Top 10 HORROR films of '09 (part 2)

These lists are fun to make but are all so relative. A number of the pics mentioned are ’08 productions that didn’t see US distribution until ’09. A few are ’09 releases that didn’t hit DVD until early 2010. I hold off on printing any “best of” list until after the awards season to allow myself the opportunity to catch all those “tiny” films that are rushed into limited release at year’s end to gain eligibility. I’ve watched a boatload of horror flicks throughout the year to get to this list (view my earlier posts for why Deadgirl (ugh), Thirst and other fan faves didn’t make the cut) and hope you enjoy my line of reasoning in making my selections.

6. Let the Right One In (March 10, 2009) A foreign vampire love story, Let the Right One In succeeds not only as a horror picture, but is one of the best looking, most adeptly told narratives of the year. Both eerie and heartwarming, it is one of the most affecting horror films you’re likely to see. (Note: this should be placed much higher in the rankings, however, I was one of the lucky few that caught it during its initial release and it made a couple of my lists back then).



7. Trick ‘r Treat (Oct. 6, 2009) Anthology of shorts, each taking place on Allhallows Eve. The film lingered in distribution hell before finally receiving a DVD release from Warner Home Video – and just in time for Halloween. Packed with style and glee and enough holiday lore to make Jack Skellington jump for joy, the picture is sure to become required holiday viewing for young fans.

8. Bad Biology (Jan. 26, 2010) When two biologically malformed beings meet the result is an explosively lewd and bewildering experience in tune with the midnight movies of the late 70s. A master of low budget cinema, Frank Henenlotter was removed from filmmaking for far too long. His return boasts the same magnificently shameless style and stop-motion FX that made him famous among dedicated horror fans.

9. The Last House on the Left (Aug. 18, 2009) When the Collingwoods discover the gang of drifters staying in their guest house may have assaulted their daughter they decide on a rather gruesome method of settling the score. The only of the horde of current remakes to outdo its predecessor, The Last House on the Left is stylishly photographed, tightly directed and wonderfully acted. Though the strong message of the original is weakened by the survival of the Collingwood girl, the moment in which the parents decide to resort to violence is truly affecting.

10. Pontypool (Jan. 26, 2010) A deadly virus is sweeping a small Ontario town and the only source for information is newly appointed shock-jock Grant Mazzy. Very stylish and extremely claustrophobic, Pontypool is a zombie flick minus the zombies. Transpiring completely within a crude radio station the picture remains inventive up until the point that the source of the disease is revealed (where it becomes a tad corny).