Welcome to the Spooktacular Side of the Internet, Boils and Ghouls!

Hey there, fright fans and monster maniacs! Welcome to our little corner of the web, where we celebrate the creepy, the kooky, and the downright ooky all year round. But let’s face it, October is when we really shine… or should I say, when our jack-o’-lanterns really glow?

If you’re new here, don’t be scared! We don’t bite… much. This blog is for everyone who’s ever thought, “You know what this Tuesday needs? More vampires.” Or for those who believe that werewolves are just misunderstood puppies with an excess hair problem. And let’s not forget our mummy enthusiasts – we know you’re out there, all wrapped up in your hobby!

Here, we discuss everything from classic monster movies (did you know Dracula’s cape was actually a repurposed curtain?) to modern horror flicks (where apparently cell phones never have reception). We’ve got trivia that’ll make your head spin (though not 360 degrees, we’re not in “The Exorcist”), crafts that are to die for, and recipes that are scary good.

So whether you’re a seasoned horror buff who can recite every line from “The Wolf Man,” or a newbie who thinks Frankenstein is the name of the monster (spoiler: it’s not), you’re in for a treat. No tricks, we promise… unless you’re into that sort of thing.

Stick around, hang like a bat, or shuffle like a zombie through our posts. We’re thrilled to have you join our little coven of horror lovers. And remember, in the wise words of Gomez Addams, “Normal is an illusion. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly.”

Now, let’s get this party startled!

Your ghoul-friend in all things spooky, [Your Name]

P.S. If you hear any bumps in the night while reading my blog, don’t worry. It’s probably just the wind… or is it? evil laugh

Here is a detailed list of the old black and white movies we all love! Below this you will find 13 Nights of Halloween! I hope you find something from this list to watch to stay creepy!

Dracula (1931) “Dracula” was directed by Tod Browning and starred Bela Lugosi in his defining role. The film was based on a stage play adaptation of Bram Stoker’s novel. Lugosi’s portrayal of Count Dracula, with his slicked-back hair, formal attire, and mesmerizing gaze, became the definitive vampire look for generations. The film’s success launched Universal’s monster movie era and spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs. Interestingly, a Spanish-language version was shot simultaneously on the same sets at night, which some critics consider superior in its cinematography and pacing.

Frankenstein (1931) Directed by James Whale, “Frankenstein” starred Boris Karloff as the Monster. The film deviated significantly from Mary Shelley’s novel but created an enduring image of Frankenstein’s creation. Jack Pierce’s iconic makeup design for the Monster, with its flat-top head, neck bolts, and heavy brow, has become synonymous with the character. The film tackles themes of playing God, the nature of humanity, and the consequences of rejection and isolation. Its sequel, “Bride of Frankenstein” (1935), is often considered even better than the original.

The Mummy (1932) Also starring Boris Karloff, “The Mummy” was directed by Karl Freund. The film was inspired by the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 and the subsequent “mummy’s curse” hysteria. Karloff’s performance as Imhotep required hours of makeup application. The film blends elements of horror and romance, as Imhotep searches for the reincarnation of his lost love. While later mummy films focused more on bandaged, shambling monsters, this original portrayal presented a more subtle, psychological threat.

The Wolf Man (1941) Directed by George Waggner, “The Wolf Man” starred Lon Chaney Jr. as Larry Talbot. The film established much of the werewolf lore that’s now considered standard, including vulnerability to silver and the full moon transformation. The movie’s transformation scenes were groundbreaking for their time, using time-lapse photography and dissolves to show Talbot’s painful change. The Wolf Man is often seen as a tragic figure, cursed to become a monster against his will, adding a layer of pathos to the horror.

Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) This film, directed by Jack Arnold, came later in Universal’s monster cycle and was originally shown in 3D. The Gill-man costume, designed by Millicent Patrick (though long credited to Bud Westmore), was a masterpiece of creature design. The underwater scenes, filmed in Florida springs, were revolutionary and added a unique dimension to the horror. The film also touched on environmental themes, with the creature positioned as a product of nature disturbed by human intervention.

Abbott and Costello Meet… (1948-1955) This series of films paired Universal’s classic monsters with the comedy duo of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello. It began with “Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein” (1948), which featured Bela Lugosi reprising his role as Dracula. The series continued with the comedians meeting the Killer, Boris Karloff, the Invisible Man, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and the Mummy. These films blended comedy with horror, often poking fun at the conventions of the monster movies while still delivering scares. They played a significant role in introducing these classic monsters to a new, younger audience and demonstrated the versatility of these iconic characters.

These films not only defined the horror genre for decades but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. Their influence extends beyond cinema into literature, art, and even fashion. The universal themes they explored – fear of the unknown, the dangers of scientific progress, the nature of humanity – continue to resonate with audiences today, ensuring their place in the pantheon of classic cinema.

Many of these classic monster movies are available through various platforms and services. Here’s a general guide on where you might find them:

1. Streaming Services:
   • Some of these films occasionally appear on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Hulu. However, their availability can vary depending on your region and the time of year.
   • Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, often features Universal’s classic monster movies, especially around Halloween.
2. Specialized Streaming Services:
   • The Criterion Channel sometimes includes classic horror films in their rotating selection.
   • Shudder, a streaming service dedicated to horror, occasionally features these classics.
3. Digital Rental/Purchase:
   • Most of these films are available for digital rental or purchase on platforms like iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, or Amazon.
4. Cable TV:
   • Turner Classic Movies (TCM) often airs these films, especially during October.
   • AMC’s “FearFest” programming in October sometimes includes Universal monster movies.
5. Physical Media:
   • Many of these films are available on DVD and Blu-ray, both individually and in collector’s sets.
6. Public Domain:
   • Some older horror films have entered the public domain and can be found for free on sites like Internet Archive or YouTube.

It’s worth noting that availability can change over time, and not all of these options may be available in every country. Additionally, some services may require a subscription or rental fee.

For the most up-to-date information on where to watch a specific film, I’d recommend using a search engine or a movie availability aggregator website, which can show you current streaming and rental options for your region.

13 Nights of Halloween

1. “Halloween” (1978) – The iconic slasher film that launched the career of Jamie Lee Curtis.
2. “The Exorcist” (1973) – Often considered one of the greatest horror films of all time.
3. “Ghostbusters” (1984) – A comedy classic with supernatural elements.
4. “Hocus Pocus” (1993) – A family-friendly Halloween favorite.
5. “The Shining” (1980) – Stanley Kubrick’s psychological horror masterpiece.
6. “Beetlejuice” (1988) – Tim Burton’s quirky supernatural comedy.
7. “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984) – Introducing the infamous Freddy Krueger.
8. “Practical Magic” (1998) – A witch-themed romantic comedy.
9. “The Blair Witch Project” (1999) – The found-footage horror that sparked a subgenre.
10. “Scream” (1996) – A self-aware slasher that revitalized the genre.
11. “The Addams Family” (1991) – A darkly comic take on the classic TV series.
12. “Poltergeist” (1982) – A supernatural thriller about a haunted suburban home.
13. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” (1966) – A beloved animated Halloween special.

This list mixes different subgenres and includes options for various age groups. However, it’s important to note that actual TV programming may differ. Channels like Freeform (formerly ABC Family), AMC, and SyFy often run Halloween movie marathons, but their exact lineups can change from year to year.

If you’re interested in a specific channel’s “13 Days of Halloween” lineup for the current year, I’d recommend checking their official website or TV listings closer to October, as they typically announce their schedules a few weeks before the event starts.

HAPPY WATCHING!