another person's body.

This is so much more slow-paced than what you would think. Carpenter really let's you soak in that unmistakable feeling that can only be experienced on October 31st. We get to spend some time with the characters while the masked killer Michael Myers creepily stalks from a distance in a manner that clearly inspired The Strangers and it's sequel Prey at Night. All the while one of the most remarkable soundtracks in all cinema is playing and setting the mood. Just like Dario Argento's Suspiria, the music is an integral part of the experience. The movie wouldn't have been the same without it.

Myers is such an enigmatic villain that was begging to explored so it's easy to see why there were so many sequels. Donald Pleasance does an excellent job hinting at the darker qualities driving this killer. Dropping clues about how he's more than just a normal man who suffered a psychotic break as a child. Certain things he says brought to mind demon possession and other supernatural possibilities. I'm curious to see where his backstory goes (if anywhere) in the later films. On top of having such an imposing physical presence, Myers heavy breathing is also somehow a positive distinctive quality.

There are a lot of shots that are great at instilling a foreboding sense of doom. Like Laurie's (Curtis) walk down the hall to the only room in the house with a light behind the door in an effort to find out what happened to her friends. Rather than trying to outright terrify, to me it felt like Carpenter was trying to create something more spooky than anything. If I'm right and that is the case then he succeeded marvelously. That kind of tone is so befitting of a movie called and set on halloween.

Alright, time to be a dweeb and criticize the few things I didn't like about this undeniably legendary slice (get it? Because he uses a big knife) of horror. Curtis is all around excellent, but when she finally has to start dodging Myers at every stabby turn we have to listen to her constantly sob and mutter to herself and it gets a little irritating because of how forced it feels. The soundtrack, like the aforementioned Suspiria, can be a little too much at times. For example, it flares up every time we see Myers driving behind the girls when they're walking. I mean give it a rest, we already know he's there.

A little nitpicky I'll admit, but that might just be a testament to how there isn't really anything you can truly tear this movie apart for. The actual flaws are so small they're practically invisible. This might very well be the best slasher ever made. Certainly the best one I've seen so far. A must watch for horror fans or anyone who loves a good spook in October. Watching this for the first time on halloween felt like I completed some sacred right of passage that anyone who considers themself a true enthusiast of the genre must go through.

9.1/10… Expand
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10
j30Nov 9, 2011
This is a great movie that has dated a bit, but the premise and atmosphere is creepier than Hell. No guts, no glory doesn't apply here, there is little or no blood and still manages to scare. The thought of being watched has always made theThis is a great movie that has dated a bit, but the premise and atmosphere is creepier than Hell. No guts, no glory doesn't apply here, there is little or no blood and still manages to scare. The thought of being watched has always made the hair on the back of my neck stand.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
EssenceOfSugarNov 11, 2013
This is an honestly suspenseful thriller it truly builds up right from the beginning. The fantastic simplicity of using the same soundtrack throughout lacks monotone and adds creepy familiarity, the neighborhood as the setting proves to be aThis is an honestly suspenseful thriller it truly builds up right from the beginning. The fantastic simplicity of using the same soundtrack throughout lacks monotone and adds creepy familiarity, the neighborhood as the setting proves to be a falsely secure yet sunny environment. You're almost begging Michael Myers not to take off the mask which illustrates someone who looks human, but feels inhuman with those dark, merciless look in where his eyes should be. The colour is a muted, almost grainy tone, giving a more authentic 80's feel, with the shadow in the background disappearing with a second look which we unquestionably accept until the real thrills happen, as the haunting presence that contrasted with the setting is able to come out. Even when he does, Myers is still both intimidating and ruthless as he picks them off.
The self-reference of a director undoubtedly feels out of place, but the psychiatric character of Dr. Loomis played brilliantly with undeniably precise questioning by Donald Pleasance. We can forgive his more likely ridiculous stance as he searches for his patient, because it is counter-acted by such an emotionless, inhuman embodiment of nature vs. nurture with no solid reason to kill.
The running time was in tune with the story-line without frequent jump scares to provide nutrition, the kills worthwhile when they happen with a amazingly juicy one in the downstairs kitchen. It works with realism a quiet, normal neighborhood disrupted by, rather than a raging presence, a silent stalker that symbolically represents the real safety of our neighborhood which can be likewise seen in other twisted slashers such as A Nightmare On Elm Street. The killer that comes out from beneath its shell and strikes without warning. A 6 year old with no soul, a butcher knife and murder on his mind? That is an argument that writes itself.… Expand
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9
nascentSep 7, 2015
Great suspense, haunting score, long atmospheric tracking shots. This film paved the way for many 80s horrors and influenced many films onwards. The definitive silent serial killer slasher film. With atmospheric horror but very mildGreat suspense, haunting score, long atmospheric tracking shots. This film paved the way for many 80s horrors and influenced many films onwards. The definitive silent serial killer slasher film. With atmospheric horror but very mild violence and no gore. Subtle, dark and unnerving horror,… Expand
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10
GlitterAug 30, 2013
Revolutionary in fathering the slasher genre and catering to the masses without the blood and gore viewers are so sensitized by today. Moving briskly at a pace in which the brooding fear of The Shape's attacks build you're left shivering inRevolutionary in fathering the slasher genre and catering to the masses without the blood and gore viewers are so sensitized by today. Moving briskly at a pace in which the brooding fear of The Shape's attacks build you're left shivering in your seat as the excellent score carries the mood. Carpenter crafted an immaculate piece of Horror, without perverting art in the name of profit.… Expand
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8
Jack_SunshineDec 3, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The build up to Halloween (the holiday, not the film) has inspired me to explore the old slasher ‘classics’ of the ‘70s and ‘80s, which until now has been something of a neglected pursuit. It transpires that they are often relentlessly formulaic and derivative, although this does serve to highlight the strengths of superior films in the genre.

Traditionally, we are introduced to a group of carefree and naive teenagers who are then systematically and sadistically dispatched with varying creativity by an unseen killer. The film usually concludes with a battle between the now revealed killer and the final (usually female) survivor, culminating in an often mind bogglingly ambiguous climax.

