An Assortment of Horror

I've really been on a horror kick lately. For a while I avoided it entirely because all I could find were generic slashers as far as movies were concerned and predictable plots for novels. However, things have been looking up lately, as I've been turning towards older movies and cult hits once again. Here are a few of the highlights this month.

The horror aspect of The Fly is pretty slow to pick up if we're being completely honest. All the same, it's a great movie, and when the horror does start occurring...well. I'll admit there was one scene towards the end that had me squirming uncomfortably. The Fly is a great example of 80s horror at it's best and the makeup is fantastic.

This was actually a re-watch for me, but I'm going to mention it anyway because Hellraiser has got to be my favorite horror movie of all time. The giant Pinhead poster over my wall says a lot about how I feel about the film. To be honest, I'm a bit obsessed. Obsessed enough to stick through the train wreck that was the franchise after Hollywood got a hold of it. Granted, number three wasn't awful, but everything after that makes me cringe. Still, the first two movies are horror movie gold in my opinion, and I highly recommend the book it was based off of as well.

Eraserhead is at the top of the list of movies that have disturbed me so deeply I'm not sure I want to watch them again. The whole movie is unsettling from start to finish, with it's black and white arthouse style and surreal filming. There's one scene at the end that I just really don't want to think about too hard, but I can appreciate this movie as a work of art, as well as an absolutely horrifying film.

  

You can't go wrong with Vincent Price. You just can't. I love every single one of his B-grade, cheesy, wonderful horror films and House of Wax was no exception. I didn't like it as much as say, The Abominable Dr. Phibes, but it's undeniably a masterpiece.

Ok now this has actually been a consistent horror source in my life so I can't say it's a new discovery. However, season two has been airing and I feel the need to express how wonderful it is. Season one was a fresh take on the many escapades of Hannibal Lecter, (And of course, I fell in love with Will Graham immediately) but season two hasn't lost any of the creativeness of the first, while amping up the horror aspect. They're not holding back anymore, and let me tell you, the cinematography in this show is phenomenal. As are the relationships between the characters, dialogue, and of course, death scenes.

Finally, a book! This is one of the coolest books I've read in a very long time. The horror in this book is the  kind that nags at the back of your mind and doesn't want to let go. It's psychologically unsettling, no gore here, but it really doesn't need it. The premise is simply a house who's inner dimensions don't match it's outer ones, but that discrepency turns into something no one could ever have expected. The only thing with House of Leaves is that the format is extremely bizarre. The whole thing isn't like that, but I had to put several hours into this book in order to make sense of some of it. Just google the book and you'll see what I mean. You're either going to find it very pretentious, or extremely clever and fun.

This has been sitting at the bottom of my movie list for a very long time and I finally got around to watching it. I didn't expect to love it the way I did. The costumes are a Goth's dream and the story an absolutely delicious concept. Is it perfect? No. But it doesn't have to be because Repo was a thrill ride from start to finish. Graverobber's songs were my favorite so it's a shame we didn't see more of him. I think it's safe to say I've developed another character crush... Now I'm off to watch the Devil's Carnival!

I don't know where to start with this movie. I went to Vancouver Fan Expo this weekend (There will be pics quite soon) and one of the panels featured the Soska Sisters, AKA The Twisted Twins. They. Were. Wonderful. I have to say I enjoyed their panel the most. They weren't afraid to curse, tell stories about running away from cops while filming, or to be brutally honest about the pieces of themselves they put into this movie. I don't know if they identify as Goths, but they certainly had the aesthetic. I was ridiculously happy to see some girl directors. They weren't afraid to call out sexism and also they hit on me in front of everyone which was wonderful. Basically, this movie deals with a lot of issues like rape and sexism, and also heavily features the body mod community. A lot of research went into this film and I highly recommend it.

Costume Appreciation

My entire spring break has been spent absorbing movies, shows, video games, comics...honestly the list goes on and on. Since I've decided not to leave my house and simply vegetate for two weeks I've have been falling in love with a lot of character costumes. Will I actually take inspiration from them in my day to day wear? Well, maybe. Probably not. I did a post a short while ago detailing characters I've actually been taking inspiration from. While I've fallen in love with these, incorporating elements from most of them wouldn't be...practical. Practical or not, I want to thank the wardrobe and styling departments, or artists, responsible for all of these ensembles.

