Change Your Image
tomcon21
Reviews
Masters of Horror: Family (2006)
The Best of BOTH Seasons
This episode of MOH was both creepy and thrilling at the same time. The story involves a young couple who has just moved into a nice house in the suburbs. Their next-door neighbor (George Wendt) is a quiet, reserved gentleman with a rather disturbing hobby. I thought I knew where it was going until the last 5 minutes-- what a plot twist! For my money, this was the most complete, well-told, and well-written installment of the MOH series. It didn't feel too short or too long; the length was perfect for the story. While other installments have been unfocused or under-developed, this one was captivating all the way through. Most of the other episodes of this series pale in comparison. Exceptions are: Jenifer and Dreams in the Witch-House, which are my favorites, along with Family.
Masters of Horror: Pro-Life (2006)
The Worst Yet (Spoilers)
This installment of Masters of Horror was terrible. Apparently, Mr. Carpenter needs to learn a thing or two about pacing and decent, plausible dialog. There were times when I literally shouted at the TV for something to happen. Maybe he thinks he building suspense, but Carpenter needs to trim back that overdone, over-simplified musical score of his (or his son's) and advance the action a little bit. How many times did the girl say, "Oh no, I can't have this baby!" and "Oh, no here it comes"? Carpenter takes elements from much, much better films (Assault on Precinct 13 and The Thing) and throws them in here as if we are supposed to acknowledge and appreciate his trademark style. What is lacking here is genuine suspense and energy. It's as though he's sleepwalking through the process of movie making.
For better Carpenter films, stick to the tried and true classics-- The Thing, Halloween, and They Live. For better masters of horror episodes, check out my personal favorites: Family, Jenifer, and Dreams in the Witch House.