Film

Autumn is coming. So is Samhain. Are you ready?   I can suddenly smell Autumn in the air and that can only mean one thing …Halloween! I’m not talking about the Halloween with cute ghosts and clowns running through the streets trick ‘r treating, holding out pails to collect treasures of sweets. No. I’m talking about the Halloween with diabolical monsters hiding in the dark, blending in with the clothes in the closet, just waiting for you.   I grew up obsessed with horror classics. Their indelible mark now drives my own horror stories on the page. These vintage monsters make their way into your head, under your bed and into your nightmares. You might be thinking Freddy Kruger from “Nightmare on Elm Street” or Jason Voorhees from “Friday the 13th”. All well and frightening, but where did these iconic demons of death originate from?   The answer takes us back in time to a moment when films weren’t as accessible and books were a terrifying portal into a dimension of fear. Authors. Authors of the mysterious and the macabre, the scientific and the mythical. Authors who never knew their work would resonate throughout history and fuel the imagination of hundreds of other stories that chill us and make us keep the hall light on at night.   Why They Did What They Did Authors of classic horror literature had motivations behind their timeless tales of terror. They intertwined their fears, curiosities and societal concerns into narratives that deeply resonated with their readers. Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker for instance ventured into realms of science and morality through “Frankenstein” and “Dracula.” In these works, they questioned the boundaries between life and death.   These authors skillfully delved into their anxieties crafting stories that revealed humanity’s insatiable thirst for knowledge and the unforeseen repercussions of meddling with nature. Their narratives not only offered entertainment but also explored the darker aspects of human nature provoking readers to contemplate the ethical implications of their own actions. In today’s world, classic horror stories continue to captivate us for reasons beyond thrills. These tales tap into our instincts and deepest fears, creating a connection to our shared vulnerability in the face of the unknown. While times have changed significantly what unsettles us remains timeless. It is this enduring essence that allows classic horror narratives to transcend generations.   As we navigate a changing world, these stories offer an exploration of fear, morality and the limits of comprehension – a journey that provides a cathartic experience. They serve as a reminder that our shared, shadowy intrigue of life is not just a passing fad but an ongoing exploration, into the unexplored territories of our own inner selves.   Frankenstein and The Mummy   Bringing Home The Monsters This year, to celebrate Autumn and the coming of Samhain, take a step into the enthralling realm of classic monsters from the golden age of literature and cinema, where mythical beings and imaginative creations have held our fascination for decades. This exploration invites us to unveil the origins that birthed these iconic figures, some rooted in folklore and mythology while others sprung from the depths of creative minds. The allure of these monsters lies not just in their frightful appearances but in the narratives that brought them to life.   Among the captivating figures, vampires and werewolves stand as timeless symbols of both horror and intrigue. Vampires, often tracing their origins to legends of blood-sucking creatures, have undergone numerous transformations in books and film. One of the most notable sources is Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” a novel that laid the foundation for the modern vampire archetype. Moving from page to screen, the character has been portrayed by actors such as Bela Lugosi, embodying the enigmatic allure of the undead.   Similarly, the werewolf legend, intertwined with stories of humans transformed under the full moon’s glow, has held a place in cultural narratives worldwide. Lon Chaney Jr.’s portrayal of “The Wolf Man” helped cement this creature’s status in classic horror cinema. The werewolf’s inner conflict between humanity and savagery has continued to captivate audiences over the years.   Shifting our focus to mummies and Frankenstein’s monster, we uncover stories of reanimation and resurrection. Mummies, rooted in ancient Egyptian mythology, found their way into films like “The Mummy” series, often characterized by cursed tombs and vengeful spirits. On the other hand, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” explored the implications of playing god by reanimating life, an ethical dilemma that resonates to this day. This tale inspired an array of adaptations, the most iconic of which features Boris Karloff as the misunderstood monster.   If these narratives beckon you, don’t miss the opportunity to delve into the original literary works that paved the way for these cinematic treasures. Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” (circa 1897) and Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” (circa 1818) provide an immersive experience into the minds that conceived these monsters, allowing readers to uncover the nuanced layers that often get lost in adaptation.   Nosferatu and The Bride of Frankenstein   Embrace The Dark As you embark on your journey through the eerie ambiance of Autumn, what better time to indulge in a cinematic journey through the classic monsters? Whether it’s immersing yourself in the chilling portrayal of Dracula by Bela Lugosi or witnessing Lon Chaney Jr.’s transformation into The Wolf Man, these movies transport us to a bygone era of horror that remains captivating even in the modern age.   If you’re curious about where to catch these classic films, various avenues await. Many local cinemas and theaters host special screenings, offering an opportunity to relive the thrill on the big screen. Additionally, streaming platforms often curate selections of classic movies, making it easier than ever to revisit or discover these gems from the comfort of your own home.   So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights and prepare for an evening of spine-tingling delight as you traverse the golden age of classic monster cinema. These legends continue to enthrall and terrify, reminding