Good Halloween

[alexxkay]

teenybuffalo came over to watch cheesy horror movies with kestrell and I. We started with Warlock (1989). Notable for starring Richard E. Grant With A Whip. Also starring Julian Sands as the eponymous Big Bad. Actually not a bad flick, as cheesy horror goes. Takes the unusual tack of having a magic system largely based on traditional witchcraft lore, rather than random made-up stuff. The special effects were rather weak, but the cast did a lot to make up for that with Intention and Emotional Commitment.

[Digression: Warlock features a sequence where our 17th century witch-finder encounters an airplane for the first time. It's a good time travel moment -- now in two directions. Not only do they have a ludicrously easy time getting through airport security, but there are people *smoking* on the airplane!]

Followed that up with the surprisingly similar Devil's Rain (1975). This was substantially more cheesy, though, what with William Shatner and Ernest Borgnine both over-acting for all they were worth. Also notable for involvement of famous Satanist Anton LaVey as a consultant. Some worthwhile moments, but not really recommended.

Both films could be described as "17th century witch and his nemesis end up in the 20th century, where they clash over a significant magical book." Moral Lesson: Don't mess with magical books.

The hordes started trickling by a bit before 5. They hit full force by 6, and we ran out entirely just before 7. The vast majority of the handing-out was done by Teeny, in her most excellent witch outfit.

Notable costumes included a Zombie Ninja (complete with throwing star embedded in his forehead), and a Zombie Princess Leia. Many assorted Princesses, Power Rangers, Superheroes, and Serial Killers. Somewhat fewer, but still notable quantities of vampires, italian plumbers, cute insects, and clowns.

There followed a brief clean-up period, after which Meredith fed everyone into submission. A most excellent day!