Fury

MPAA Rating: R for strong sequences of war violence, some grisly images, and language throughout. (Recommend kidsinmind.com)
Run Time: 134 minutes
My Rating: 4.5/5
So today my wife and I went and saw Columbia Pictures' Fury starring Brad Pitt (Mr. and Mrs. Smith), Shia Labeouf (Transformers), Logan Lerman (Percy Jackson series), and Michael Pena (End of Watch).  The film details the story of a Sherman tank crew during the final push of World War II in Germany.  They are led by their fearless leader Wardaddy (Brad Pitt) as they embark on a deadly mission behind enemy lines.  Soon they find themselves outnumbered and outgunned and as the odds continue to pile against them, they must face their most horrific test yet.
So I absolutely loved this film.  I thought the story was great, the actors worked great together, and the action was memorable.  The story takes place in World War II, Nazi Germany.  I for one love war films and this one is just as good as any.  The film focuses on the tanks in the war something that is unique to the genre and personally I thought it was great.  The film focuses on one crew in particular which makes the film even better because of its fantastic cast.  The actors make the film great.  They all have their own distinct personalities that they portray and the crew is so diverse that it makes you relate to the crew no matter what.  Another thing that makes the film great is the chemistry among the cast.  With this film being so depended on a single crew, chemistry is important.  Apparently the cast had to go through some rigorous training before filming and it brought the crew together incredibly.  Finally the action scenes in this film is amazing.  Now this film is very graphic in its depiction of war violence so if you have a weak stomach I definitely wouldn't recommend this film, but if you can handle it, this is definitely a movie you should see.  The final battle in the film is a work of art and just watching it is breathtaking.  The final 30 minutes of the film alone is worth the price of admission.
Now beware that the film is long, but it has a good balance of action and story line that makes it a good 2 hours of your time.  I definitely recommend this film.  It is spectacular and one that you don't want to miss.  It may not be the best war movie ever made, but it is definitely one that you should watch.

St. Vincent

MPAA Rating: PG-13 for mature thematic material including sexual content, alcohol and tobacco use, and for language.
Run Time: 102 Minutes
My Rating: 3.5/5
Ok, so today I went and saw Chernin Entertainment's St. Vincent starring Bill Murray (What About Bob?), Melissa McCarthy (The Heat), and Naomi Watts (The Ring).  The film centers around Vincent (Bill Murray), an old Vietnam war veteran who is down on his luck.  He drinks all day, gambles all his money away, and doesn't care about anybody else.  His life turns upside down when Maggie (Melissa McCarthy), a single-mother going through a rough divorce, and her son, Oliver, move in next door.  Suddenly Vincent's life begins to change as he starts taking care of Oliver everyday after school.  Finally Vincent has someone that truly cares for him, something that he hasn't experienced in such a long time.  
So when I first saw the trailer for this film I was really excited.  I love Bill Murray and I think Melissa McCarthy is hilarious, so I was expecting great things from this film.  While I wasn't blown away by this film comedy-wise, the acting was incredible.  Yes there is some comedic humor throughout the show, but it isn't as profound as what you would expect.  Bill Murray gives ones of his best performances in years as the drunk, old Vincent.  At first as you watch Vincent go through his every day life, you can't help but be disgusted by him.  The way he treats others and the way he lives is life is hard to watch because you think that there is no way that you could have any sympathy for this guy.  However as the film goes on, Bill Murray's great performance makes you love Vincent even through all his flaws.  Melissa McCarthy and Naomi Watts give very powerful performances as well that completely change your perspective on them.
While the film's acting makings this film great, there are some parts of the story that create the film's biggest flaw.  In all reality though I love Naomi Watts, her character really doesn't have to be in the film.  Her character has some funny moments, but really distracts from the overall plot.  I see why they put her in the film, but I believe that the film could have been better if the character wasn't in the film.  It would have given the director more time to focus on the true meaning of the story.
Now is this the best film out in theaters right now? No!! However I do believe that this film is one that people should see.  Why?  Because the lesson taught in this film is priceless and something that we all need to remind ourselves of.  That is why you need to see this film.  It may not be the best film ever, but it is one that all should see.
Thanks for reading.  If you have any comments, ideas, or thoughts just let me know.

