Last week I watched two classic horror movies: “The Thing” and “The Exorcist.” Watching John Carpenter’s “The Thing,” just further reminded me of how crappy the recent prequel was. With its spooky score, good looking practical effects, and more fully formed characters, Carpenter’s story is far superior. If you were thinking about seeing the prequel, skip it, so you can stay in and watch Carpenter’s version.
Even though I didn’t find myself grossed out by any of the nasty behavior of the possessed little girl (Linda Blair) in “The Exorcist,” I really appreciated the eerie music, the spectacular character development, and the visual skill with which director William Friedkin tells this tale. Friedkin reminds us that horror movies can be disgusting and freaky, but that the best ones also feature characters you can get invested in.
This week promises two comedies and a crime thriller at the box office. You’ll have the chance to see the Cannabis comedy “A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas,” the lighthearted robbery romp “Tower Heist,” and the cop drama “The Son of No One.”
