Movie Review: Halloween (2018)
Synopsis
“Halloween” (2018), directed by David Gordon Green and produced by Jason Blum, marks a triumphant return to the iconic horror franchise that first scarred audiences in 1978. This film serves as a direct sequel to John Carpenter’s original, effectively ignoring all intervening sequels and reboots, embodying a fresh yet respectful continuation of the original narrative.
Set 40 years after the horrific events of that fateful Halloween night, where masked serial killer Michael Myers unleashed terror upon the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois, the story unwinds as Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) grapples with the psychological aftermath of her encounter with the notorious killer. Now, she lives in isolation, readying herself for the day Michael escapes. Meanwhile, Michael has been held in a psychiatric institution for decades, silent and unknowable.
As Halloween approaches, a class of podcasters visits Michael in prison to unveil his story, aiming to understand the man beneath the mask. Their attempts reignite the chain of events that leads to his escape. Laurie, now a hardened woman shaped by her past, rallies her estranged daughter Karen (Judy Greer) and her granddaughter Allyson (Andi Matichak) to confront the looming threat. As Michael returns to Haddonfield, the horror of Halloween night revisits the town, illuminating the themes of trauma, survival, and the enduring impact of fear.
Cast of Actors and Their Characters
- Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode
- Judy Greer as Karen Nelson
- Andi Matichak as Allyson Nelson
- Nick Castle as Michael Myers / The Shape
- Will Patton as Officer Hawkins
- Virginia Gardner as Vicky
- Dylan Arnold as Oscar
- Rohan Campbell as Cameron Elam
- Haluk Bilginer as Dr. Sartain
- Tated McRae as young Laurie Strode (flashbacks)
Review
At its core, “Halloween” (2018) is not merely about the return of Michael Myers but rather an exploration of Laurie Strode’s resilience and trauma. Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a powerful performance, portraying Laurie as a survivor whose life has been indelibly scarred by her past. Her portrayal encapsulates a mix of dread, rage, and the protective instincts of a mother and grandmother. Curtis has been lauded for her ability to breathe life into Laurie anew while remaining faithful to the character’s origins.
The cinematography, helmed by Michael Simmonds, evokes a sense of nostalgia through its visual aesthetics. The film’s careful homage to John Carpenter’s original work is evident, from the iconic pumpkin motif to the haunting score, which is a modified version of Carpenter’s original theme. The soundtrack is perhaps one of the film’s most effective elements, employing atmospheric tension to heighten the anticipation of Michael’s imminent return.
With Michael Myers portrayed by Nick Castle, the film effectively revives the iconic role that made the character a cornerstone of horror cinema. Castle’s understated performance as ‘The Shape’ reinstates the chilling presence that characterised the earlier film. Michael is brutish yet methodical, a force of nature whose motivations remain inscrutable, augmenting the sense of dread throughout Haddonfield as he methodically returns to claim his next victims.
The supporting cast also deserves commendation; Judy Greer shines as Karen, Laurie’s daughter whose strained relationship with her mother reflects the generational trauma inflicted by Michael’s violent legacy. Andi Matichak as Allyson captures the spirit of youth caught in the crossfire of her family’s dark legacy, poignantly reflecting the struggle between confronting one’s fears and the desperation to retain normalcy.
Amidst its horror tropes, the film is underpinned by thought-provoking themes of enduring trauma and the cyclical nature of violence. Across several poignant scenes, Laurie’s grappling with her past is both haunting and captivating; it resonates with anyone who has confronted their demons. The narrative effectively merges action with meaningful character development, allowing viewers to invest in each individual’s plight.
Green’s direction interlaces moments of heart-stopping tension with unexpected levity. The combination of terror and dark humour punctuates action sequences, creating a more dynamic viewing experience. In fact, the film surprises audiences with its willingness to delve into social commentary, addressing issues of mental health and the repercussions of violence.
Critically, the film is not without its flaws. Certain plot points, especially regarding character decisions during moments of peril, can border on the predictable. In an effort to reignite the slasher genre, some of the horror clichés may distract discerning audiences, leading to occasional eye rolls during moments that feel serviceable rather than inspired. Moreover, while the film introduces compelling new characters, some seem underdeveloped, serving primarily as fodder for Michael’s rampage rather than fully realised individuals.
Despite these shortcomings, “Halloween” emerges as a bold addition to the franchise. The film skilfully blends nostalgia with innovation, delivering gruesome kills while ultimately expanding the lore surrounding both Michael Myers and Laurie Strode. The revisitation of the themes of survival and resilience in the face of trauma marks it as a film that offers a powerful commentary beyond mere spectacle.
The climax delivers a satisfying confrontation between Laurie and Michael, infusing a sense of catharsis for audiences who’ve followed Laurie’s journey as a victim turned warrior. It underscores the notion that while past traumas shape us, they need not define us.
Conclusion
“Halloween” (2018) succeeds in revitalising a beloved franchise while embracing the weight of its legacy. Combining intense moments of horror with character-driven storytelling, it strikes a compelling balance between slasher thrills and meaningful exploration of trauma. With strong performances, particularly from Jamie Lee Curtis, and a score that echoes the haunting tones of its predecessor, it expertly captures the essence of what made the original so iconic.
Although it falls prey to a few familiar horror clichés, the film ultimately offers an invigorating blend of nostalgia and innovation, paving the way for future entries in the franchise. It serves as a reminder that Halloween can be a time of horror, but it can also signify resilience in the face of unimaginable fears.
Score: 8/10