Artistic integrity aside, many of these killers have developed into iconic horror characters, and (sometimes in spite the original directors’ wishes) have spawned persistent franchises. It is thus with a sense of genuine curiosity that I look towards the horizon at the undoubtedly heady delights of Friday the 13th, Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan (1989) and an answer as to why Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991) is followed by yet another three Nightmare on Elm Street films.

Where better to start than with Halloween (the film, not the holiday)? Even if it didn’t spawn the genre, its global success certainly solidified it in the public consciousness. It brought horror away from the supernatural and into the idyllic streets of suburban America.

Naturally, the film opens on Halloween night (purportedly chosen when director John Carpenter realised that nobody had yet made a film by that name) when a teenage girl is murdered by her own brother, the young Michael Myers. He bears a simple name that would come to represent evil incarnate, at least until it became irrevocably associated with a certain Canadian comic actor.

The tagline “The night he came home!” is enough to reveal that the rest of the film takes place on a Halloween some fifteen years later, when an adult Michael escapes from a psychiatric hospital with the single minded objective of returning to his hometown and indulging his psychopathic tendencies.

For reasons at yet unknown, his ultimate objective seems to be Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis in a role which would earn her the title of ‘scream queen’ and land her roles in the wave of slashers that appeared in Halloween’s wake, including Prom Night (1980) and Terror Train (1980).

For all its commercial success, Halloween is at heart an independent film, one of Carpenter’s earliest, brimming with evidence of budgetary constraints and notably fraught with continuity and production errors. The famous mask was in fact a painted William Shatner mask from Star Trek, and the film was shot during spring in Southern California (not autumn in Illinois) on a tight schedule: Donald Pleasence, who played Michael’s psychiatrist Dr. Loomis, filmed all his scenes in under a week.

Against this backdrop, Carpenter makes use of shadow and subtlety, rather than special effects. Those familiar with more modern films may be surprised by the low body count and lack of graphic violence. The slow pacing draws out the tension, and allows the character development that other such films lack. Much of the first half follows Laurie and her friends through their day, whilst Michael stalks them one step behind. He is the unsettling figure in the distance, always drifting in and out of sight. Only Laurie sees, and her distress falls on the deaf ears of her incredulous friends.

Not everything about Halloween is completely original. At one point, Michael evokes a traditional campfire tale by hiding in the back seat of a victim’s car, a variant of which has appeared in everything from The Godfather (1972) to The Dark Knight (2008) and even in later slasher films.

Pleasence steals the show as Dr. Loomis, bringing gravitas to a film of otherwise fluctuating acting quality. It’s faintly hammy, but the sinister British elocution provides a voice of reason and grim truth against the sea of American hysteria as he reveals the true depravity of his patient’s soul in one of the best quotes in the film:

“I met this six-year-old child, with this blank, pale, emotionless face, and the blackest eyes… the devil’s eyes. I spent eight years trying to reach him, and then another seven trying to keep him locked up because I realised that what was living behind that boy’s eyes was purely and simply… evil.”

We cannot deny that Loomis was right to be wary, but at its most cynical reading this paints a picture of a psychiatric system that has utterly failed Michael as a patient. Nevertheless, for a film which appears grounded in a real world interpretation of horror, there are undeniable echoes of the supernatural: Michael’s nigh immortality to the grievous wounds inflicted upon him lend credence to the diagnosis that there may be something truly diabolic at work.… Expand
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9
MovieGuysOct 10, 2013
The fun scare-fest that it is, Halloween fulfills all your expectations. It's creepy, messes with your mind, and suspense and horror are there. It avoids some horror movie clichés, but still uses some. But, maybe we can forgive that, sinceThe fun scare-fest that it is, Halloween fulfills all your expectations. It's creepy, messes with your mind, and suspense and horror are there. It avoids some horror movie clichés, but still uses some. But, maybe we can forgive that, since this movie was in 1978 when the clichés we see in horror movies nowadays were just starting out then.… Expand
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10
KennyTWDFeb 8, 2014
This is the best movie ever. I was horrified of Michael's stealth and his strength, also he is seen on screen for about 9 minutes and that's what makes the movie scary and how it's creepy in a stalker like manner instead of those crappyThis is the best movie ever. I was horrified of Michael's stealth and his strength, also he is seen on screen for about 9 minutes and that's what makes the movie scary and how it's creepy in a stalker like manner instead of those crappy horror flicks with nothing but brutal and mass murder. They should have never made sequels after this masterpiece. Wait who is that? OH GOD ITS MICHAEL MYERS! He's got a knife and is walking toward me!
I'M KENNY FROM THE WALKING DEAD AND I REVIEW IT, OUCH! ... to save lives.
(Heavy breathing) ................................................................................................… Expand
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9
Voodoo123Oct 8, 2018
Even though (in 2018) it shows its age in various ways, Halloween remains an effective horror thriller. Even more impressive it achieves this without drowning the audience in a OTT gory body count or showering the cast with blood. A worthyEven though (in 2018) it shows its age in various ways, Halloween remains an effective horror thriller. Even more impressive it achieves this without drowning the audience in a OTT gory body count or showering the cast with blood. A worthy addition to the honorary halls of low budget slasher films fame.… Expand
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8
StrangerinaJul 1, 2014
The first half of this classic is rather uneventful, we see Michael escape the hospital, and college girls banter on about their personal life. I'm not much of a fan of this kind of character development. I found it rather trite.

TheThe first half of this classic is rather uneventful, we see Michael escape the hospital, and college girls banter on about their personal life. I'm not much of a fan of this kind of character development. I found it rather trite.

The suspense does eventually get running as Michael starts killing off these characters, and the soundtrack does justice to this psychotic mass murderer. The movie relies less on gore and more on the creeping murderer around every corner.

Less is more, in this case.

