House (1986)

★★★★☆

Director: Steve Miner
Studio: New World Pictures

Synopsis:
A comedy/horror film starring William Katt, George Wendt, Richard Moll and Kay Lenz.

Roger Cobb is a Vietnam veteran, whose career as a horror novelist takes a turn for the worse when his son Jimmy mysteriously disappears while visiting an Aunt's house. Rogers' obsessive search for Jimmy ultimately dissolves both his marriage and his writing career and the sudden death of his Aunt brings Roger back to the HOUSE where his nightmares began. The evil that lurks within the house forces Roger to endure a harrowing journey into his past.


Mike's Thoughts:
By now, you more than likely have come to the conclusion that I'm a sucker for campy, low-budget comedy/horror and this film encompasses everything I love in the genre.
This movie has it all...lovable 1980's celebrities, a light-hearted and interesting plot, and special effects that bleed camp. I will always cherish this film as a landmark in the genre and will defend it til death.

Look For:
Jimmy. Roger needs some help.

The Unnamable (1988)

★★★☆☆

Director: Jean-Paul Ouellette
Studio: Vidmark/Trimark

Synopsis:
In this unsettling tale based on a short story by H.P. Lovecraft, a group of college students set out to prove that the infamous Winthrop House isn't haunted. But just a few hours into their slumber party, they realize they aren't alone. Turns out the lingering rumors about a terrifying creature that was born there some 300 years ago are true ... a being so gruesome its parents couldn't bear to give it a name.




Mike's Thoughts:
As I have stated in the past, I am addicted to all things Lovecraft, so my impressions are usually pretty biased. All in all though, this is a typical
1980's take on a classic H.P. Lovecraft story that in my opinion, delivers.
There is a shortage of recently produced films based on Lovecraft writings, so in order to find anything of notoriety, one must delve into the spectacular realm of the 1980's. Here in this period, we find films that defy the lack of large studio funding, time-induced advanced film technology, and the absence of mullet
hairstyles. This film is one to be seen if you are a Lovecraft fan, enjoy spooky atmospheres, stereotypical characters and/or geeky leading men. A film that is here to stay.

Look For:
The aloof and intellectually judgmental acting by Mark Kinsey Stephenson
(Randolph Carter)