Men, Women, & Children

MPAA Rating: R for strong sexual content including graphic dialogue throughout-some involving teens, and for language.
Run Time: 119 minutes
My Rating: 0/5
Ok, so my wife and I decided to go see Paramount Pictures Men, Women, & Children.  The film depicts the lives of parents, kids, and teenagers as they live life both in the real world and online.  That is basically the whole story.
When I first saw the preview for the film, I thought it looked very interesting and thought-provoking.  It reminded me of 2012's Disconnect starring Jason Bateman (a movie which I loved by the way and I think everyone should see it), but to my disappointment it wasn't anywhere near that kind of quality.  To be completely honest my wife and I walked out of the film within the first 10 minutes.  That is how horrible it is.  Seriously within those first ten minutes, a dad was looking as porn (in full view), a son was looking at porn, and a teenager was posing for immoral pictures to post on the internet which were taken by her own mother.  What a load of crap.  Now I know that with technology people can live different lifestyles than they normally live, but seriously there is no way that this movie depicts reality.  The thing I hate about these types of movies is that they say they are providing us with reality, but in reality there is so much good on the internet as well that never get depicted.  Yes this is film that shows the dangers that the internet can provide, but if we look at it with just that lens, then we are denying ourselves of all the good.
It is a real shame that this film turned out the way it did.  It stars an amazing cast with Adam Sandler, Jennifer Garner, Ansel Elgort, Emma Thompson, and Judy Greer.  Such a waste of perfect talent.
There is a reason why this film is failing at the box office and I would suggest that people don't waste their money like I did.  Please stay away from this film, because there are so many better options out there.

The Book of Life

MPAA Rating: PG for mild action, rude humor, some thematic elements and brief scary images.
Run Time: 95 minutes
My Rating: 4/5
So last night my wife and I decided to go and see Reel FX Animation Studio's The Book of Life.  The film details the story of Manolo (Diego Luna), a young man who is in love with the beautiful Maria (Zoe Saldana), as he tries to live up to the expectations of his family as well as follow his heart.  Unfortunately for Manolo he is in competition for Maria heart against his best friend Joaquin (Channing Tatum).  However in order to win the love of his life, Manolo embarks on a grand adventure that spans three spectacular worlds where he must face his greatest fears.
Personally I thought the film was fantastic.  The content was unique, cast was great, the animation was breathtaking, and the story was so humorous   The film takes its cue from the Hispanic holiday "Day of the Dead."  This is something that hasn't really been touched in most mainstream American films, so it was really refreshing.  Now I am no expert on Hispanic holidays, but from what I know about the "Day of the Dead" the film was extremely accurate as to its concept.  This is a great film to take the kids to in order to bring more culture into their lives.  Along with the film being very culturally informative, the cast helps bring the film to life.  In addition to the three leads mentioned above the film also has the voice talents of Christina Applegate (Anchorman), Ron Perlman (Hellboy), Ice Cube (22 Jump Street), Gabriel Iglesias (Planes), Danny Trejo (Machete), and Cheech Marin (The Lion King).   This film is full of incredible talent and each actor makes their character their own.  Each character directly resembles that actors personality and with that it makes the film a more enjoyable experience.
Another great thing about the film is the animation.  As Manolo embarks on his journey through the three worlds, the animation just jumps off the screen.  The colors are amazing and it truly brings the worlds to life.  There is so much distinction between the three worlds that it is great to see the amount of effort that the the animators put in to making the film come to life.  Finally with such a great cast and impeccable animation, the film's true strength is in its humor.  The film is hilarious and throughout the entire film there is comedic relief.  Each character provides their own unique type of comedy which really makes the film even more spectacular.
Now for all the greatness that this film provides, it still has its shortcomings.  Probably the biggest shortcoming of them all is that the film is very cheesy at some points.  There are times when you just stare at the screen and you can't believe what you are seeing.  This is the most apparent shortcoming of them all, but it is easy to get past with the great things that the film provides.
Overall, I thought the film was amazing and I would recommend this film to anyone.  This is a great film that the kids and adults will love.  I personally think that this is probably one of the greatest animated features of the year.  I would definitely go see this movie again and I hope that y'all will give it a chance.  You won't be disappointed.
Thanks again for reading, if you have any questions, comments, or ideas, just let me know.    

