I have a new favorite podcast, horroretc (horror etcetera). If you love horror, are deeply nostalgic, and like knowledgeable but fun discussion of your favorite flicks, check them out. They don't ramble like most podcasters.
In the process of catching up on their 150 shows, I came across Episode 80, Kid Friendly Horror, and thought back to my younger days, those spent watching Svengoolie and renting videos from the local shop (or having my mom rent them ... whatever). Though I started out pretty early watching things I shouldn't have (Vampyros Lesbos anyone?), I have so many memories of those kid-geared early flicks that were the right mix of creepy and comforting.
Something Wicked This Way Comes - Honestly I can't remember a thing from this movie other than some magical light and advanced aging and a guy with a great beard, but I remember loving it. I think a teacher of mine actually showed it in class.
The Witches - I wonder do kids have people like Roald Dahl today, a man that writes funny but disturbing tales that refuse to mistake the audience's youth for stupidity. The Witches brought Dahl's special blend of crazy, funny, and creepy to the screen pretty well (despite the happy ending). With Angelica Houston, you really can't go wrong. I swear, everytime this movie magically finds its way onscreen, I forget how shitty it is to be an adult and get all warm and happy inside. Jim Henson was involved!
The Monster Squad - I think I've mentioned my love for Night of the Creeps numerous times. Fred Dekker was responsible for that masterpiece and this one, an homage to childhood and the classic pantheon of monsters. Another I have to rewatch since I haven't seen it in a while but undoubtedly one of the best from that period.
The Gate - Remember The Gate! Man, that was my stuff (not to be confused with The Stuff). All I remember is a gate (of course) and some kids and a portal to hell, but boy was that combination fantastic. I now know that it stars a young Stephen Dorff. Who knew?
The Lady in White - Man!!!! This movie used to come on what felt like all the time. So atmospheric, this film. A true ghost story that creates a mood that is sustained the entire time. If you've never seen it, do.
Transylvania 6-5000 - Does anyone remember this? It was fantastic. Jeff Goldblum stars as a dude who travels to Transylvannia for a story, but that's not really important. What's important is that this movie is completely silly and hilarious. They just don't make them like this anymore.
Haunted Honeymoon - Gene Wilder and Gilda Ratner star as a couple who honeymoon in a haunted castle (I think). Another horror/comedy that just cracked me up as a yute. I miss that Gilda Ratner.
It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown - Okay so this isn't quite a horror flick, but it is Halloween-themed, so it counts. I love the Peanuts features; they always make me so happy and sad at the same time. This one's an annual favorite.
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