The presence of Donald Pleasence really makes the character of Michael Myers come to life, and without him, I doubt that I would have given much of a hoot about this film. He adds a more psychological side to Michael's otherwise uninteresting (but still rather creepy) presence.… Expand
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10
ThingummyblobAug 9, 2014
Ok, let's get this straight, this movie is not scary. Suspenseful, not scary. This is an old film so it wasn't going to be as scary as the new horror films. That doesn't matter though because I really enjoyed this film. It had a few violentOk, let's get this straight, this movie is not scary. Suspenseful, not scary. This is an old film so it wasn't going to be as scary as the new horror films. That doesn't matter though because I really enjoyed this film. It had a few violent parts, nothing like Saw or anything. You know, just stabbing and that kind of stuff. This movie was amazing, I recommend all horror fans, and also everyone, to watch this.… Expand
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9
moviecritic108Nov 4, 2014
Awesome movie! This is very suspenseful and I really like how scary it is! I definitely recommend this movie. Much better than Friday the 13th. Watch it now!
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10
XdgntenseOct 12, 2015
My 1# favourite of all movies of all genres. Watched it a 1000 times. No lie
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10
JPKJul 4, 2019
A Horror Classic
Halloween is by far one of the most iconic horror movies of all time.
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9
GCOReviewsOct 29, 2018
My favorite horror movie of all time!!! May have some low kill counts but Carpenter's score gives the movie, the suspense and creepiness it deserves. Low budget it may be but a darn awesome film! HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS FILM!!!
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9
HellHoleHorrorApr 30, 2022
This is the original stalker-slasher movie. The violence is almost implied rather than graphic but this works really well in building tension and creating a sense of death in the air. You never really see the killer and you never really needThis is the original stalker-slasher movie. The violence is almost implied rather than graphic but this works really well in building tension and creating a sense of death in the air. You never really see the killer and you never really need to. All you need to know is that he is inhuman and pure evil! This is explained anyway. The acting is great and the long shots almost create a sense of heightened foreboding. This is a must-see for any horror fans. It killed a generation of free-love and spawned countless copies. Only gripe is that it plays as a comedy to modern audiences. A piece of horror film history even tributed to by Scream (1996) and many others.… Expand
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7
ReubenIsAGodNov 1, 2013
On of the greatest American slashers ever created, its the simple fact that the main antagonist is just their, staring at you through his cold heartless eyes, stalking the viewer, its so goddamn creepy
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9
DavidSpecialMar 12, 2018
A horror classic. A lot can be considered cliche horror tropes now but only because this has been copied infinity amounts of times.
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7
ERG1008Sep 8, 2010
Boy kills his sister, goes to asylum, escapes 15 years later, goes back to hometown to terrorise teenagers.
John Carpenter's benchmark slasher film which served as a template for many others to follow & created the horror that is MichaelBoy kills his sister, goes to asylum, escapes 15 years later, goes back to hometown to terrorise teenagers.
John Carpenter's benchmark slasher film which served as a template for many others to follow & created the horror that is Michael Myers.
Most of it still stands up quite well using Myers sparingly, sometimes only seeing Myers' mask standing out in the darkness in the corner of your eye.
It does get a bit silly in the last ten minutes but overall a solid horror film.… Expand
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8
CrusaderOct 28, 2022
John Carpenter's masterpiece that started it all. Without it, chances are we wouldn't have slasher as a genre.
Jamie Lee Curtis starting her career as "The Queen of Scream", Donald Pleasence as the doom preaching Dr. Loomis and Nick Castle asJohn Carpenter's masterpiece that started it all. Without it, chances are we wouldn't have slasher as a genre.
Jamie Lee Curtis starting her career as "The Queen of Scream", Donald Pleasence as the doom preaching Dr. Loomis and Nick Castle as Michael Myers, the killer in the Captain Kirk mask called "The Shape".
It's a movie I appreciate more as an adult than I did as a teenager. I still see all the plot holes and flaws but now I understand more about the work they put into this low budget horror movie and the charm it gives it.… Expand
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8
SpangleSep 22, 2016
A chilling horror film from director John Carpenter, Halloween is not without its age spots (what else did you expect after 38 years?), but remains an effective thriller to this day that has influenced a genre ever since it was released.A chilling horror film from director John Carpenter, Halloween is not without its age spots (what else did you expect after 38 years?), but remains an effective thriller to this day that has influenced a genre ever since it was released. Though Carpenter heavily riffs off of Alfred Hitchcock's horror masterpiece Psycho, Halloween is scary in its own right, though it often uses the same skills Hitchcock demonstrated in Psycho to make Halloween enter the next level of scariness.

Okay, the acting is bad. I tried to lessen the hurt there, but it honestly was really bad. In saying that, however, I do not expect much in this regard. The point of the film is to scare you, not wow you with the prowess of that actors. That said, it was bad enough to mention.

On the positive column is practically everything else. Brilliantly utilizing sound in a fashion shown off by Hitchcock's Psycho, the film utilizes deeply unsettling sounds that honestly scare you on their own. Forget the visuals. The sound is scary enough on its own thanks to the film's use of sounds that not just alert you that something scary is about to happen, but have no chemistry whatsoever with your ears. When watching a film such as this, the score really sets the mood and boy does it ever accomplish this in Halloween.

As far as the characterization of Michael Myers goes, John Carpenter does a great job establishing the lore of Myers and telling rather than showing. Instead of showing us his time in the mental institution, it merely tells us what happened there, which ups the scariness and impact of the stories. In most films, this is a mortal sin. For horror films, it can be a brilliant tactic and Carpenter uses it perfectly. Thanks to the doctor's descriptions, we get a clear picture in our minds of what Myers is, what he looks like, and how he acts. This mental image is far scarier than anything Carpenter could have shown us.

Additionally, the film never rushes proceedings. It is more than happy to sit back and wait to build anticipation. Rather than having Michael run around killing everybody in sight, he bides his time and significantly ups the tension by building it and building it up. This anticipation completely boils over when things finally hit the fan and the tension is dialed up to 11. While cliched by today's time, the climax of this film was really the first of its kind (if I am not mistaken, Halloween was the first film to kill the antagonist only to bring him to life again). Plus, though it can be a bit silly at times thanks to it being done to death by 2016, Carpenter handles the reveals very well. With over the shoulder shots from Laurie (Jamie Lee Curtis) to Michael's "dead" body, the shot of him standing up becomes all the more terrifying. As a result, this is truly a film that defines the horror genre and the way in which we watch the movie, become terrified, and yell at the screen, "BEHIND YOU". Halloween is ripe with these moments and really benefits from it.