Jareth

Ok so I doubt there are many people here who haven't seen Labyrinth at some point in their life. I'm sure I'm not the only one who drooled over Bowie every time he made an appearance. Scratch that, I know I'm not. That being said, I don't care if this is old news because the costumes in that movie are fabulous. When in doubt, add more leather. And glitter. All of the glitter apparently. Not to mention, that hair speaks for itself. Labyrinth is one of those movies I consider a mandatory re-watch at least once a year.  Getting excited about the costumes (The ball scene anyone?) is just a bonus.


Worried About the Boy

This is actually a TV film about the life of Boy George that I didn't know existed until a few weeks ago. The movie is excellent, but the costumes take the cake. fThis is just one of the many gems to be be found in the film and it's certainly not just the actor playing Boy George who gets the good stuf. The alternative 80s are in full swing, especially the New Romantics (of course) so there's no shortage of dramatic, brilliant looks.


Amadeus

Amadeus is equal parts silly and serious and it remains one of my favorite movies. All that aside, I'm a sucker for period costumes like this (ridiculous wigs aside) and the jackets and frilly things make me deliriously happy. Whenever I watch movies like this or Marie Antoinette (though I can't say I recommend that one) it awakens the romantic goth in me and I immediately want to go out and buy a jabot.


Malfatto 

Is there anything I would ever want to wear in real life that even remotely resembles this? Well, no. Malfatto is very high on my cosplay list, but I won't be rocking the plague doctor look in public any time soon. No, definitely not. That being said, it's dark green and black! One of my new favorite color combinations. There are a million buttons, his hat is wonderful, and up close that mask is exquisite. So it's really too bad he was such a minor character, because I would have loved to see more of that costume.


Kingdom of Heaven

I saw this for the first time last week and while it was very enjoyable, I couldn't help but notice every historical accuracy that popped up in the film. It's an unavoidable internal battle with me most of the time... and there were a lot of inaccuracies. However, the costumes were gorgeous. I fell in love with the King's outfit immediately (as well as his personality). Besides serving it's functional purpose the white and silver costume had such an ethereal quality. The mask he wears to the battle site is even more beautiful. As for Sibylla, most of her outfits were lovely, but the one she wore in her first appearance is my favorite one of all.


 Zodiac 

 Ah the 70s... Besides the fact that this movie is phenomenal, it's also got a few great wardrobe choices. Robert Downie Jr. was rocking most of the outfits I liked, so I may be a bit biased, but no matter. Waistcoat and ascot? Why not? That could be a really cute outfit done right.


Lady Loki

Well, we all know Loki is one of my favorite Marvel characters, and another drool-worthy one ever since Tom Hiddleston took up the role. But what about Lady Loki? Some of my favorite comics featuring Loki are the ones where he's in his female form. (Sif's body if we're going to get really nit-picky) She's gorgeous, and she can pull of the scales and fur. Me? Not so much. You won't see me walking around with that diadem in public, but I wouldn't be opposed to threading some gold discs through my hair on the days I'm feeling dramatic. 


What about you? Do you ever take inspiration from fictional characters, or fall in love with a costume knowing it'll be difficult to emulate without looking costume-y? Do you make little nods to people with accessories? Or do you just decide to find a way to make it work? Or maybe I'm just crazy. There's always that.

7 Dark Christmas Movies/Episodes to Watch

Hello everyone! I've just been dead this month haven't I? Well never fear. I've returned with a holiday inspired post. With Christmas just around the corner sometimes you get the urge to see something a little more festive. But we've all seen the classics, so how about some darker things to watch before the holiday season ends?

Gremlins

I saw this when I was three and subsequently had nightmares for weeks. Nowadays, needless to say it's a lot less scary and more fun to view. Gremlins is one of those ridiculous classics that doesn't get any less entertaining as time goes on and being set during the Christmas season it becomes a great holiday movie.

Batman Returns

This isn't something that comes immediately to mind when you think Christmas movies, but it's certainly a good one. Much darker than it's predecessor, the holiday theme of Batman Returns is a nice contrast to the grim tale. Also, come on, it's Batman. Who needs an excuse to watch that?

Tales From the Crypt: All Through the House

Who remembers this wonderful show? If you're lucky boils and ghouls, you'll be able to find this one on Youtube somewhere. Most episodes from this delightfully cheesy show ere good and this one sports a murdering wife and even more murderous Santa Claus.

Edward Scissorhands

Not quite a Christmas movie, but it's got enough holiday elements to warrant watching it and I don't think most of us would turn down this lovely movie. It's emotional and snow-covered, which is enough to make it count in my book.

