A blog about horror movies set during Halloween or the fall season, and where to stream the films online. With movie news, reviews, movie lists/streaming guides, trailers, official and fan-made art, horror t-shirts, GIFs and screen captures, music video mixtapes, short films, and custom VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD cover art.

Showing posts with label The Guest (2014). Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Guest (2014). Show all posts

Sunday, April 27, 2025

9 Underseen Halloween Movies for Halfway to Halloween — Where To Stream (Video by THE COBWEBS CHANNEL)


Hey everyone, and welcome to The Cobwebs Channel!
I'm Daniel, and today we're kicking off the spooky season — in April.
Why? Because right now we're halfway to Halloween! We're just six months away, and if you're anything like me, the spooky vibes aren't just reserved for October. I celebrate Halloween all year round — whenever I need a pick-me-up, Halloween movies, music, and videos are my go-to comfort.

Today, I’m sharing some underseen Halloween movies you may have missed. Some are great, some are so bad they’re good, but they all bring that special Halloween spirit. Let’s dive in!




Trick or Treat (1986)

Plot:
A bullied metalhead resurrects his deceased rock idol by playing his final record backward on Halloween night.

Why You Should Watch:
This one isn't "Trick 'r Treat" from the 2000s — it's the '80s rock-and-horror mashup!
Mark Price (yes, Skippy from Family Ties) absolutely nails the role of the nerdy metal kid fighting back against bullies. The movie feels like a satisfying teen revenge story before the horror elements even kick in — and when they do, it's even better.

The soundtrack by Fastway rocks, and even though it’s light on Halloween visuals, it still hits the right vibe. Especially if you grab the gorgeous new 4K restoration, Trick or Treat is a blast from start to finish.

WHERE TO STREAM  Trick or Treat (1986):



Creeping Death (2023)

Plot:
On Halloween night, a teenager’s rebellious friends unleash deadly consequences through their prankings, drawing from old Gaelic folklore.

Why You Should Watch:
Okay, the first few minutes feel a little low-budget (and the acting can be rough), but stick with it.
Creeping Death gets better and better, and the creature designs — these badass jack-o’-lantern-faced monsters — are absolutely awesome. If you love Halloween horror with a cool indie vibe, this one streaming on Prime Video is worth checking out.

WHERE TO STREAM  Creeping Death (2023):



Carved (2024)

Plot:
On Halloween night, staff members at a historic Pioneer Village must survive a monstrous killer pumpkin.

Why You Should Watch:
A killer pumpkin movie? I had to see it.
While Carved struggles with tone — too cutesy for hardcore horror fans, too gory for family viewing — it does capture cozy Halloween vibes early on at a fall festival. The pumpkin monster design is fun, even if the movie doesn’t stick the landing.
Streaming on Hulu — worth a casual scroll-by if you’re desperate for pumpkin-themed horror.

WHERE TO STREAM  Carved (2024):



Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers (1995)

Plot:
Michael Myers returns, but this time with a heavy dose of Celtic cult weirdness.

Why You Should Watch:
Sure, Halloween 6 isn’t underseen — but it’s definitely underrated.
If you’ve only heard bad things, give the Producer’s Cut a try.
It’s a weird, cult-heavy detour from the usual "Michael kills babysitters" formula, but honestly? That’s why I love it. Plus, the Halloween atmosphere is absolutely top-notch here.




Hollow Gate (1988)

Plot:
A traumatized boy grows up to become a Halloween-night serial killer, targeting teens at a creepy mansion.

Why You Should Watch:
Is Hollow Gate a good movie? No.
Is it a fascinatingly bad movie with moments of pure WTF? Absolutely.
The killer wears different costumes for each murder, and the absurdity (like a gas station sex scene ending in a fiery car explosion) makes it a bizarre slasher gem for Halloween completists.
Low-budget lovers, you have been warned.

WHERE TO STREAM  Hollow Gate (1988):



Cobweb (2023)

Plot:
An 8-year-old boy hears a mysterious tapping from inside his walls, and his parents insist it’s all in his head.

