Happy Halloween

One of my favorite times of years. When on nearly every channel is something scary, spooky, or wickedly creepy. Ahhh ... can't every day be like this? Really, it's so much fun!

I've had conversations with many of my friends—some who are horror fans and others ... not so much—on why I love scary stories. Can't say this is why others are attracted to them, but these are my reasons. Feel free to add your own:

1. Good vs. Evil
   In many horror movies, there is strong, well-defined line between good and evil. And, in most cases, good triumphs (unless there's a sequel). In real life, there is so much gray with the "bad" not getting what's coming to it. It's nice to see it played out on the screen with the "bad" getting an ax through it's hideous head. Makes me feel vindicated.
   
2. Adrenaline Rush
   Well-played horror movies will make you squirm in your seat, will make you cover your eyes, will make you scream aloud to stop the person about to cross Jason's path. Meanwhile, our adrenaline is pumping, sending a rush of excitement through our veins akin to riding a roller coaster or bungee jumping, but we're comfortably—and safely—sitting in our own sofa with the ability to turn off the TV, if we get too scared. But, really, doesn't it feel good to get that scared?
3. Fight and Flight
   I remember reading that we don't encounter too many "fight or flight" situations like our ancient ancestors. These movies tap into these primitive feelings, tap into our ancient fear of the dark and everything that dwells there, which is actually healthy.
   
4. Philosophy
   I was talking to a friend who was lamenting that we don't have any modern-day philosophers. But I countered that we did, they are writers. Movies can reflect the ideologies of the time, what that generation fears. Look at each generation's horror movies and I bet it would say a lot about that era.
   
5. Strong Women
   What do Halloween, Friday the 13th, Alien, Hellraiser, Nightmare on Elm Street, and countless others have in common? Women kick ass! Sure you have some requisite boob shots. But it is the female protagonist who uses her intelligence, instead of her sexuality, to win over evil. I would contend that the horror genre was the first genre to feature a strong female protagonist, who kills the baddie no matter how huge, magical or maniacal it is.