Ranking All 13 ‘Halloween’ Movies: Highlights and Lowlights
The Halloween film franchise, spanning over four decades, has become a quintessential part of horror cinema. With a total of 13 films, the series features iconic moments, memorable characters, and a range of storytelling approaches. However, not all installments have received equal praise. Below, we explore the highlights and lowlights of each film in the franchise.
Ranking All 13 Halloween Movies
1. Halloween (2018)
Directed by David Gordon Green, this film is a direct sequel to the 1978 original. It brings back Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode, now a hardened survivor. The film effectively resets the franchise, reaffirming Michael Myers’ status as a terrifying presence. With music composed by John Carpenter, it is regarded as one of the best entries in the series.
2. Halloween Ends
This film closes the modern trilogy with a unique narrative. Despite dividing fans with its Michael Myers copycat, its introspective tone provides closure for Laurie and Michael. It is praised for its emotional depth, marking it as one of the standout installments.
3. Halloween Kills
Serving as the middle chapter of the latest trilogy, this installment is filled with wild chaos. Featuring a local mob confronting Michael Myers, it boasts some of the franchise’s most shocking kills. Despite its chaotic approach, it is considered one of the most entertaining films.
4. Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers
After the controversial Season of the Witch, this film marks Michael’s comeback. It introduces Jamie Lloyd, played by Danielle Harris. With a nostalgic late-’80s horror feel, it is appreciated by fans, despite the criticism of Michael’s mask design.
5. Halloween H20: 20 Years Later
This entry resurrects Jamie Lee Curtis’s Laurie Strode and updates the series for a new era. Set ten years after the events of the original films, Curtis’s performance makes it another fan-favorite. The film blends nostalgia with contemporary thrills effectively.
6. Halloween: Resurrection
Despite its infamous reputation, this film entertains with its bizarre elements. It features a memorable moment where Busta Rhymes confronts Michael Myers in a unique blend of reality TV and horror. While loathed by some, it has its charm.
7. Halloween (1978)
Regarded as a classic, John Carpenter’s original film essentially defined modern horror. Starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Donald Pleasence, its chilling atmosphere continues to influence the genre today. While some argue it may be overrated, its impact is indisputable.
8. Halloween II (1981)
This sequel picks up directly after the original. Co-written by Carpenter, it includes more gore and deepens the lore surrounding Laurie Strode. Although it loses some of the simplicity of its predecessor, it is still a solid continuation.
9. Rob Zombie’s Halloween II (2009)
In this gritty sequel, director Rob Zombie takes the story into darker territory. Tyler Mane’s portrayal of Michael Myers brings a new intensity. Despite its divisive reception, it offers a unique narrative perspective that some viewers appreciate.
10. Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers
This sixth installment attempts to incorporate a complex backstory involving cults and druids. While Donald Pleasence’s final performance adds weight, the chaotic narrative fails to resonate with many fans.
11. Rob Zombie’s Halloween (2007)
Zombie’s remake delves into Michael Myers’ troubled childhood but frequently veers into graphic violence. While attempting to provide depth, it often feels like a rehash of Carpenter’s original, disappointing many fans.
12. Halloween III: Season of the Witch
This unique entry diverges from the Michael Myers storyline, leading to a mixed reception. Its odd premise and lack of the iconic villain nearly derailed the franchise during its release, though it has since gained a cult following.
13. Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers
Often criticized for its rushed production, this film fails to build upon its predecessor’s setup effectively. Its convoluted plot and absurd dialogue contribute to an overall sense of boredom, marking it as one of the lesser entries in the series.
The Halloween franchise remains a defining influence in horror cinema, illustrating both the challenges and triumphs of sustaining a long-running series over the years. Each installment brings its own unique flavor, ensuring that the legacy of Michael Myers endures. Which Halloween film stands out for you? Share your thoughts with us at Emegypt!