Halloween is a tough film to watch nowadays. Though there is an ever present sense of dread, a killer score, and endless tension, the film has truly been copied on a daily basis since its release 38 years ago. As a whole, Halloween is a thoroughly scary and entertaining affair from John Carpenter with unmistakable influence from Psycho and on later films. Interestingly, there is little-to-no gore in Halloween, yet films that will rip it off for years to come bathe everybody in blood. Odd. Also, did anybody notice the cheeky foreshadowing of Carpenter's future remake of The Thing?… Expand
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7
Compi24Oct 23, 2018
One of the genre's greatest exercises in holding the audience within a zone of pure tension for over 90 minutes, John Carpenter's "Halloween" is a rightful classic, featuring some simple, yet effective lore, generation-defining scares, and aOne of the genre's greatest exercises in holding the audience within a zone of pure tension for over 90 minutes, John Carpenter's "Halloween" is a rightful classic, featuring some simple, yet effective lore, generation-defining scares, and a nerve-shredding final act. Not much else to say about this one -- you simply have to watch it to experience the influence and history.… Expand
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8
demolisher7778Oct 27, 2014
A horror classic. Nothing is creepier than seeing Mike Myers stalk you with his creepy mask. The scares are genuine and the chills are real. However, Halloween does have unforgettable and expendable characters.
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10
BrushedRedOct 30, 2015
The father of all slasher films.. sure Psycho may've been it's inspiration, but it took where Psycho ended and built onto it. Halloween, the 1978 film, is an indie-horror film that was well more destined to flop than to soar. It had a budgetThe father of all slasher films.. sure Psycho may've been it's inspiration, but it took where Psycho ended and built onto it. Halloween, the 1978 film, is an indie-horror film that was well more destined to flop than to soar. It had a budget of $300,000.. They couldn't even afford a mask for this movie so they altered a William Shatner mask.

In terms of story, we aren't told much. We know that a kid kills his sister on Halloween night and we are told that he goes to a mental hospital and we scene the scene where he escapes. Afterwards, we see him all around town and we see that he stalks a select few girls.

Part of what makes Halloween so good (and why others might think it might not be so good) is how there isn't much of a story. We don't even know that Laurie is Michael's step sister until later sequels. In this movie, nothing is explained, but to some, like me, this makes it better. We see that Michael is a psycho and stalking random girls for really no reason at all. The movie probably didn't think it would have sequels, so the psychopathic premise was genius and the later backstory was tacked on.The Halloween sequels were pretty subpar, but this original movie is amazing. The ambiance, the buildup, and the character development are awesome, and Dr. Loomis makes a wonderful appearance and adds a whole new depth to the story.

The funny thing about Halloween is that it's a low-budget horror film that ultimately doesn't feel like a low-budget movie. Sure there aren't really any special effects, there doesn't need to be. Nor does there have to be blood and gore either. It's just a fun, chilling ride that has wonderful season spirit. Sure it was the father of all slashers and started many cliches, but you have to think, before this movie was made, those cliches didn't exist, and therefore, it made a whole new type of movie. Halloween is a true classic that all must see. It's not only one of my favorite horror movies, but it is one of my favorite movies of all-time.… Expand
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10
NerdConsultantDec 30, 2014
this is a masterwork of horror delivering one of the best slasher villains ever. this film launched both Jamie Lee Curtis and and John carpenter careers and looking back on it I wouldn't have it any other way. john's directing style allowsthis is a masterwork of horror delivering one of the best slasher villains ever. this film launched both Jamie Lee Curtis and and John carpenter careers and looking back on it I wouldn't have it any other way. john's directing style allows the film to be legitimately scary in a way that a lot of modern horror movies are failing to achieve seriously give it a look if you haven't… Expand
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9
youlouzNov 20, 2015
Brilliant! Especially from the mind of John Carpenter. This movie kept my attention for most of the time even if some of the acting was not spectacular.
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10
ElGalanJul 12, 2015
Halloween is an absolute classic. Michael Myers is an original slasher and this movie has a genuine flow to it. Nothing flashy, just straight up good ole fashion horror.
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7
EpicLadySpongeMay 13, 2016
It seems I never got a chance to review this movie in October 2015 because my account was created 2 months after. Why am I reviewing this in May? None of your concern that's for sure. Horror classic, and because it's horror it got the scoreIt seems I never got a chance to review this movie in October 2015 because my account was created 2 months after. Why am I reviewing this in May? None of your concern that's for sure. Horror classic, and because it's horror it got the score of 7, for everyone to enjoy.… Expand
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10
timoneOct 25, 2018
