Favorite Underrated Horror - John Carpenter

John Carpenter has been reviewing movies on the internet for close to twelve years, covering laserdisc, DVD, UMD, HD-DVD and Blu-ray. He now runs http://www.theaterthoughts.com, a website dedicated to the coverage of genre films. He ‘reviews the movies your momma won’t let you watch’ and typically focuses on lesser known titles.
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“Island of Death” (1976) - “Island of Death” is the melting pot of exploitation. This “Greek Nasty” never truly commits to any genre, there is more than enough craziness to satisfy adventurous movie lovers. Writer/Director Nico Mastorakis quickly finds a comfortable groove and paces “Island of Death” well. The film never really rips off any movie in particular, but it does have one of those ‘familiar faces.’ Your jaw may hit the floor a few times.

“Psycho Beach Party” (2000) – Super campy blend of 1950s and 1960s beachy fun with a slasher plotline just waiting to burst out. This homage to B-movie schlock is one of Amy Adams earliest roles, but another ginger (Lauren Ambrose) carries the torch for this flick. There may be a bit too much cheesy comedy for diehard horror fans, but there is no denying the level of entertainment in Robert Lee King’s best feature.

“The Lady in Red Kills Seven Times” (1972) – Emilo Miraglia’s second and final giallo is filled with style and plenty of blood. Barbara Bouchet, Sybil Danning and Maria Malfatti are just a few of the lovely ladies who grace the screen, but don’t ignore the Red Queen. She may add you to her list of victims!

“The Beast with Five Fingers” (1946) – Peter Lorre and a severed hand that kills people. What more do you need to know?

“The Last House on Dead End Street” (1977) – Roger Watkins mixes the real life fears with a surreal David Lynch style edge. This movie is raw and unpolished, but overcomes the shoestring budget to present a nice, gritty horror experience. Watkins, who also stars in the movie, taunts his onscreen victims with odd antics and sadistic torture methods. This would pair well with a Jim Van Bebber’s “Deadbeat at Dawn.”