Best Horror of October: ‘Terrifier 3,’ ‘Salem’s Lot,’ Melissa Barrera in ‘Your Monster’ and More

As a horror enthusiast who’s been chasing the thrill since my teenage years hiding under blankets during late-night viewings of “Friday the 13th,” I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement looking over this list. The upcoming releases and events promise to deliver a dose of terror that’ll make even the bravest souls quiver in their boots.

Hello! You’re warmly welcomed to Horror Discovery, a specially selected feature highlighting this month’s top movies, series, books, and all things eerie that are worth exploring. I’m William Earl, the editor of EbMaster.com, also known as the resident horror fanatic of our publication. Feel free to reach out to me at wearl@variety.com if you have something intriguing for next month’s edition.

Marquee Madness

“Salem’s Lot” (Debuting on Max on Oct. 3) — One of Stephen King’s best books gets a feature adaptation, the first since Tobe Hooper’s 1979 miniseries. The plot concerns vampires in a small town, and the specificity of King’s details adds warmth and color to the world. Footage from this new version — starring Lewis Pullman, Alfre Woodard, William Sadler and Bill Camp — looks promising.

“It’s What’s Inside” (Debuting on Netflix on Oct. 4) — Netflix spent $17 million to buy this buzzy sci-fi horror comedy out of Sundance, and given its Gen Z appeal, they’re likely to get their money’s worth. The plot concerns a group of 20-somethings who try out a magic device that lets their souls switch bodies within their friend group. But as identities get blurred and sex, drugs and violence come into the mix, it becomes a wacky, stylish genre mashup. (Read EbMaster’s full review here.)

“Terrifier 3” (Opening in theaters on Oct. 11 from Cineverse) — Art the Clown returns in the newest chapter of this stomach-churning series. The kills are somehow even grosser than “Terrifier 2,” as this Christmas season-set film features plenty of scenes with Art dressed as Santa and terrorizing kids. Results may vary with this franchise, as it’s awash in blood, but Art’s nemesis Sienna (Lauren LaVera) returns to take her foe down for good.

“Smile 2” (Opening in theaters on Oct. 18 from Paramount Pictures) — Parker Finn’s 2022 hit “Smile” was a gory slice of new horror lore, with victims of a malevolent entity sporting an eerily big grin before suddenly committing suicide. Finn returns for the sequel, which follows Naomi Scott as a pop star experiencing the same phenomenon. The trailer for this chapter looks promising, with a solid supporting cast including Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Ray Nicholson and Kyle Gallner.

“Cuckoo” on VOD (Now available from Neon) — If you missed Tilman Singer’s bonkers sophomore feature in theaters, it’s time to catch up. Hunter Schafer is excellent at trying to solve the mysteries of a remote resort in the Alps, and Dan Stevens is a delight as the quirky head of the operation. It’s a strange and stylish affair that is sure to gain a cult audience. (Read EbMaster’s full review here.)

“A Nightmare on Elm Street” on 4K UHD Blu-ray (Available Oct. 15 from New Line Cinema) — My favorite horror movie of all time gets the definitive release, with perfect picture and sound and a collection of decades of special features, including a director’s commentary with the late Wes Craven, behind the scenes footage and an uncut version of the film.

Off the Beaten Path

Brace Yourself!”: (Making its premiere on Hulu through Searchlight Pictures on Oct. 3) – Despite the mixed opinions, the idea of Sarah Paulson shielding her family from a dangerous force during the Dust Bowl is incredibly intriguing. (Check out EbMaster‘s complete review here.)

On October 4, Director Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia brings us the follow-up to his 2019 Spanish film, ‘The Platform,’ a vertical prison satire. In this grim yet captivating story, the inhabitants of a tower-like prison facility have an unusual routine: Those at the top are served a lavish meal each day, which trickles down through the levels, creating conflict between the fortunate and disadvantaged as resources dwindle.

On October 4, the horror anthology series “V/H/S/Beyond” makes its premiere on Shudder – long live this exciting genre! The seventh installment in the V/H/S franchise brings together all the short films under a common sci-fi theme. Some noteworthy entries include “Stowaway,” directed by Kate Siegel for her first feature film and written by Mike Flanagan, as well as “Fur Babies,” which was penned and helmed by Justin Long and his brother Christian Long.

Experience the wildest film of the year as ‘Frankie Freako’ hits theaters on October 4, courtesy of Shout! Studios. This wacky take on ‘Gremlins’, directed by Steven Kostanski (‘Psycho Goreman’), brings a fresh twist when an uptight man (Conor Sweeney) dials a mysterious 1-900 number to summon the free-spirited titular character. However, when Frankie and his gang of puppet pals show up, things take a turn for the bizarre, becoming nothing short of ‘Freako’. This outrageous and hilarious addition to the Lil’ Stinker genre, popular in the ’80s, is not to be missed!

I’m thrilled about the upcoming movie, “Caddo Lake” (debuting on Max on Oct. 10), which was brought to life by the brilliant M. Night Shyamalan. In this bayou-set mystery, Dylan O’Brien and Eliza Scanlen team up to find a missing girl, uncovering secrets as they delve deeper into the enigmatic landscape. With Shyamalan at the helm, it’s a project I can’t wait to see. The intriguing trailer hints at a captivating storyline and visually stunning cinematography – I can hardly wait!

The film titled ‘Daddy’s Head‘ makes its premiere on Shudder on Oct. 11 – this chilling and visually stunning exploration of grief by writer-director Benjamin Barfoot is undeniably scary, as it revolves around a young boy who perceives his deceased father appearing in animal forms under increasingly unsettling circumstances.