All right, for memorable killers in horror history such as Freddy Krueger in The Nightmare of Elm Street, Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th and Leatherface in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, this time only one killer is a threat to those whoAll right, for memorable killers in horror history such as Freddy Krueger in The Nightmare of Elm Street, Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th and Leatherface in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, this time only one killer is a threat to those who comes in his way, Michael Myers. For John Carpenter directing Halloween. He is the master of horror and he will do anything to scare the audience. In 1963, six-year-old Michael Myers killed his older sister, Judith Myers with a kitchen knife. Fifteen years later, on October 30, 1978, five days after the film itself has released, (Oh my, God, this is going to happen!), Dr. Sam Loomis played by Donald Pleasence, can sense that Michael is in Haddonfield and he knows that he's going to kill people on Halloween night and do anything to track Michael Myers down. And that's all I can say it. It's all Michael Myers is doing is killing people. I'm being dying to review this movie in October because it's the best time for Halloween. Children getting treats from people, scaring them with costumes, best time for kids on Halloween. This is practically Jamie Lee Curtis's first film debut and in this one she plays Laurie Strode. Some people considers Jamie a scream queen cause what else she appears in various horror films. Now she appears in the new Halloween film which is actually a direct sequel to the original ignoring all the following sequels in existence. Damn. I was actually looking forward to seeing the 1981 sequel but that never happened. You just can't stop thinking about all the sequels of Halloween because they already existed. Well, to be fair, I haven't watched any of the sequels so I guess I'll have to wait. With this one, I love it. It has great characters including Michael Myers, good scares and a memorable score by John Carpenter. I didn't know he can conduct. It is my favourite horror film to date and I will watch it every night including on Halloween in October and I hope you have a Happy Halloween. It will give you nightmares when you think about it and you just want to hide under your blankets. OK, go to your room, kids. Go on, up you go.… Expand
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10
ShafeApr 8, 2016
A fantastic,atmospheric flick that,i dare say is just a tad bit better than Psycho and Exorcist,just my opinion,one of the greatest films of all time!
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10
GamecubeLoverAug 20, 2016
Halloween is an instant classic but not my favorite horror movie probably my 4th. This movie is very interesting but the series will soon be milked for a very long time.
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10
MasterRileyNov 2, 2016
Halloween is very suspenseful and scary without giving the audience much information on Michael Myers or what he looks like. The cinematography and music helps add to the mystery. It is definitely a classic that everyone should see. My onlyHalloween is very suspenseful and scary without giving the audience much information on Michael Myers or what he looks like. The cinematography and music helps add to the mystery. It is definitely a classic that everyone should see. My only con is I wish there was a bit more explanation as to why Mike Myers acts the way he does, and why he can withstand bullets and being stabbed. Perhaps he has a bullet proof vest, or maybe its something thats explored in the sequels. So its not necessarily a problem with the movie.… Expand
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8
alejandro970Oct 31, 2021
Just behind Psychosis, this is one of the forerunners of the psychotic killer genre. One of its strengths is how the musical background and suspense go hand in hand in a way that causes anxiety in the viewer, without simple resources. Just inJust behind Psychosis, this is one of the forerunners of the psychotic killer genre. One of its strengths is how the musical background and suspense go hand in hand in a way that causes anxiety in the viewer, without simple resources. Just in case, tonight lock doors and windows.… Expand
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9
gNov 12, 2016
An outstanding film of murderers that tells us about his backstory to his present day while returning. John Carpenter's Halloween (1978) has an iconic beauty to a horror film but it's more of a thriller but still gives us great chills.
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9
gta3lcpdOct 25, 2016
One of the very best horror movies I've ever seen. The rest of the series kind of sucks ass, with the exception of Halloween II (1981), but in spite of that, Halloween is just freaking awesome! It's got an overall dark and creepy atmosphere,One of the very best horror movies I've ever seen. The rest of the series kind of sucks ass, with the exception of Halloween II (1981), but in spite of that, Halloween is just freaking awesome! It's got an overall dark and creepy atmosphere, and leaves you feeling unsettled, with intense and suspenseful moments. It's also one of the few movies that effectively scares you, and it does a damn fine job of it. The story and characters are great, but what just might be my very favorite thing is the music. The music is what really ups the nostalgic value for me. Like, I have a scale of how strong the nostalgia is: LOW, MODERATE, HIGH, and AGGRESSIVE, and it's definitely aggressive, mainly due to the music, otherwise, it would only verge on high for me. Anyway, the point is, Halloween is arguably one of the best scary movies ever made, and maybe even one of the best ever in general. So, this Halloween, watch Halloween for a good scary movie, turn down the lights, and prepare to yell, **** you!" to anything that moves, because Halloween will likely make you jumpy.… Expand
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9
daviddelnorte23Jul 6, 2017
Estaba deseando hincar el diente al cine de Carpenter, pero no sabía por donde empezar, afortunadamente, he empezado por su plato, quizá más fuerte, y es que 'Halloween' no solo me parece una obra maestra del cine de terror (del cual no soyEstaba deseando hincar el diente al cine de Carpenter, pero no sabía por donde empezar, afortunadamente, he empezado por su plato, quizá más fuerte, y es que 'Halloween' no solo me parece una obra maestra del cine de terror (del cual no soy para nada fan) si no que se ha convertido en mi película favorita del género. Nunca antes he disfrutado tanto y, a la vez, sufrido tanto viendo una película del ya mencionado género. En algunos puntos de la película es absolutamente terrorífica, gracias a Carpenter, como lo filma; como muestra y como cuenta la historia. La película podría ser una comedia que gracias a la bso, los planos, los movimientos de cámara lo convierte en terror, porque, seamos realistas, es un hombre con un mono azul y una máscara asustando niñas de instituto...

