REVIEW: Rob Zombie shines light into Michael Myers’ past
Michael Myers from the 1978 'Halloween' film steps into the spotlight:
Halloween is just around the corner, and cable channels, such as HBO and Showtime, are filling up with horror films, from classics to newbies.
The 1978 “Halloween”, which starred Jamie Lee Curtis and was directed by John Carpenter, is an American classic slasher film. The eerie deep breathing of Michael Myers panting under his mask raises goose bumps as he approaches his next victim. The victim will soon dramatically scream with horrific facial expressions that today’s viewers may find comical.
Though this film is respected as one of the most iconic horror movies of all time, we are left with many unanswered questions. Who is the 10-year-old boy behind the clown suit? Why is this now older man out for blood after 15 years of captivity?
Rob Zombie comes to our rescue 19 years later with a reboot, answering these questions and many more. Rather than jumping into 10-year-old Michael’s mysteriously provoked slashing scene of his older sister, Judith, Rob Zombie introduces many psychopathic behaviors that little Michael exploits before the brutal murder. Rob Zombie successfully plants an identity to the psychopath by telling a chilling background story.
We can’t help but feel bad for young Michael as his love for his mother and baby sister is that of a sweet
and caring little boy; however, he is faced with a number of traumatic family and social problems that push him to his breaking point. As Michael begins his killing spree, we realize this emotional trauma has left him severely disturbed.
Rob Zombie sparks a whole new perception of Michael Myers. Of course, he is not condoning his psychopathic tendencies, but he adds a sense of, “aw, poor kid,” rather than, “what a freak.” The 1978 film painted the “freakazoid” impression by not providing more information about the troubled psychopath’s past. Maybe John Carpenter did this intentionally; however, today’s viewers require the answers to “why” and how.”
Both films bring important aspects to the table. The 1978 film will forever be a horror classic, and you can’t help but appreciate the over-dramatic acting. Rob Zombie guides us into Michael’s deranged childhood and shines light on why the boy behind the clown mask slashed his sister and numerous more years later. Both the 1978 film and Rob Zombie’s reboot will send chills up your spine. (Deep breathing fading out).