Why You Should Watch:
Easily my favorite horror movie of 2023.
Creepy atmosphere? Check.
Tons of Halloween decorations? Check.
Deep, dark fairy tale horror? Oh yeah.
Anthony Starr and Lizzy Caplan are fantastically unsettling as the parents. And without spoiling too much, the payoff to the wall mystery is exactly the dark fairy-tale nightmare I hoped for. Cobweb deserves way more love.

WHERE TO STREAM  Cobweb (2023):




I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957)

Plot:
A rebellious teen is experimented on by a psychiatrist, turning him into a bloodthirsty werewolf.

Why You Should Watch:
The title is more famous than the movie itself, but this 1950s teen horror flick is charming.
Michael Landon (pre-Little House on the Prairie) is magnetic as the angsty teen-turned-werewolf.
While it’s technically set at Halloween, don’t expect decorations or trick-or-treating — it’s more about the vibes.
A fun little slice of ‘50s nostalgia with werewolf action.




Grow Up, Tony Phillips (2013)

Plot:
A high school senior refuses to give up his love of Halloween, despite pressure to "grow up."

Why You Should Watch:
Not a horror movie — but an absolutely delightful Halloween coming-of-age story.
Tony is a charming, relatable character for anyone who’s ever been told they’re "too old" for the things they love.
It's funny, sweet, and packed with Halloween spirit, costumes, and trick-or-treating. A total gem for those who love the season as much as the scares.




The Guest (2014)

Plot:
After a mysterious soldier arrives at the Peterson family's doorstep, a series of violent and unexplained deaths begin to follow.

Why You Should Watch:
The Guest is a total hidden gem — a perfect blend of action, suspense, dark comedy, and horror that somehow shifts genres seamlessly without missing a beat.
Dan Stevens gives a career-defining performance, playing the magnetic yet chilling soldier David with unforgettable style.
If you love movies that feel like a love letter to John Carpenter classics but still bring their own fresh energy, this is absolutely for you. Plus, it’s got an incredible synth-heavy soundtrack, stylish direction, and early breakout performances from talents like Maika Monroe.

WHERE TO STREAM  The Guest (2014):



Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a Halloween teen drama, a killer pumpkin, or jack-o’-lantern monsters — there’s something in this list for you.
Halfway to Halloween is the perfect time to queue up some spooky hidden gems, and honestly, who says we can’t celebrate all year?

What’s your favorite underseen Halloween movie? Let’s chat in the comments!

πŸŽƒπŸ•Έ️ Stay spooky,
Daniel | The Cobwebs Channel

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Top 10 Films Set on Halloween (Plus 5 More) — Where to Stream (Videos by CINEMATIC VOID)

Top 10 Films Set On Halloween: Cinematic Void Vlog #97. Video #1 by @CinematicVoid:

For this edition of the Cinematic Void Vlog, Jim shares his favorite films set around the Halloween season.


Halloween is a time for spooky vibes, thrilling tales, and a bit of nostalgia. With so many films set around this haunting holiday, it’s only fitting to curate a list of personal favorites that capture the essence of Halloween. Here’s a look at my top ten picks, each bringing its unique flavor to the celebration of all things eerie.




10. Hack-O-Lantern (1988)

Kicking off the list is Hack-O-Lantern, directed by Jag Mundhra. This film stars Hy Pyke as a charming grandpa who also happens to run a satanic cult that sacrifices people on Halloween. The unique killer costume, standout kills and out of place stand up comedy bit make this a memorable watch. The film has a blend of heavy metal and horror elements, with a twist that keeps you engaged. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s worth checking out, especially with the 4K UHD/Blu-ray release by Massacre Video.


WHERE TO STREAM  Hack-O-Lantern (1988):



9. Primal Rage (1988)

Next, we head to Florida with Primal Rage, directed by Vittorio Rambaldi, with a script co-written by legendary Italian exploitation filmaker Umberto Lenzi. This film features a rage virus that turns baboons into crazed monsters. When a college reporter gets bitten, chaos ensues on campus. The Halloween party setting, complete with costumes and special effects by the legendary Carlo Rambaldi (Vittorio's father), makes this film a fun ride. It’s a blend of horror and absurdity that’s sure to entertain.