La bso, a la que ya menciono en parte superior, es legendaria y lo que significa cuando suena, lo importante que es en la trama. El plano secuencia del inicio de la película. Es todo sensacional.

En definitiva, esta película es una obra maestra del cine de terror que, a mí personalmente, me gusta incluso más que 'El resplandor'. Un sobresaliente alto, 9.… Expand
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10
ViniciusBritoSep 7, 2018
Damn! What an experience this movie was, it was like really few before. A kid that lives in a small town named Haddonfield, and lives with his parents and his sister, in one night he kills the sister and end up in some sort of asylum, 15Damn! What an experience this movie was, it was like really few before. A kid that lives in a small town named Haddonfield, and lives with his parents and his sister, in one night he kills the sister and end up in some sort of asylum, 15 years later he escaped and went back to his hometown. Directed by John Carpenter.
The story of this movie isn't the most complex thing in the world and also isn't the most important here neither, so it isn't a problem because it is very functional, it doesn't falls short in any way, it does have a pretty good job in presenting the characters and making we care with at least one of them very much, some characters are just placed there, that comes out of nowhere, but it all converge into the same character, so it wasn't a problem, because even if we didn't knew or cared about some of these characters, the main one did and it affected her anyway, you could also argue that doesn't seem to have any clear reason for Michael to do what he did, but it is simply that he is a completely psycho, you don't know if he do that for fun, or if he believes that there is something else that he needs to achieve, this is part of the mystery of the character and it is very good and well done.
The creation of the character Michael Myers is a point that needs to have some light, they first gave him a back story that totally worked, and jumped 15 years through the movie, and during the story they had his doctor that used to talk about him, how he was, how he sees him, or it, and that gave him substance. About his visual, at the same way that they keeped it simple, they made it dope, the mask is scary and creepy, it is perfect, they way that he moves, it feels confident and imponent, he is a very well constructed character. Another nice aspect is that the way that he aproach the others, he is always stealth and stalker, that makes him even more scarier.
The best thing about this movie, is for sure, the atmosphere that it created, that was special. The stalker aspect of Michael Myers is definely a thing that you can even take to your life, for real, after watching this i literally walk in the street looking 360 around me, because a stalker is such of a believable aspect that it is normal to be scared of that. The showing up and disappearing of him is a desesperate thing, you just never know where he is, or what he gonna do, it is scary as hell. There are some sequences of horror and thriller that are breathtaking, simply terrifying and unpredictable, you know that Michael is gonna get determined character, but he have so many opportunities and you can't be sure in wich one he will pop-up, you be like "he gonna show up now, oh, now", and you got so tense while watching because you can't be sure of nothing, they create an atmosphere that it is both scare, creepy and believable, that is definely a impressive thing. I liked how they didn't forced into jumpscares, they really created thriller situations.
The acting is very good, even that some characters didn't had much to do, they were good. Jamie Lee Curtis was great here, she could first pass that calm and relax school girl, and inch by inch start thinking that she was crazy and seeing things, and finally to the desesperation with us, her character literally got so scared as me. Donald Pleasence did a good job, he could pass some concern tones in his voice that delievered, i totally bought that he trully believed in what he said. Nancy Kyes was also very good, she did had some moments and got me with that not concerning with anything person, that is mad sometimes but generally feel free.
I can't say that i didn't found anything that felt wrong, like the girl being stalked and she don't really do anything about it really felt like a flaw. But the good things here destroy the flaws.
The cinematography of this movie is great, even considering that this had a really low budge, they did a hell of a good job here, they just did it in the best possible way. There are moments that the cinematography say something, script beyond lines, there are moments that they put the character in first person wich also works really well, it had some really great camera position here, and some really nice uses of it as well.
The soundtrack is also great, the sound here is great, they did a very nice sound desing and used really nice musics to implement to the atmosphere that worked perfectly. The main theme of Michael Myers is so good, like so good, it isn't just nice to hear, but everytime that it started i got chills, because i knew that something was about to go on, but not everytime it happened, wich is so great, because even when the theme started i couldn't be sure if something was going to happen or not.
The movie is great, it will get you tense and scared, it isn't predictable, the characters are good, and Myers is outsdanding in his story, in his way to do things, it is for sure one of the best slasher villains in any movie.… Expand
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10
MrTacoBobJul 13, 2017
I cant even say how much I LOVE this movie! It is scary every time I watch it I still get scared for some reason. It is a classic movie that aged perfectly. If you haven't seen it...who are you?
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10
Bernardo_SSep 18, 2018
This is such a great movie! It is suspenseful and also has a great soundtrack with it.
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10
manningn15Oct 21, 2018
Halloween is my favorite horror movie and my 3rd favorite Halloween movie. The writing and story are fantastic. The suspense is spectacularly thrilling and extremely scary. Jamie Lee Curtis's performance as Laurie Strode was stupendous. AlsoHalloween is my favorite horror movie and my 3rd favorite Halloween movie. The writing and story are fantastic. The suspense is spectacularly thrilling and extremely scary. Jamie Lee Curtis's performance as Laurie Strode was stupendous. Also I loved the musical score and soundtrack they were amazing. A+.… Expand
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9
spacebear1Dec 21, 2017
John Carpenter's Halloween is easily the best horror film ever made. The music is so amazing and builds up the tension and suspense. Michael Myers is also such and iconic character and the scariest. In the end, this is an amazing film and isJohn Carpenter's Halloween is easily the best horror film ever made. The music is so amazing and builds up the tension and suspense. Michael Myers is also such and iconic character and the scariest. In the end, this is an amazing film and is definitely worth rewatching probably once every year.… Expand
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7
amheretojudgeNov 2, 2018
makes you sweat and even bleed..

The Halloween Carpenter's psycho thriller is a festive of nothing but purely gripping screenplay that is weaved in for the screen and utterly utilizes its frame for the chills and thrills. Unless any othermakes you sweat and even bleed..

The Halloween

Carpenter's psycho thriller is a festive of nothing but purely gripping screenplay that is weaved in for the screen and utterly utilizes its frame for the chills and thrills. Unless any other horror picture, it doesn't rely upon art designing gore, loud sound effects and manipulative screams, but takes the ticking clock that is slow yet effective to the core. And it's that ticking clock, that makes you care for the characters that revolves around this tensed bubble that makes you sweat and even bleed. It is quick as a snap and lethal as its weapon, it hits hard and fast that leaves you in an awe of it.

The narration isn't that layered, but is surely adaptive and gripping in its simplicity where its linear script is an advantage as it always is, that helps reap the essential crisp and sincerity of the horror that it hopes to impute within the viewers. Carpenter and Hill's screenplay is just like any good recipe, it is created from home made ingredients which is what helps makers connect with the viewers instantly. Curtis may not be a revelation but she is definitely convincing in her stereotypical role that is offered to her in here.

And yes, it's a scream, it's a cry for help and it is all basically escaping with few close calls, but all of it's of good quality in here. There aren't much verbal sparring but when there is one, it is pragmatic and equally nail biting as the breathing sound of the antagonist and all the physical sequences. It isn't scary as much as it accounts for. It definitely is a story worth listening or a case worth listening to. Halloween is Carpenter's romance to the thriller genre, it's not worth sliding by nor is it redefining.… Expand
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7
ahmedaiman9999Oct 23, 2018
Halloween is a remarkable horror film but this in largely down to Carpenter's wonderful ability in building up and creating suspense. Using the POV approach, and a chill-inducing score whenever Michael Myers appears, Carpenter certainly doesHalloween is a remarkable horror film but this in largely down to Carpenter's wonderful ability in building up and creating suspense. Using the POV approach, and a chill-inducing score whenever Michael Myers appears, Carpenter certainly does an effective job of immediately drawing the viewer into the proceedings. But it's the unconventional way of anticipation is the most terrifying thing about the movie.

I loved how Carpenter keeps us hooked for most of the movie (the first hour) just by making us waiting for Myers to strike, and yet nothing happens till the third act. That really made the movie an unsettling and unnerving experience, but also so captivating; my eyes was glued to the screen, TOTALLY!

Leaving us hanging for nearly an hour before Myers begins killing was a difficult challenge, and Carpenter just knocked it out of the park in terms of keeping me enthralled and riveted. That said, the slow-burning narrative and sinister atmosphere weren't enough to make this movie scary for me. Usually, I don't blame the movie for not scaring me when I find there are many things that the movie got right, such as the use of jump scares, simply because I don't get scared from horror movies at all! But I get nervous quite a lot when I watch decent horror flicks, and that didn't happen to me until the last, say, 15-20 minutes of the movie.