The Judge

MPAA Rating: R for language including some sexual references.
Run Time: 141 Minutes
My Rating: 5/5
So last night my wife and I went and saw Warner Bros' The Judge starring Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man) and Robert Duvall (The Godfather).  The film depicts the story of Hank Palmer (Robert Downey Jr.), a big shot lawyer who returns to his childhood home after the death of his mother.  Hank has has never had the greatest relationship with his family, especially his father (Robert Duvall), the town's judge.  After the funeral, while returning home, Hank finds out that his father is suspected of murder.  It is now up to Hank to discover the truth of what really happened, while trying to get over old family feuds, in order to save his family from another heartbreak.
This film was fantastic.  This is the first film that I have given a perfect score and this one definitely deserves it.  The story is fantastic, the cast is spectacular, and the emotions are real.  The film has brought together an absolutely amazing cast.  Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall are great together.  The way that they interact with each other, it is like a match made in heaven.  The best part about the film is that they aren't the only ones that are great in it.  The cast also includes Vera Farmiga (Bates Motel), Billy Bob Thornton (Friday Night Lights) and Dax Sheppard (Parenthood).  Each actor brings something special to this film and makes their role worth remembering.
I think the thing that really makes the movie though is the emotion that the film brings and the issues that it arises.  This film is probably the most realistic film I have seen in a while.  The film really focuses on the family and the important bond there is between a parent and a child.  Sure we don't always see eye to eye with each other, but the bond that exists is strong.  In the film Hank and his father don't have the greatest relationship, but they don't even know why exactly.  They bicker back and forth, but it isn't until they let their guards down that they finally make some progress and tackle real issues.  For children all they want is to be appreciated and loved.  For parents all they want is some respect and love in return.  There are moments where both sides lose that for unexplained reasons and then they drift apart.  This film puts these things into perspective.  This film shows that bonds can be mended and differences put aside.
This film was amazing and I would recommend you go see it.  There is some language throughout the film to be worried about though.  This film is definitely worth watching and is something that will touch everyone.
Thanks again for reading.  If you have any questions, comments or concerns just let me know!!!!

Dracula Untold

MPAA Rating: PG-13 for intense sequences of warfare, vampire attacks, disturbing images, and some sensuality
Run Time: 92 minutes
My Rating: 4.5/5
So last night my wife and I went and saw Universal's Dracula Untold starring Luke Evans (The Hobbit), and directed by newcomer Gary Shore.  The film details the origins of the famous vampire Dracula.  It all starts with Vlad (Luke Evans), the prince of Transylvania, who declares war on the Turks when he won't give up his son and a thousand of other children of Transylvania to the Turkish army.  In order to prepare for war he seeks a terrible power that will help him defeat his enemies.  What Vlad doesn't know though is that this terrible power comes at such a dangerous cost and if Vlad doesn't learn to live with the consequences then he may lose everything he loves in the process.
Now many of you will be skeptical about my rating being so high, but this film was based on pure entertainment value.  From start to finish I was intrigued by the film and what it had to offer.  I will be honest there are some really cheesy moments and there are some moments when the acting isn't that great, but I came out of the film just really happy.  In fact to my surprise there were even people that clapped after the film.
Now for an actual  analysis.  The cinematography was fantastic.  The actions scenes were done amazingly and they were very entertaining.  Also the special effects are what make the movie.  With a film like this, special effects can make or break it, but in this film they definitely make the film.  Watching Vlad transform in to the infamous Dracula as he suffers through the consequences of what this actually means for him is very well done.
Finally probably the best thing about this film is the actual origin story.  The vampire Dracula has been around for decades, but the new take on the origin is somewhat unique.  This film completely makes the audience rethink about what they thought of the world's original vampire.  One thing that makes me excited about this film is the plan that this film sets in motion.  Thanks to Marvel and their introduction of the "Cinematic Universe," it has become the latest craze for Hollywood to create "cinematic universes" for their characters.  Universal is just the latest one to do this and personally I am really excited about this one.  Universal wants to reboot all their famous monsters and put them in the same universe and eventually have them all in the same movie.  Dracula Untold is supposed to be the film that sets up the whole universe and to tell you the truth if this universe does the same greatness as this film, then it is going to be awesome.
Overall all this is a great film.  If you are worried because of the horror aspect, don't be.  Honestly it is more of an action film then a horror movie.  I would recommend this film to anyone.
Thanks for reading. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions just let me know.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