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale

This Finnish horror film cover the gruesome and gory side of Christmas quite well. The Santa unearthed in this film 'punishes' naughty children instead of rewarding the good ones and the results are not pleasant. The Saint Nick here isn't the one we know and love.

 A Very Supernatural Christmas

Supernatural is a great show full of ghost, demons, myths, and one liners. Of course, after nine seasons it's a getting spread a little thin, but I remain a faithful fan. This episode has pagan gods, dark humor, and a creepy-cheerful holiday vibe. It's highly recommended.

 Christmas With The Addams Family

Ok so The Addams Family is always a delight and this Christmas themed episode is as adorable as ever. We should all strive to have a Christmas as unique as theirs

I didn't put The Nightmare Before Christmas or Black Christmas up here because I think they're pretty obvious choices. However, you guys get a bonus if you watch Gingerdead man and let me know how bad it is. Happy holidays!

Halloween Masterpost

I had so many plans for Halloween posts that failed to materialize. We had a bit of trouble getting wifi set up in our new house and I've only just got it back. Let me tell you, you don't realize how much you use the internet until you're completely deprived of it for a couple weeks. Homework was a nightmare.


Instead of all the fun, creative things I had planned to write I'm going to do one big (Really big) Halloween roundup and save those ideas for next year. Let's see how long I can go before I bore you to a premature death. So, to start off, how about some books that will get you in the Halloween spirit? Many may be rereads, but they'll always be great.

    


Of course, then you've got movies. Halloween wouldn't be Halloween without a few scary (or hilariously cheesy) movies. There's a little for everyone here.


    

       

          

Us Goths really listen to 'spooky' music all year round, but having a specific Halloween playlist is always fun. Here are some of the things I have on mine.


Everyday is Halloween- Ministry

Monsters in Tinsel Town- Astrovamps

Filistata- Stolen Babies

Don't Fear the Reaper- Blue Oyster Cult

Moundshroud- Cinema Strange

Mommy's little monsters- Creature Feature (Though you might as well just play all of their songs)

Dragula- Rob Zombie

Dead Man's Autochop- Specimen

Day of the Dead- Voltaire (I was very tempted to put Brainz)

Here are some quick and fun crafts to spice up your house.

• Little ghosts 
• Mummy jars 
• Skeleton wreath
• Spiderweb frames
• Adorable balloon bats

And of course, here are some of my favorite posts so far dealing with Halloween.

• Sary Walrus found a video that involves pumpkin carving with Elvira.
• Meagan Kyla wore this adorable jack-o-lantern outfit
• Ariadne Blackmoore has a great automaton makeup tutorial
• The HouseCat speaks out against 'Goth' Halloween costumes
• Mary Rose linked to a bunch of awesome Halloween makeup tutorials

If you've made it this far down, I visited a haunted corn maze last weekend and it was fantastic. They put a lot of effort into it. We got lost several times only to be chased back by some horror (The chainsaws...*shudders*) and I was suitably terrifed. Not to mention it was only $8. Let me tell you, I always recommend haunted corn mazes. Go out searching!

What is everyone dressing up as? I'm going as Cecil from Welcome to Nightvale. My headcannon is more or less the popular one with included third eye and tentacle tattoos. I'm planning an actual cosplay for April so I figured this would get me halfway there. Pictures to come in a few days.

Outfit Dump + Greetings from Jupiter

Well I'm still chillin' over here in West Palm (Jupiter to be more specific. Florida, not the planet.) with nothing much to do. The remnants of the passing tropical storm finally blew over, so that's a relief. I've mostly been lazing about in my PJs and when we've gone out I've just rehashed old things you've seen before, so no new outfits to share this week. On the other hand, I can't seem to stop buying things when I'm out! My parents are going to regret leaving me with money, but there are just so many lovely things over here. I did spend some of the money on my mom and best friend, which eases the guilt a bit. And I managed to separate myself from two lovely scarves at Macy's and a million things at H & M, which I think shows a small degree of self-restraint. *coughs*

Food by the way, has been fantastic. Especially the Seafood. At this one restaurant alone we received Tuna, Duck, Mussels, Goat cheese torritzo(?), and Hog Fish. Suffice to say I was in heaven. And squid ink pasta! I'd never tried that before, but it was lovely.

The pasta was black!

Gelato anyone?

