Spooky movies promise to scare
Aidan Janssen, Designer Editor

With Halloween rapidly approaching, people are naturally going to be searching for ways to participate in the spooky season. While going to parties and trick-or-treating may be up some people’s alleys, many prefer to stay inside and enjoy the comforts of their own home. Whether you are hanging out with family and friends, or just vibing alone, here are some great films to scratch the hallowing itch.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993 PG)
Directed by the inventive mind of Tim Burton, “The Nightmare before Christmas” tells the story of Jack Skellingtons (Danny Elfman) discovery and eventual takeover of Christmas Town. The film expertly fits the criteria to be both a Halloween movie and a Christmas movie. Using a distinct claymation artstyle, the film is able to portray both side’s spirit and simultaneously give off the “Tim Burton feel.” A mix of creative writing, interesting set pieces, catchy music, and a compelling cast of characters gives ‘“he Nightmare before Christmas” instant status as a classic film that the whole family can enjoy.

Donnie Darko (2001 R)
Born out of the mind of Richard Kelly, “Donnie Darko’” chronicles the journey of highschooler Donald Darko (Jake Gyllenhaal) as he navigates internal mental and the questions he wants answers to with his rabbit-costumed friend Frank by his side. The film is very subtle in terms of the themes placed into its narrative, truly an English teacher’s dream. Once the theme becomes clear, the brilliant use of setting, characters, and atmosphere, make for one of the most satisfying and chilling films of all time.

Predator (1987 R)
Directed by John McTiernan, “Predator” tells the story of Dutch (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and his squad of soldiers, who are sent into the jungles of Guatemala. However, as the group returns from the wild, they discover that an alien known as “Predator” is hunting them. The extraterrestrial is intent on killing the best human specimen, and it becomes Dutch’s task to bring his companions out alive. The highlights of this film are the characters, each one compelling in their own right. The jungle creates an almost perfect location for the story to take place in as it supports the film’s greatest aspect: the tension built from seeing beloved characters hunted.

Young Frankenstein (1974 PG)
Risen from the comedic mind of Mel Brooks, “Young Frankenstein,” is a parody of the original “Frankenstien,” released in 1931. The parody version follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, a physician who becomes greatly upset whenever someone mentions his grandfather, the mad scientist Victor Frankenstein. After inheriting his family’s estate, Frederick Frankenstein proceeds to create a monster which causes mayhem in a nearby town. This timeless American classic combines comedy with light-horror elements to create a dance of two unlike concepts.