MPAA Rating: PG for rude humor including some reckless behavior and language
Run Time: 81 minutes
My Rating: 4.5/5
So on my day off from school, I decided to go and see Disney's Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.  I went in the theater expecting the worst and it turns out that I was completely wrong.  This film was great and I absolutely loved it.  The film is based off the children's book of the same name by Judith Viorst.  It details the lives of Alexander, a 12 year old boy, and his family.  Alexander has the worst luck possible and what makes it worse is that his family seems to be perfect and lucky in all aspects of life.  Finally when Alexander has had enough, he wishes that his family could experience just a piece of what he experiences all day, every day.  Well the wish works and the following day the family experience mishap after mishap.  While this day of terror continues to go on, it is up to Alexander and his family to try and make the most of their terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.
So I grew up loving this book.  As a young child, it was one of the first books that I learned how to read.  So when I heard that they were going to make a movie of it, I was really excited about it.  Then I saw the trailer and I was really worried.  To me it looked very childish and just plain dumb.  I was completely wrong.  This film was hilarious.  Yes, some of the things that happen to this poor family are overreaching and would probably never happen to someone in real life, but that is ok, because for some reason it works.  There is something for the whole family humor wise and something that each member of the family will enjoy.  I was laughing so hard during the film and so was everyone else in the audience both young and old.  In fact some lady was laughing so hard she dropped her popcorn all over the floor. The thing that brings it all together though is the cast.  The cast is absolutely amazing.  Steve Carrell and Jennifer Garner are at their best and they are only complimented by what the supporting cast brings to the film.  
Another reason why I would recommend this film is because it is a film that everyone can relate with.  Each and every one of us has had bad days, where nothing seems to be going our way no matter what we do.  The thing that this movie teaches is that every bad day prepares us for some of the greatest days in our lives if we spend those bad days surrounded by the people that we love.
In my opinion, Disney has another hit on their hands.  It may not make as much as other films, but it is a movie that all will enjoy.  This is a great film for all ages.  Finally there is a film in theaters that the whole family can watch.
Thanks again for reading and if you have any comments or suggestions just let me know!!

Annabelle

MPAA Rating: R for intense sequences of disturbing violence and terror.
Run Time: 98 minutes
My Rating: 4/5
So tonight I had decided to go and see New Line Cinema's Annabelle, a spin-off of last years box-office hit The Conjuring (for more information see My Top 10 Movies to Watch This October post).  The film details the story of the doll Annabelle, originally seen at the beginning of The Conjuring, and how she became the demonized doll that made the real life ghost hunter Ed and Lorraine Warren scared for their lives.  The film begins with Jeff and his wife Mia who are expecting their first child.  Jeff decides to give Mia a vintage porcelain doll as a present.  That same night they are attacked by their neighbor's daughter who belongs to a Satanic cult.  The police arrive killing the cultist.  Little do they know is that the cultist transfers her demonized soul into the new porcelain doll.  Shortly after the attacks many strange things begin to happen around the house that makes Mia worried.  The supernatural happenings begin to get worse and it is up to Mia to find out what Annabelle wants or her family may be in danger of something much worse than just a few slammed doors.
Personally I thought the film was really good.  It definitely wasn't what I expected from the movie, but I was pleasantly surprised at the finished product.  Before the film was released many people thought that it was going to be a girl version of Chucky, but that is definitely not the case.  The film is way more supernatural than gore, which for me is something I really like.  One thing that people should be aware of is that even though the title is Annabelle, the actual doll Annabelle isn't really the complete story.  There is so many other supernatural forces at play in this film that it completely gives you a new perspective on the Annabelle from The Conjuring.  Now don't get me wrong even though Annabelle isn't in many scenes, the scenes that she is in are absolutely terrifying.  She has a presence in every scene that she is in that make the movie memorable.  Annabelle absolutely makes the movie.  One thing that I have to commend is the amazing cinematography in the film.  Each scene is created with such powerful camera angles of the tormented victims that the audience doesn't even know what will happen next.
So the entire time that I was watching the film I was expecting to be smitten like I was during The Conjuring, but unfortunately that was not the case.  Annabelle brings a lot of the same scares that other horror movies bring and really didn't bring anything new to the genre.  I was also expecting more out of the story, but unfortunately the story wasn't as amazing as I hoped it would be.  It might be the fact that this wasn't based on a true story so they were trying to create how a real life doll became actually possessed with no real back story given to them.
Overall I thought that Annabelle was a completely effective follow-up to The Conjuring.  It may not be making leaps and bounds like its predecessor, but it definitely is worth the trip to the theaters this Halloween.
Thanks again for reading.  If you have any suggestions or comments, just let me know.
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The Good Lie