We were at the mall the other day and stumbled across Teavana, where they were giving out free samples. Well I'm not one to say no to fresh, steaming hot tea, no matter how small the sample cup, and wow was it good. They're based in Atlanta so if you reside in the southern states I'd seriously advise checking out their website and seeing if there's something near you. It was so nice to actually purchase a loose leaf brew as well, instead of cheap tea bags from the grocery store. Of course, it's a bit expensive, and I'm sure there's better, cheaper tea to buy, but it was readily accessible so it was worth it to me. I liked the Youthberry a lot, but ended up walking out with Dragonfruit Devotion. Though that may have been a result of the absolutely gorgeous employee in there. No seriously, this guy was smokin' hot. *fans self* And Teavana obviously doesn't care about self-expression on the job considering he had stretched ears and I spotted another Goth working the counter. If she hadn't been busy I would have complimented her ankh ;)

Anyway, I have a few outfits here from right before school ended that I thought I'd share with you guys. I got caught up in Red and Black Week and didn't have a chance to post them.

This shirt is flowy so it's perfect for summer
Bejeweled skulls? Of course I can be cheesy~

I don't own much white, but I love this jacket
I could only wear it because the air-conditioning at school was so cold

New dress! New dress! New dress!

So how about that new Star Trek movie? I can say it certainly made me happy. I'm a pretty big Trekkie/Trekker/Whatever (That debate is so pointless). I've seen all of The Original Series and will defend it to the death, and I catch The Next Generation reruns on TV sometimes. Personally, I think they're doing a pretty decent job with the new movies. Yeah, yeah, "The old stuff will always be the better" and all that jazz, but I'm whole-heartedly enjoying these films as well. I smiled all the way through Into Darkness.

 *SPOILERS*

A lot of people have been complaining about the whitewashing of Khan. Does Hollywood suck for it? Of course. Should they have cast a person of color to play him as the North Indian he's supposed to be? Obviously. I'm irked too. However, I'm also getting slightly annoyed at the people who are so angry that Benedict is white, that they downplay his performance. (Also, I'd like the be able to go on the Into Darkness tag on Tumblr without seeing only text posts and hate spewed left and right. I want GIFS dammit) He got the role because he was a good actor as well, and I think he did a marvelous job.

Point in fact, the new movie was a lot of fun and you should go watch it. There wasn't a boring moment, and sassy Spock is fabulous. Not to mention, there are a lot of parallels with The Wrath of Khan and little Easter eggs in this film. Tribbles anyone? 

They know you haven't seen it yet. They're judging you ;)

Red and Black Week Day 6~ Hell Bunny Dress

I've been waiting all week to use this outfit. I wore it last week when I was feeling particularly dressy and wanted to post it right away, but the logical side of me reminded me that Red and Black Week was just around the corner. And now I can it show off!

This dress was one of the more expensive things I've purchased lately. I love Hell Bunny dresses for their 50s feel, especially the ones that draw from pin up styles. I'm really in love with the neckline of this one. It was definitely worth the money. The red belt that came with it was too big, so I had to improvise with one of mine.

I tried so hard to fix the light on these photos to no avail >.<

Winged eyeliner, nice eyebrows, and red lipstick completed the look and I ended up curling my hair to match the vintage vibe. People kept telling me I looked like someone from a movie, so I was extraordinarily happy throughout the day~

As for today's movie, I'm watching a thriller called Red Eye. I've seen this movie once before and really liked it. The main reason I saw it in the first place was because Cillian Murphy was in it, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked the film in the end. It's a good character-driven,  psychological thriller.

Red and Black Week Day 5~ Wishlist

Well my summer vacation has finally started. My brother and I are staying with our 'adoptive aunt' down in West Palm Beach for about a week while my parents take a trip. Of course, it's the first day of vacation and we're already dealing with a huge tropical storm, so I'm barricaded inside for the next day or two. I suppose I'll be spending a lot of time with my electronics ;)

I did a wishlist for the event last year where I showcased all of the red and black things I had been craving, and I'm going to do it again this year. There are just so many pretty things that I don't have money to spend on. I can't help bookmarking them and lamenting over my lack of money at least once a week. It's become a habit~

So now I simply need to find a way to pay for all of this...hm. I hear the words 'summer job' reverberating through my mind. We'll see. As for the movie today, I picked another favorite of mine. The Devil's Advocate is a fantastic movie that I'd gladly watch over and over again.