WHERE TO STREAM  Primal Rage (1988):



8. Flesh Eater (1988)

Coming in at number eight is Flesh Eater, directed by Bill Hinzman, known for his role in Night of the Living Dead. This film serves as an unauthorized sequel to the 1968 classic where zombies wreak bloody havoc at a Halloween party. With fall weather scenery, a hayride and plenty of costumes, it captures the Halloween spirit and delivers a taboo death of a trick or treater.


WHERE TO STREAM  Flesh Eater (1988):



7. Kenny & Company (1976)

At number seven, we have Kenny & Company, directed by Don Coscarelli. This coming-of-age story set in Southern California during Halloween captures the nostalgia of youth. While not a horror film, it features a scary haunted house sequence that inspired the director to make Phantasm (1979) with Reggie Bannister and A. Michael Baldwin who also appear in this film. A great reminder of simpler, spookier times.


WHERE TO STREAM Kenny & Company (1976):

Watch Kenny & Company (1976) on YouTube:




6. Hell House LLC (2015)

Number six is the found footage film Hell House LLC, released in 2015. This movie follows a group that sets up a haunted attraction in a creepy hotel. As opening night unfolds, things spiral out of control. The unsettling atmosphere and clever storytelling make this an annual watch during the Halloween season.


WHERE TO STREAM  Hell House LLC (2015):



5. The Guest (2014)

Coming in at five is The Guest, directed by Adam Wingard, witten by Simon Barrett. This action-horror hybrid stars Dan Stevens as a soldier who arrives at a grieving family's home, claiming to have known their deceased son. As bodies start piling up, the family's suspicions grow. With a fantastic score by Steve Moore from the band Zombi and visuals reminiscent of Halloween 3, this film is a captivating watch. Also stars Maika Monroe who gives a fantastic performance.


WHERE TO STREAM  The Guest (2014):



4. Night of the Demons (1988)

At number four, we have the classic Night of the Demons, directed by Kevin Tenney. A group of friends decides to party at an abandoned funeral home, but things take a turn for the worse when demonic possession occurs. With memorable effects and standout performances by Amelia Kinkade as Angela and beloved scream queen Linnea Quigley in an unforgettable lipstick scene. This film is a staple for Halloween viewing.


WHERE TO STREAM  Night of the Demons (1988):



Honorable Mention #1: Night of the Demons 2 (1994) (just as good as the first)


WHERE TO STREAM  Night of the Demons 2 (1994):



3. WNUF Halloween Special (2013)

In the third spot is WNUF Halloween Special, directed by Chris LaMartina. This film is presented as a found 1987 VHS recording of the nightly news followed by a live ghost investigation into a haunted house. Featuring period-appropriate commercials, it captures the essence of Halloween and old tv broadcasts in a unique way that was actually taped on VHS. It’s a nostalgic trip that has become a favorite for many during the spooky season.





Honorable Mention #2: Out There Halloween Mega Tape (2022) (aka WNUF Halloween Sequel 1990's set VHS recording)


NOT STREAMING Out There Halloween Mega Tape: Buy at WNUF.bigcartel.com




2. Halloween III: Season of the Witch (1982)

At number two, we have the often-debated Halloween III: Season of the Witch, directed by Tommy Lee Wallace, produced by John Carpenter and Debra Hill with cinematography by Dean Cundey. While it’s not a direct sequel (No Michael Myers), it has more Halloween vibes than the 1978 original and holds a special place in my heart. It's take on Halloween mythology, the Silver Shamrock masks and song, the score by Carpenter and Alan Howarth, the evil story, and the terrific performances by Tom Atkins, Stacey Nelkin, Dan O'Herlihy, Dick Warlock make it iconic and a yearly must-watch.





Honorable Mention #3: Halloween (1978) (The One, The Only, The Classic!)


WHERE TO STREAM  Halloween (1978):



1. The Midnight Hour (1985)

Finally, topping the list is The Midnight Hour baby, a 1985 TV movie directed by Jack Bender with great cast Shari Belafonte, LeVar Burton, Kevin McCarthy, Lee Montgomery, Curtwood Smith, Dick Van Patten and countless others. Set in a town reminiscent of Salem, Massachusetts, the film follows a group of kids who accidentally raise the dead while trying to steal artifacts for a Halloween party. With a fantastic soundtrack and engaging story, this film is a perfect Halloween treat.