MPAA Raring: PG-13 for thematic elements, some violence, brief strong language and drug use.
Run Time: 110 minutes
My Rating: 4/5
So tonight my wife and I decided to go and see Alcon Entertainment's The Good Lie starring Reese Witherspoon.  Let me just say, I loved it.  I thought it was a fantastic film and very well made.  The film is based on the true story of The Lost Boys of Sudan.  The film details the events in Africa during 1983-1987 where the North and South of Africa were in a great civil war.  It follows the story of Mamere and his brothers and sister as their village of Sudan is destroyed.  The group of 6 survive the mob and make their way to a Kenyan Refugee Camp.  Along the way they encounter many trials and hardships which shape their lives.  Eventually after 13 years they get the opportunity to go to America where they find employment and obtain an education.  While there they meet employment counselor Carrie Davis (Reese Witherspoon) who changes their lives forever.
So when I first saw the trailer for this movie, I was really excited.  I really like Reese Witherspoon, she hasn't really been in a role like this for a long time, so I was happy to finally see her in the spotlight again.  Now even though the trailer made it seem like Reese Witherspoon has a huge role in the film, that isn't really the case.  It is a marketing ploy by the industry to attract people to their movies by showing big stars in their film.  Now don't get me wrong, when Witherspoon is in the scene she completely nails it and she delivers some of the greatest lines in the movie.  In fact I think this is her greatest performance to date since she played June Carter Cash in 2005's Walk the Line.
The film has so many things which works for it.  The cast is impeccable.  Besides Witherspoon there really isn't any recognizable cast members.  Those playing The Lost Boys of Sudan are amazing and completely make the show.  As you see them interact with each other, both as children and as adults, your heart melts for their story.  They also provide some comedic humor as they try to integrate themselves into American customs. Another thing that works well for the film is the emotion that is brought out by each character and situation.  You can tell from the very beginning of the film that emotion will play a huge part in the film and it does throughout.  The film tackles real life issues as it shows the harsh realities of what life was like in Africa, but also the harsh realities of living in America.
Though I loved the film, the film still has shortcomings.  One thing that I felt is that the film was slow.  For a film under two hours, it moved at a slow pace.  That necessarily isn't a bad thing, but it is something to be aware of.  Also I left the film wanting more.  I wanted to know more of the story.  The trailers made it seem that there was this huge struggle that was going to happen, but the struggle isn't really represented as much as what I thought it was going to be.  Most of the struggle is briefly mentioned, but not really displayed, it is kind of glossed over.  Also for parents who are thinking that this is a good show to take kids to, I wouldn't recommend it.  There is nothing bad about the film content wise, but they may get bored due to the slow pace of the film and the lack of humor or action.
Overall I think this is a film that people should go see.  It is very inspirational and heartwarming.  It is nice to see a movie like this at the box office since there hasn't really been much of its kind lately.  If you are looking for just a feel-good show and to be inspired, The Good Lie is definitely the one to go see.
Thanks again for reading, if you have any questions or comments just let me know.