Another issue I have with this movie is everything about Donald Pleasance's character. Besides Pleasance's stilted performance, his character's presence along with the Sheriff don't seem to be necessary, and I felt that there would have been no much difference if both Sheriff and Doctor were cut from the film. I found Loomis is just an expository tool that also hasn't been utilized well.

The characters, in general, aren't smarter than those in other slasher horror movies. Case in point, Thomas Doyle who I would only believe his actions if he was 3 or 4 years old! Not to mention, Brian Andrews's performance that was really bad. The character and the performance are the exact opposite of Danny in Kubrick's The Shining!

Needless to say, Jamie Lee Curtis's performance as Laurie is simply stellar. The same goes for the rest of the cast regardless of those who I've mentioned above.

I also didn't like that Myers was depicted as superhuman. I don't know whether the sequels justified that or not, but this definitely didn't work for me. However, I liked so much how Myers looks, and how we didn't see his face as much as we hear him breathing under his mask from a first person POV.

For all its flaws, Halloween will remain a landmark of slasher horror cinema, simply because it has set the standards for horror films in general. Standards that slasher movies have never surpassed to date.

(7/10)… Expand
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10
seanreneauMay 23, 2018
Halloween might just be the greatest horror movie ever. Halloween has great music,great suspense and very entertaining.
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10
coutantOct 5, 2018
Halloween (1978); a film that creates terror from the possible, and the impossible. While the use of mise en scene creates the unnerving setting and atmosphere, it is truly the movies use of sound, editing and choice dialogue which bringsHalloween (1978); a film that creates terror from the possible, and the impossible. While the use of mise en scene creates the unnerving setting and atmosphere, it is truly the movies use of sound, editing and choice dialogue which brings this film to life. The film itself is one of violence and fear- yet does not rely on the gore or supernatural to be "scary" (like many horror films nowadays rely solely on). Some might argue that this film is overrated because of the lack of special effects or excellent 'graphics'. However, with a budget of only 300,000 the film manages to use a wide variety of elements that bring out the films true horror.… Expand
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10
HalloweenFanOct 21, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the greatest any movie has ever been. first of all, the plot, the movie opens with young Michael killing his sister, Judith Myers. 15 years later, he comes back to kill main protagonist, Laurie Strode (who, spoiler alert, turns out to be his other sister) but Sam Lumis comes to stop him by shooting him, but not before Michael gets in some damn awesome kills. Speaking of kills, the kills in here were freaking awesome, especially when Michael kills Bob by pinning him on the wall with a knife. the vest overall scene was when Laurie stabbed Michael with the sewing needle and got him on the ground, with Michael slowly rising in the background, that scared the crap out of me. Eventually, Lumis comes and "kills" Michael, but after looking, Michael disappeared. Overall, the greatest movie of all time… Expand
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10
SebatuanOct 28, 2018
This is movie is tied for scariest slasher along with A Nightmare on Elm Street. The realism of this movie makes it terrifying. The simplicity of this movie as a stand alone film is very impressive. This does hold up today.
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10
I_loveJan 3, 2019
Boring at times, slow at times, one silly kill, but that's it, a creepy movie, it sent shivers down my spine, and had a nice story, it was pretty bad ass
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10
humunguschungusFeb 26, 2019
If you have somehow managed to avoid seeing this landmark film don't worry, it has aged like a fine wine. In contrast to modern slashers that are pure exploration Halloween features a slow and more methodical killer that still eerily enjoysIf you have somehow managed to avoid seeing this landmark film don't worry, it has aged like a fine wine. In contrast to modern slashers that are pure exploration Halloween features a slow and more methodical killer that still eerily enjoys his craft.… Expand
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10
MoviecriticbombMay 15, 2019
This movie is a monster in and of itself. Everything about this movie from the Halloween setup to the simple 2-key music, is scary. The atmosphere sets you up for something so off, while remaining subtle throughout. Every character you seeThis movie is a monster in and of itself. Everything about this movie from the Halloween setup to the simple 2-key music, is scary. The atmosphere sets you up for something so off, while remaining subtle throughout. Every character you see seems isolated in Michael Myers' little world. A killer that you want to know his backstory, but at the same time, it's irrelevant. Because he is the epitome of evil and the part of the world we try so hard to ignore. I highly recommend this movie in every respect. It's a brilliant movie that has meaning and speaks without killing or giving a narrative on what it's about. 10 out of 10. Excellent… Expand
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10
TexasVet0407Jun 1, 2019
John Carpenter's Halloween is not only the godfather of the slasher sub-genre, but also one of the greatest, if not, THE greatest horror film ever made. It is a true horror masterpiece. It tells the immortal story of escaped mental patientJohn Carpenter's Halloween is not only the godfather of the slasher sub-genre, but also one of the greatest, if not, THE greatest horror film ever made. It is a true horror masterpiece. It tells the immortal story of escaped mental patient Michael Myers, who returns to his hometown on Halloween night to stalk and kill a group of babysitters. There are many aspects of this film that make it one of the crowning jewels of the horror genre. First is the setting...it takes place in what appears to be a normal suburban neighborhood. Many of us who grew up in an area such as this can easily identify with the characters. This is the type of neighborhood where you feel safe, but if trouble starts to brew, nobody wants to lift a finger or get involved.

The 'grainy' feel of this film also adds to its legendary prowess. Nowadays, they seem to sharpen up the image of every movie, giving us every possible detail of the monster we are supposed to be afraid of. In Halloween, John Carpenter never really lets us get a complete look at Michael Myers, as he always seems like he is one with the shadows, which is what I believe makes him a truly ominous figure. Overall, it is a genuinely terrifying film that continues to stand the test of time. Now, by today's standards, it isn't as graphic and visceral, but it delivers on all the other levels most horror movies fail to achieve today. The atmosphere that John Carpenter creates is so creepy, and the fact that it is set in a quaint, mid-west town is a testament to his ability. The lighting effects are down right horrifying, with "The Shape" seemingly appearing and disappearing into the shadows at will. The simple yet brutally effective music score only adds to the suspense.

The performances by all the players are well done and worthy of praise. Jamie Lee portrayed Laurie Strode absolutely perfectly, mainly because she is so likable and vulnerable. It is all the more frightening when she is being stalked by Michael Myers because the director and viewer have invested so much into her that we want her to survive and get away.