On Hulu, starting October 11th, the horror movie titled “Mr. Crocket” promises an intriguing plot twist: A children’s entertainer emerges from the television screen while the kids are under a trance, abducting them and murdering their parents. Although some early reviews suggest that the script may be overly bloated, the creative killings and atmospheric set design make it an interesting watch.

Stay Put” (Premiering on Netflix on Oct. 25) – This nail-biting cat-and-mouse thriller produced by Sam Raimi has an enticing premise: A murderer (Finn Wittrock, known for “American Horror Story”) administers a swiftly acting paralytic to his victim (Kelsey Asbille, famously from “Yellowstone”). The victim must now struggle to break free and seek aid before she loses the ability to move or speak. We’re hooked already!

Opening in theaters on Oct. 25, from Vertical Entertainment, is “Your Monster“, a delightful romantic comedy featuring Melissa Barrera as a woman and Tommy Dewey as her charming closet monster. This lighthearted take on contemporary relationships is an ideal pick for those seeking a touch of the “spooky” without the “scary”. (For more details, read EbMaster‘s comprehensive review here.)

If you haven’t seen the thoughtful exploration of a father’s sorrow presented subtly as eerie occurrences, titled “Whisper from the Grave“, it’s highly recommended for a watch. This film offers a gradual build-up of suspense through chilling visuals and ambiance rather than relying on startling jumpscare tactics. The solid acting of Samuel Dunning ensures an engaging viewing experience.

Killer Series

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but recommend “Agatha All Along” currently streaming on Disney+. If you’re a fan of movies like “Hocus Pocus,” you’ll find this one equally enjoyable. Even if you’re not a Marvel aficionado, the captivating performances by Kathryn Hahn, Aubrey Plaza, and Patti LuPone in this spooky tale will definitely tickle your fancy. For a more detailed review, check out EbMaster‘s insights here.

Excitement! ‘Hysteria!’ debuts on Oct. 18th on Peacock – This intriguing small-town murder mystery drama sets off with a thrill, as killings in the ’80s are suspiciously linked to alleged Devil worshippers amidst the Satanic Panic frenzy. Featuring lively acts from stars like Julie Bowen and Anna Camp, ‘Hysteria!’ occasionally veers into the absurd, but overall offers a delightfully chilling Halloween experience.

Chilling Podcasts

We Can’t Stand Movies, But We Love Making Fun of Them!” Each October, our reliably humorous program dedicated to bad films prepares unique programming to honor Halloween. This year is no exception as we delve into the fourth installments of horror series, such as “Wishmaster: The Prophecy Fulfilled,” “Land of the Dead,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master,” and “Leprechaun 4: In Space.” Although these movies can be quite lengthy, our show never fails to bring laughter.

There Might Be Some Discomfort Ahead” – After completing a chilling analysis of the “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” series in our horror franchise podcast, we’re now venturing into the comparatively lighter territory of the five (yes, five!) “Critters” movies for October. The phrase “There Might Be Some Discomfort Ahead” serves as a fun way to indulge our completist instincts, even when wading through numerous sequels.

Bloodcurdling Books

X – The Novel, penned by Tim Waggoner – Movie novelizations are experiencing a resurgence, with A24 leading the charge by revisiting the “X” trilogy through this series of books inspired by Ti West’s films. In this first installment, author Tim Waggoner expands the original slasher tale in a vintage-cool paperback edition. Look forward to the release of ‘Pearl’ in November and ‘MaXXXine’ in early 2025.

The horror movie ‘Terrifier 2’, directed by Damien Leone and published on October 8th through Titan Books, is receiving a novelization before the release of its third installment. This massive film will have a detailed 400-page companion novel that delves into everything you’ve ever wanted to learn about the character Art the Clown but were too afraid to ask.

Under the title “Shock Induction” by Chuck Palahniuk (Oct. 8 via Simon & Schuster), Palahniuk returns with his newest satirical work, set in a world where top-performing high school students mysteriously vanish. Initially believed to be suicides, the truth unveils that these students are under the watchful eyes of billionaires, who are exploiting their talents for their own gain. In this concise book, Palahniuk employs a fresh writing approach, delivering fast-paced narrative filled with grand concepts and dark wit.

Titled “The Queen” by Nick Cutter (out Oct. 29 via Gallery Books), Cutter has built a reputation on HorrorTok with chilling stories like “The Troop” and “The Deep.” His latest novel revolves around an unusual friendship between two young women, taking a grim turn that becomes progressively grotesque. While it’s highly recommended, readers who recoil at detailed descriptions of insects may want to pass on this one.

Frightening Festivals

Beyond Fest (September 25-October 9 in Los Angeles) – This genre festival’s world premieres for the year include Gary Dauberman’s adaptation of “Salem’s Lot”, a re-edit version of Mike Flanagan’s “Hush” titled “Shush Cut”, and Jean Luc Herbulot’s suspenseful thriller “Zero” with a ticking clock motif.

Screamfest (October 8-17 in Los Angeles) – This L.A. horror event showcases the global debuts of chilling films such as “Carved,” “Drained” by Sean Patrick Cronin and Peter Stylianous, and “ALO – Antropophagus Legacy” by Dario Germani.

Attending the exhilarating Brooklyn Horror Film Festival (Oct. 17-24 in Brooklyn, N.Y.) is something I can’t wait for! This year, they’ve got some fantastic world premieres lined up that I’m really excited about. For instance, the Fiona Dourif-starrer “Psychonaut” promises to be a thrilling ride. Another one not to miss is “House of Ashes,” directed by the talented Izzy Lee. Last but not least, I’m looking forward to catching the first three episodes of the new Screambox series, “Tales From the Void.” It’s going to be an unforgettable horror-filled week in the heart of New York City!

2024-10-01 23:19