Gone Girl

MPAA Rating: R for a scene of bloody violence, some strong sexual content/nudity, and language. (Definitely recommend kidsinmind.com, but I would still be cautious about seeing the film).
Run Time: 149 minutes
My Rating: 4/5
Last night my wife and I went and saw the much anticipated Gone Girl brought to us by Twentieth Century Fox.  The film is based upon the book by the same name written by Gillian Flynn and was directed by David Fincher and stars Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris, and Tyler Perry.  The film details the story of Nick Dunne, a man who on his fifth anniversary returns home from work to see his wife, Amy Elliot Dunne, missing and the house torn up.  He calls the police and now he is stuck in the middle of an investigation where as each clue begins to unfold the more  Nick Dunne doesn't seem like the perfect husband but the perfect killer.  The film takes so many twists and turns that by the end of the movie the audience won't know what to think.
Now I had read the book this summer and so I was really excited about this movie.  To my surprise, the movie completely lived up to my expectations.  I can't lie the film was fantastic.  The actors work so well together and have such great chemistry that the film literally seems real.  The two leads Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike both provide Oscar-worthy performances with their performances as the happy couple.  Ben Affleck acts just as smug and just as guilty as the book presents his character to be which makes the audience hate him more and more as the film progresses.  Though Ben Affleck's performance is fantastic and brilliant, it is really the performance of Rosamund Pike, who takes home the acting gold.  Throughout the film Rosamund Pike gives a chilling performance that completely sets the mood of the film and really ties the film together.  Also the score of the film is just as chilling and is so effective in the film that it can send chills up and down your spine.
For those of you that have read the book you should be aware that there are some differences between the book and the film.  One thing is the ending.  Now it isn't a huge difference, but it doesn't end the way it does in the book.  Also Mark Twain's birthplace does not appear in the film as does the clue that goes with it.
Also a warning for those that have not read the book, the film is dark.  It can be a little unsettling at first and it will take some getting used to.  It will stay dark throughout the entire movie and is something that you should be prepared to deal with if you go and see the film.
Now there is one thing that bugged me about the film and for this reason it didn't get a 5 on my rating scale and that is the content within.  There are some moments in the film that definitely do not have to be there.  One is within the first 10 minutes of the film.  It is graphic and can be uncomfortable and really doesn't add anything to the film.  The next one appears close to the end.  Nothing is really seen, but the noises are there.  So just beware of that.  Also the thing that really bugged me about the film is a use of an expletive that really is unnecessary for anyone to use.  The worst part is that it was used in the last 5 minutes of the film, multiple times.  It completely bugs me because it does nothing to the film and really they could have used any other word and it would have given the same meaning.
Overall, I thought the film was fantastic.  It really is a great mystery thriller and I would recommend seeing it with some caution.  The cast has great chemistry, the score is magnificent, and the film delivers on all aspects.  We will definitely be hearing about this film for the next couple of months as the Fall awards season begins to take off.

Thanks again for reading and if you have any questions, comments, or ideas please let know.  I would love to hear them.

P.S. There is one more thing about the film's advertisement and the film itself that I need to talk about, but it doesn't really have to do with my review.  It is more of a soapbox about marriage.  The critics say and the film tries to portray that this is what marriage is truly like.  Let me just say that is a load of crap.  The film depicts marriage as two people who live together, but drift apart after only a few years.  It then depicts it as a couple who completely hate each other and seek revenge on each other.  Now I know I haven't been married for long, I get that, but if this is what marriage is like then why would anyone do it.  There are so many couples today that have been together for decades that are still happy and love each other very much.  Yes marriage is hard, but it is also one of the most gratifying experiences of your life.  Being with someone that truly loves you and that you truly love is an experience that should never be dismissed.  Now there are some people in marriage that make idiotic choices that ruin marriages with no fault on the other partner.  That sucks!!!!!  Those people deserve to be angry.  That doesn't mean that the other partner wants to kill them.  They may be angry, but not murderous.
Marriage is fantastic!! I love my wife so much and marrying her was the single most important decision that I have ever made!! I wouldn't change my decision for the world.  I have been so happy these past 6 months and the past year and a half that we have been a couple.  Yes, we have our hard times, but they only make us grow closer as a couple.  I love her so much and I don't know what my life would be without her.
Hollywood says that they portray real life, but there is no truth to that.  When you see this film please understand that marriage is not like what is seen on the screen.  It is exactly the opposite.  If Hollywood wants to claim they portray real life, they can, but its interesting to see that what Hollywood portrays as real life is all the negatives about life.  They never focus on the positive things of life and that is where Hollywood fails greatly.

My Top 10 Movies to Watch This October

Hey everyone, so as I mentioned in my first post that I love horror movies and really Halloween in general.  I don't know why, but I love the adrenaline that I feel when I watch a horror movie.  For this reason I have been called weird, and a freak.  I don't really care though.   My wife on the other hand hates my horror movie craze because that means she either has to watch them or go to bed alone while I watch them by myself.  For these reasons I have decided to provide you with my Top 10 Horror/Halloween movies that I know I will watch and I think if you can handle it you should watch this October.

