Halloween is the perfect time of year to indulge in your love for horror movies, and this year, why not combine that with a bit of wanderlust? Horror movies set in tourist destinations have a unique appeal, as they juxtapose the beauty of a vacation spot with spine-tingling scares. As Halloween 2023 approaches, here are five of the best tourist-on-vacation horror movies to add to your watchlist.
"The Shining," a 1980 film directed by Stanley Kubrick, is a landmark in the horror genre. Adapted from Stephen King's novel, the movie tells the story of the Torrance family, who become the winter caretakers of the ominous Overlook Hotel. As isolation and supernatural occurrences take a toll on the family, the film explores themes of madness, isolation, and the evil influence of the hotel itself. Jack Nicholson's iconic portrayal of Jack Torrance and the eerie cinematography have cemented "The Shining" as a classic. Its enigmatic symbolism and unsettling atmosphere continue to captivate audiences, making it a pivotal work in cinematic history.
"The Texas Chain Saw Massacre," released in 1974 and directed by Tobe Hooper, is a seminal horror film that significantly impacted the genre. The story follows a group of friends who, while travelling through rural Texas, encounter a family of cannibalistic killers, including the infamous Leatherface. The film's gritty, documentary-style approach and intense violence shocked audiences and ushered in a new era of horror cinema. "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" is celebrated for its low-budget, visceral realism and influence on subsequent horror films. It remains a cult classic that continues to terrify and captivate viewers, cementing its place in horror film history.
"House" is a 1977 Japanese horror film directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi. Known for its surreal and unconventional approach to horror, the film tells the story of a schoolgirl who visits her aunt's haunted house and her friends. What unfolds is a bizarre, nightmarish series of events defying conventional storytelling. "House" is celebrated for its avant-garde and visually striking style, combining horror, comedy, and surrealism elements. The film's imaginative and unpredictable sequences, including carnivorous furniture and a vengeful cat, have made it a cult classic, adored by fans of unconventional cinema. "House" is a unique and eccentric entry in the horror genre.
"The Descent" is a 2005 British horror film directed by Neil Marshall. The story revolves around a group of female friends who embark on a caving expedition in the Appalachian Mountains, only to encounter nightmarish creatures lurking in the underground caves. The film is renowned for its claustrophobic and intense atmosphere, as well as its strong female ensemble cast. "The Descent" is celebrated for its effective use of tension and its terrifying subterranean monsters, making it a standout in the horror genre. It has gained a following for its ability to induce genuine fear, setting a high bar for survival horror in confined spaces and underscoring the power of female protagonists in the genre.
"Midsommar" is a 2019 horror-drama film directed by Ari Aster. The story follows a group of friends who travel to a remote Swedish village to attend a midsummer festival that quickly takes a disturbing and cult-like turn. The film is celebrated for its striking visuals, disturbing imagery, and exploration of grief, trauma, and the dynamics of relationships. Aster's meticulous direction and Florence Pugh's powerful performance in the lead role contribute to the film's impact. "Midsommar" stands out for its unique take on the horror genre, using broad daylight and seemingly idyllic surroundings to create an unsettling and eerie atmosphere. It has garnered critical acclaim for its thought-provoking and unsettling narrative, making it a significant entry into contemporary horror cinema.