WHERE TO STREAM  The Midnight Hour (1985):


WATCH The Midnight Hour (1985) on YouTube:



Five More Films Set on Halloween: Cinematic Void Vlog #98. Video #2 by @CinematicVoid:

Jim Bransom shares 5 more of his favorite movies set during the spooky season, expanding on the previous top 10 list.




Wacko (1982)

First on the list is Wacko, a slasher parody directed by Greydon Clark. This film is a comedic take on the horror genre, featuring a killer known as the lawnmower man, who wears a pumpkin on his head. His mission? To eliminate any teenager engaging in sexual activities. This premise is a nod to the classic horror tropes of the 70s and 80s.

The cast includes notable actors like Joe Don Baker, George Kennedy, and the film debut of Andrew Dice Clay. The humor is reminiscent of Airplane!, so your enjoyment may vary based on your taste in comedy. Despite its dated jokes, Wacko offers a different flavor for Halloween viewing, perfect for those looking for laughs instead of scares.


WHERE TO STREAM  Wacko (1982):



Cemetery of Terror (1985)

Next is Cemetery of Terror, directed by RubΓ©n Galindo Jr. This film is a fusion of slasher and zombie genres, reminiscent of John Carpenter's Halloween. In a bizarre twist, medical students steal the body of a serial killer to reanimate him, leading to a chain reaction of zombie chaos.

The film stars Hugo Stiglitz, known for his appearances in cult classics. With a mix of gore, Halloween vibes, and a sprinkle of goofiness, Cemetery of Terror is a must-watch, especially for fans of exploitation cinema. It’s available on Blu-ray and streaming platforms like Shudder, making it easy to find for your Halloween marathon.


WHERE TO STREAM  Cemetery of Terror (1985):

Watch Cementerio del Terror (1985) on YouTube:




Ghostwatch (1992)

At number three, we have the infamous Ghostwatch, a unique television special that aired on the BBC. The film presents itself as a live newscast investigating a haunted house, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. Many viewers believed it was a real live investigation, causing quite a stir upon its release.

This mockumentary style has inspired various horror films since, including The Blair Witch Project and WNUF Halloween Special. If you haven't seen Ghostwatch, it’s worth adding to your spooky season queue. It’s currently available on Shudder, and there's a special Blu-ray edition for collectors.


WHERE TO STREAM  Ghostwatch (1992):

Watch Ghostwatch (1992) at Internet Archive:




May (2002)

Coming in at number two is May, directed by Lucky McKee. This psychological horror film stars Angela Bettis as an awkward woman struggling to connect with others. After her beloved doll is destroyed, she takes a dark turn, crafting a new doll from body parts of people she knows.

May is a haunting exploration of loneliness and obsession, with nods to classic horror films. Bettis delivers a powerful performance that captivates the audience. The film also features contributions from Ryan Johnson, known for directing Knives Out. If you're looking for something deeper and more unsettling, May is a fantastic choice for Halloween.


WHERE TO STREAM  May (2002):



Satan's Little Helper (2004)

Finally, we have Satan's Little Helper, a slasher film directed by Jeff Lieberman. This underrated gem follows a young boy who befriends a man dressed as a character from his favorite video game, not realizing the man is a serial killer. The boy's innocent perspective leads to a darkly comedic exploration of horror and reality.

Lieberman, known for films like Blue Sunshine, delivers a unique take on the Halloween theme. The film balances humor with genuine scares, making it a perfect fit for the season. If you haven't seen it yet, Satan's Little Helper deserves a spot on your Halloween watchlist.


WHERE TO STREAM  Satan's Little Helper (2004):



Conclusion

These 15 films offer a variety of experiences, from comedic spoofs to psychological horror to nostalgia of youth, each set against the backdrop of Halloween. Whether you're in the mood for laughs or chills or memories, there's something here for everyone. As you prepare for the spooky season, consider adding these titles to your viewing lineup and discover some hidden gems!

Let us know your thoughts on this list and if you have any other Halloween favorites to share. Happy Halloween!