Donald Pleasance plays Dr. Loomis like a man on a mission. He adds a sense of urgency to the predicament the town finds itself in because he knows what evil stalks their streets.

If the film has one flaw, it would be the passage of time. Since the release of this film nearly 40 years ago, countless clones, copies, rip-offs, and imitators have come along and taken the films best elements and rendered everything about this masterpiece as 'familiar.' Combined with the changes for audience expectations and appetites, one finds much of the films raw power diluted. To truly appreciate it in this day and age, it must be viewed as it once was, as something unique, which it always will be in my eyes as a true horror fiend.… Expand
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10
HorrorseekerAug 29, 2019
A masterpiece from John carpenter the master of Horror filmmaking at the best of bringing influence from Alfred Hitchcock using surprise over suspense and John proves himself to be the master and the Films haunting score performed byA masterpiece from John carpenter the master of Horror filmmaking at the best of bringing influence from Alfred Hitchcock using surprise over suspense and John proves himself to be the master and the Films haunting score performed by carpenter himself using only Keyboards synthesizers are proved to be haunting and Scary… Expand
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7
DMLYxCriticMar 12, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. John Carpenter's Halloween is a classic that has stood the test of time. It is one of the first few films that popularized the slasher horror flicks and spawned many (some bad, some good, some fantastic) films in its wake, along with the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The gore has not aged well, though. For a slasher film, this movie lacked grit and blood, and focused more solely on the ominous buildup, especially with Michael Myers, who is a phantom in this movie. The acting was quite good, although the plot and the story need more expounding. The cinematography is amazingly done, and the musical score was excellent, as well. But overall, this has been a great film to establish the serial killer Michael Myers' lore, and the buildup is something to die for.… Expand
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8
LattelyNov 29, 2020
The beginning of horror films not brilliant but an excellent example how it should be.
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10
DavidN.Sep 2, 2007
The best horror film ever, a masterpiece.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ChristianS.Aug 8, 2009
An Amazing film, Halloween is one of the best horror movies i have ever seen. Classic story, great performances, top notch scares, if you haven't seen it, you are missing out big time. the best in the series.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JosephApr 20, 2006
If I could I'd rate it 10 1/2 but I cant so... Anyways Halloween is the best horror movie ever. Almost everyone of its sequels is good and it started the 80's slasher genre. It is something you have to see if you havent already seen it.
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10
ChrisB.Aug 4, 2006
GREAT!! the best movie ever made. John Carpenter is a GOD. Honestly there are a bunch of cheesy horror movies out there. Halloween is in its own genre. Nothing will ever compare to it!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
WillYAug 15, 2007
One of the best horror movies ever, I noticed someone called it cliche... how? It's a man with a disturbed past, enough so that hate overpowers deaths itself. It's an original movie with good movies and a close-to-home feel. May One of the best horror movies ever, I noticed someone called it cliche... how? It's a man with a disturbed past, enough so that hate overpowers deaths itself. It's an original movie with good movies and a close-to-home feel. May not keep you up at night, but still it makes it scary to walk around a dark house.… Expand
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10
JoseDAug 28, 2007
Whoever calls it cliched obviously doesn't have a clue about this Classic. In 1978 it was the first of it's kind. Let me put it this way, if it wasn't for Halloween, there would never be a Jason, Freddy, Chucky.. etc. Do your Whoever calls it cliched obviously doesn't have a clue about this Classic. In 1978 it was the first of it's kind. Let me put it this way, if it wasn't for Halloween, there would never be a Jason, Freddy, Chucky.. etc. Do your homework before you write a review.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
GavinCJul 26, 2009
Funnily enough, the fact that it wasn't very action-packed seems to be its strength.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ChadEMNov 14, 2007
As good as it gets in the horror genre. "Halloween" is the perfect horror movie: atmospheric, well acted, masterfully directed by John Carpenter, and scary as hell. It is, essentially, a bloodless film, yet it is remembered as a brutal, gory As good as it gets in the horror genre. "Halloween" is the perfect horror movie: atmospheric, well acted, masterfully directed by John Carpenter, and scary as hell. It is, essentially, a bloodless film, yet it is remembered as a brutal, gory slasher movie. Watch it on a late October night with all the lights out and the sound way up, and you'll see why it's the best/scariest horror movie ever.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
mbeckfordOct 24, 2020
The standard-bearer of the slasher genre, the original Halloween still stands the test of time as one of the best horror movies ever made. The shocking opener, the awesome score (which still delivers goosebumps), and "this is how you doThe standard-bearer of the slasher genre, the original Halloween still stands the test of time as one of the best horror movies ever made. The shocking opener, the awesome score (which still delivers goosebumps), and "this is how you do slow-burn horror" setup to the finale bridges generations.… Expand
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7
solomsApr 17, 2015
For everybody who always looking for a good horror movie, here's one. Don't look for the year of the movie, because the best horror movies ever are from the 70's. That Michael Meyers are brilliant.
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10
kyle20ellisSep 9, 2020
There was once a time where I wasn't crazy about horror but over-time I have grown to appreciate it. Halloween really is a true classic of its genre, it is genuinely scary, taut and is pretty much the only movie of the franchise in my opinionThere was once a time where I wasn't crazy about horror but over-time I have grown to appreciate it. Halloween really is a true classic of its genre, it is genuinely scary, taut and is pretty much the only movie of the franchise in my opinion that is not only truly effective after all this time but also where everything works.

Halloween is very well made for starters, with atmospheric lighting and camera angles definite things to like. The score is resolutely haunting, the story is tightly paced and compelling, John Carpenter's direction is superb with some inspired, efficient techniques and while I have heard better the dialogue is good enough with some sharpness and nothing really that stands out as too cheesy or stilted.

The acting is very good, and the characters especially Michael Myers are iconic. Jamie Lee Curtis is more than just a pretty face, her acting seems very genuine and she gives her character welcome gravitas. Donald Pleasance is excellent too, while Michael Myers as a character is the personification of terror.

Halloween also works so well because of its atmosphere. It doesn't rely on excessive and cheap gore to make its point, or frenzied camera angles and the like. What it has is real suspense and genuine jolts especially in the last twenty minutes.

All in all, a true classic. 10/10 Bethany Cox… Expand
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