Halloween 2018 | Film, TV and Book Binge Fest

The spookiest day of the year is fast approaching but with shopping aisles that have been prematurely stocked with overpriced witch hats and ‘spooky’ sweets since September 1^st, we’ve had plenty of time to get into the spirit of Halloween.

I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling extra halloweeny this year. I think this might be largely down to the fact there’s tonnes of creepy film and TV releases (when normally we’re grateful for just one). Critics are saying we’re entering the era of horror, as it’s never been this mainstream before.

So, if you’re not up to facing the newly dark nights and bitter, bitter cold – why not stay in, light some pumpkin scented candles and crack open that bag of sweets you were saving for the trick or treaters?  And since, Halloween falls on the middle of the week this year, there’s all the more reason to settle in with a scary book, film and/or TV show.  

Trick or Treat Films 

New: Halloween (2018) | Directed by David Gordon Green

Jamie Lee Kurtis is BACK for her most loved role as Laurie Strodes. For a franchise sequel of a cult classic, this film has surprisingly okay reviews hailing its committed cast and excellent score. If you’re a fan of the franchise or even a pair of fresh eyes – this dread-inducing slasher movie will be a great choice if you plan on venturing out to the cinema.

Old: Halloween (1978) | Directed by John Carpenter

If you don’t feel like going outside at all, then why not relive the original Halloween movie by horror movie royalty, John Carpenter. You can’t say you’re a horror movie fan until you’ve watched this ultimate classic. It’s aged incredibly well, wasting little time on anything other the making you hide behind a pillow. Perfect.

Very old: Psycho (1960) | Directed and produced by Alfred Hitchcock

If you’re more of classic film buff then suspense king, Hitchcock will provide you with some great viewing. Pyscho, arguably his most famous film, has been labelled as a genre-defining classic that provides film-lovers with delicious shots and an incredible original score.

Spooky TV

Very New: The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina 

Created by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa

90’s nostalgia, teen angst, and a spooky atmosphere – could this get any better? Well, apparently it could. The reviews are somewhat mixed, the Guardian gave it 3 stars where others have binged watched the whole thing already. But, if this is everything you love in a TV show as it is for me, then definitely save this Sabrina the teenage witch reboot for Halloween night. Its available now on Netlflix!

New: Haunting of Hill House 

Created by Mike Flanagan

Based on the 1959 novel, Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson, who once said…

“No one can get into a novel about a haunted house without hitting the subject of reality head-on; either I have to believe in ghosts, which I do, or I have to write another kind of novel altogether.”

This eerie delight based on vulnerability and fear will make you leave all the lights on.

Oldish: Bates Motel 

(Not to be confused with the 1987 film Bates Motel )

From the producers of Lost, this prequel to Hitchcock’s Psycho, set in present time, is perfect for an ultimate spooky binge. The TV series helps unravel and explain the psyche behind Pyscho’s main character, Norman Bates by letting us explore his adolescent years.

Suggestion: binge watch all five seasons and then watch Psycho (if you haven’t already).

Eerie Books

New: Elevation by Stephen King

Another reason as to why Halloween is extra halloweeny this year… The horror king (excuse the pun), Stephen King, is releasing a new book called ‘Elevation’. You can pre-order this book so you have it in time for Halloween. An eerie story about a man who’s affliction seems to bring the whole town together. 

Old: Pet Semetary by Stephen King

In 2019, a new release of the Pet Semetary will be gracing the cinema. So, why not read the Stephen King classic beforehand. It’s extremely dark and gripping – you can expect no less from this masterful storyteller.

Very old: Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier

Daphne Du Maurier’s bestselling novel is a mysterious tale about past lives that live on and it’s perfect for Halloween and the autumn and winter months. It’s got everything from complex betrayals, murder to feminist themes (it was recently chosen for the feminist book club).

So lock your doors, light your pumpkins and stay spooky this Halloween!  - I'll be right back!