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TOPIC
Why 'Halloween' (2018) Sucks
By Sal LoCicero | October 15, 2021
Over 40 years ago, composer/writer/director John Carpenter introduced the world to a quiet but deadly serial killer Michael Myers; the devil in disguise. With a budget of $325,000, Carpenter has become one of the most impactful filmmakers of all time. From a small story about a serial killer who went berserk as a child on Halloween night to a franchise of (now) twelve movies; including both sequels and remakes, all dedicated to defeating Michael Myers.
When it was announced that Universal and Blumhouse Pictures were producing a new ‘Halloween’ movie, it was exciting to hear. The word had spread that they were going to try something original with their new movie; ignoring all the previous installments that came before Carpenter’s film. Everything seemed to go according to plan…that was until Universal hired David Gordon Green (Pineapple Express) to write and direct, along with Danny McBride (This Is The End, Pineapple Express) as co-writer. Given that both David Green and McBride have not encountered the horror genre, hopes began to decrease. Many questioned the studio’s choice, why them and not someone who’s worked on horror movies before?
Despite backlash, Universal made their decision and began production. A few weeks before the release, critics praised the new movie and all fan expectations flew through the roof. ‘Halloween (2018)’ grossed over $255 Million worldwide, with a certified fresh score on RT. And while it is understandable as to why both critics and audiences enjoyed it, the movie wasn’t entirely accurate to the source material.
One of the main reasons why Halloween (78’) is still frightening to this day, is because it was filled with such a high amount of suspense. The fact that a boogeyman, who lingered through the night, would kill anyone who got in his way, never spoke a word, always hiding around and suspicion that he could be right behind you, is terrifying. John Carpenter knew how to handle his story. Halloween (2018) is not about the suspense, it’s about the jump scares and gore.
It never feels like a true Halloween movie, instead it comes off as a typical modern slasher flick. Blumhouse production has become the home for many big horror movies, such as ‘Paranormal Activity’, ‘The Purge’, and ‘Get Out’; which are all box office winners. Nowadays, if a horror movie, that is not low budget, is green-lit and scheduled for production, usually Blumhouse is included in the project.
Since Hollywood decided to make another Halloween movie in the 21st century, Blumhouse is of course going to collaborate on the film with Universal Pictures. Yet that is one of the issues with Halloween (2018). It doesn’t steer clear from typical cliques that have been around in modern horror, in fact that is the only thing it depends on to keep the movie running. With terrible writing, useless background characters, as much blood and gore you need to ‘satisfy’ moviegoers, and a set up for another cash grabbing sequel, it becomes exactly opposite from what these movies should be.
The filmmakers lack most of the effort to show their appreciation for Carpenter’s work. Whenever the sequel pays homage to the original is when you actually feel like you’re watching a movie that understands exactly what it needs to accomplish. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case. Instead, we are given unnecessary humor - that is far from funny, predictable death scenes, and one of the most foolish twists in cinematic history - all of which worsens the potential.
Like many long running franchises, the Halloween franchise is going to die out soon. Some of the sequels are enjoyable, but at the end of the day, just watch the original movie and you’ll be happy.
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