Paul Tremblay on Horror

A master of the genre on a new Writers Panel

Paid subscribers: don’t miss the Q&A recording with Jenny Klein at the bottom of this post!

Author Paul Tremblay (The Beast You Are; The Cabin at the End of the World) discusses writing horror short stories, turning the personal into the terrifying, and more for today’s special Halloween episode!

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Fright Gallery

Last bunch of horror movie recommendations for your viewing terror tonight, then we’re back to our regular Re:Writing in November. Previous recs here, here, here, and here.

The Ritual (2017) was such a pleasant surprise. Obviously, the best part of horror movies is when the characters are just hanging out and we’re learning about their personal squabbles, the things that will become amplified once the horror starts. The Ritual has a good deal of that, and the characters are so specifically and solidly written and performed, that you almost hope the genre elements don’t kick in. But then they do, and it’s not at all what you expect. Really enjoy this one. It’s on Netflix, last I checked.

Cure (1997) is a properly creepy and creeping psychological thriller that you’re never quite sure if it’s going to tip into the supernatural. If you’re in the mood for a quiet night with the blinds shut and the lights out, immerse yourself in this one. It’s just so compelling and understated, and the long dialogue scenes feel like hauntings.

Most horror fans have seen it, but The Bride of Frankenstein (1935) is always worth a rewatch. Almost 90 years later, it’s still utterly entertaining, thanks to the heathy dose of theatrical humor infused by director James Whale, who, after the successes of Frankenstein (1931) and The Invisible Man (1933) was allowed a lot of creative freedom. But grounding the whole affair, an important aspect that keeps the movie from tornadoing into camp, are the stunning, empathetic performances by Boris Karloff as the Monster and Elsa Lanchester as the Bride. They bring a melancholy to the proceedings that makes you love the creatures more than fear them.

Also, this might be my favorite part of any movie:

What are your Halloween plans? We usually have cocktails in our yard with our neighbors and hand out candy to the trick of treaters before heading inside for a not-too-scary movie. It’s fun time! Do you have (ahem) rituals? What kind of candy do you hand out? Have you tried those Trader Joe’s knock-offs of classic candy bars? They’re better than the originals!

Below the paywall is the recording with Jenny Klein from earlier this month. It’s a great one. Want to listen and attend the 11/18 Q&A with Ben Edlund (The Tick)? Upgrade your subscription now!