The following pages analyze 111 horror films grouped in 18 franchises. These franchises feature an antagonist, or villain, who has been present in all or most films. These antagonists are so iconic that they have, in all cases, generated multiple sequels. All movies contained in this book are rated, ranked and compared to each other.
Midsommar
A grieving woman, her boyfriend, and his friends visit a village owned by a cult.
United States
Hungary
Sweden
Wizard Film
A badass trip!
Photography
Dialogue
Ambiance
Midsommar mesmerizes us with its mind fucking cinematography. From the moment the main cast travels to Sweden, drink shroom tea, and lay down on the grass, the summer scenery becomes a character. We see what they see. They’re tripping every other scene. The way Ari Aster, writer and director, plays with his environment, sometimes basic, sometimes intricate, is remarkable.
So, this is the story of a strange pagan cult, but who could fall for all their posturing? It’s like they’re putting on a show for someone; for the camera, or for some god, possibly. The protagonists, at some point, start suspecting things are not as they seem. Florence Pugh plays the main character, who mostly speaks with her eyes. At some point, though, her point of view is no longer reliable.
The paintings and the architecture are gorgeous. White is a prominent color. The cultists dress in white. There are flowers everywhere. This is a beautiful film. We’re supposed to feel like we’re in heaven. Make no mistake, this is a horror movie. You’re going to see red sooner than later. Horror movies shot in broad daylight are a rarity. This one is particularly effective. It’s a trademark.