10. Hocus Pocus (1993)
MPAA Rating: PG for some scary sequences, and for language
Ok, now I know this isn't a horror movie, but no Halloween movie is no more fun than this film brought to us by Disney.  Hocus Pocus is about the Sanderson sisters (Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy), who are brought back to life 300 years after their death, thanks to spell that was spoken accidentally by Max, new-kid-in-town.  Now it is up to Max, and his new friends to stop the Sanderson sisters from using their witchcraft to destroy Salem and to take revenge on the ancestors that killed them so many years ago.
This film is one of my favorites and it is a film that the whole family can watch.  This film has a lot of humor and really has a lot of life lessons to be learned throughout the film.  It is definitely one that should be watched.  This film is usually played on the Disney Channel or on ABC Family during the month of October.

9. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
MPAA Rating: PG for some scary images.
Once again I know this isn't a horror movie, but for some reason I love it.  I used to have a tradition of seeing this film every October in IMAX until they stopped providing it.  This film is also brought by Disney from the great mind of Tim Burton.  This film is about Jack, the Pumpkin King, who lives in Halloween Town, a place where some Halloween is every day and the monsters that kids dream about live..  While he is trying to find the meaning of his life and how to make his life more purposeful.  During his journey he finds his way into Christmas Town where he learns all about Christmas and believes that if he brought Christmas to Halloween Town life would be better.
This film is amazing.  The animation is spectacular and it is just enough weird that I like it.  This film is for all ages, but does have some scary moments so if you are watching it with little kids I would be cautious.  This film is usually played on the Disney Channel or on ABC Family during the month of October and December.

8. Final Destination (2000)
MPAA Rating: R for violence and terror, and for language
Ok, now this is a horror movie and if you can't handle some violence or gore, I really would be cautious about it.  The film is about Alex, a high school age boy who while boarding a plane with his high school class on their way to France, has a premonition of the plane crashing upon take off.  When he suddenly realizes what is going to happen, he makes a big scene and eventually get himself and a few others kicked off the plane prior to takeoff.  When the plane finally takes off, Alex and the others see the plane crash just as Alex said it would.  Thinking that they had escaped death they try to live their lives knowing that they should have been on that flight.  Suddenly the people that got off the plane are dying one by one and if the others can't figure out what is happening they may be next on Death's list.
This film is an intriguing one.  There are multiple sequels to this movie and if you like this one I definitely recommend watching those.  I recommend this one because it is so creative.  There is a lot of gruesome deaths in this movie so I would be cautious if you don't like that kind of stuff.  It is great though and definitely worth a watch this October.

7. When a Stranger Calls (2006)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for intense terror, violence and some language
For anyone who babysits or who has babysit this film will scare you.  Jill Johnson (Camille Bell)
believes that her parents signed her up for a routine babysitting job when she is forced to babysit at a big house all by herself.  The parents have already put the children to bed and say that she is free to whatever she wants in the house.  Time passes by, but eventually she receives a phone call and all she hears is breathing on the other end.  This happens multiple times until finally the voice on the other end asks, "Have you checked the children?".  It is then up to Jill to protect the children and protect herself from the psycho that is on the other end.
My wife and I for as long as we have known each other have watched this show every October and every October my wife gets scared at the exact same parts.  This film definitely hits close to home for a lot of people and is definitely a good one to watch.

6. Friday the 13th (1980)
MPAA Rating: R
No list can be complete without the infamous Jason Voorhees.  He is the hockey-masked killer of the Friday the 13th franchise and has been an Halloween icon since the original was released in 1980.  What most people don't know however is that in the original film he was only briefly mentioned, but it was actually someone else who began terrorizing campers.  The film is about campers and camp counselors at Camp Crystal Lake who are trying to get past the horrible incident that happen a year prior when one of the campers drowned in the lake.  Eventually the campers begin to be terrorized by someone who kills them without any notice or reason.
Though Jason Voorhees only has a brief role in this film he still makes the most of it.  It is his role in this film that many have come to say is the scariest moment in all of the franchise.  Though there are many sequels and a remake, nothing quite beats this original, but the 2009 remake is definitely close.  This franchise is definitely a can't miss this October.

5. Halloween (1978)
MPAA Rating: R
Once again, this list wouldn't be complete without the man who started it all Michael Myers.  The Halloween franchise is what really revived the horror movie craze here in America.  It was the first original American made horror film and so many directors have tried to mimic what made Halloween so great.  The film is about Michael Myers, a man who was institutionalized when he was a child who escapes on Halloween night and begins terrorizing babysitters in his hometown.  As he continues on his rampage, his doctor, Dr. Loomis, is trying to find him and capture him before his patient kills any more people.
The Halloween franchise was supposed to be a anthology franchise which was supposed to be released every year with a new terror being presented each year.  After this movie was released and Michael Myers became such an icon the plan was destroyed and this began the blooming franchise that still continues today.

4. Darkness Falls (2003)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for terror and horror images, and brief language
I have to admit when I first heard about this movie I was a little wary about how good it was going to be.  I was pleasantly surprised with what I saw in this film and it definitely has some great scenes that will terrify anyone who watches it.  This film follows Kyle who all while growing up hears stories about the Tooth Fairy.  People always told him, "Don't Peek," or else he wouldn't survive the night.  When the night comes when he loses his first tooth, he places it under his pillow.  During the night he hears the Tooth Fairy and he accidentally takes a peek.  He somehow survives the night, but he has never been the same since.  Now years later, the Tooth Fairy is back for revenge trying to take another kid's life.  It is now up to Kyle, the only person to ever survive the Tooth Fairy's attack, to confront his worst fear and save the town he loves.
This film is actually really good and definitely a good one to watch if you are into the whole horror thing.  It definitely takes a new spin on a childhood tale that will make you wonder what is real and what is fake.

3. Insidious (2010)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic material, violence, terror and frightening images, and brief strong language.
This film is scary.  For me, a person who doesn't get scared, I was even on the edge of my seat during this film.  It has so many elements that work for it, that it seems so original.  This film is about a family whose son Dalton falls into a coma.  No one can really understand how it started and no doctor can cure him.  Eventually the family requests the services of Elise, a psychic/ghost hunter, who tells the family that their son has become lost in the Further, a place where demons hide and try to take over unsuspecting human bodies.  It is now up to Elise and Dalton's family to enter into the Further to retrieve Dalton before the demon that is trying to enter this world through Dalton can accomplish it.
This film has a lot of great elements that you want in a horror movie.  It has originality and scares that could terrify anyone who watches it.  In 2013 they released a sequel to the film which was equally as great.  If you like this film I definitely recommend seeing the second one.  A 3rd film in the franchise has been announced and is set for release in March of next year.

2. The Conjuring (2013)
MPAA Rating: R for sequences of disturbing violence and terror
This film came out last year and took the country by storm.  It was the first horror film to be released in the blockbuster-heavy summer and this one held its own.  It debuted at #1 in its weekend and had an incredibly strong box-office run.  The film is based on a true story and is about Carolyn and Roger Perron who move into a new house with their children.  Not long after moving in the children begin seeing things and hearing many strange noises throughout the house.  Eventually they receive the help from Ed and Lorraine Warren, ghost hunters who have a track record of success.  Soon things become even worse and it is up to the Warrens to stop this presence from not only attacking the Perrons, but also their family as well.
This film is one of the best haunted house stories to come around in ages.  It is creepy and definitely worth a watch.  The film was such a huge success that it is receiving a sequel sometime next year and has spawned a spin-off Annabelle which will be released in theaters October 3, 2014.

1. The Ring (2002)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic elements, disturbing images, language and some drug references
This film was the first horror movie that I ever watched and has stuck with me all these years.  The film is based on the popular Japanese film Ringu and follows Rachel Keller (Naomi Watts) who is investigating a videotape that caused the supposed death of her niece.  As Rachel continues her investigation she realizes that the videotape has a haunted history and if she doesn't figure out how to stop the videotape she may become the next victim of its reign of terror in 7 short days.
Like I said, this film was the first horror movie I watched and it is really what hooked me to them.  I definitely recommend this film to anyone who wants to be scared.  The sequel is just as good and just as creepy.  It was announced just a month ago that there will be a Ring 3 that supposedly will delve deeper into how the cursed videotape got made.

Well there you go.  I hope this helps.  Once again if you have any questions or concerns just let me know.