Introduction

This is an idea I first saw on Rupert Pupkin Speaks wherein he lists his favorite “new-to-me” titles of the prior year. During the pandemic years my viewings were down in general, my posting even more so. I created a list for 2023 and had choices ready to go last year, but neglected to post them. Here you go.

2024

Viy (1967)

Viy is a story that has seen a number of adaptations and interpretations. This is a taut, tense and atmospheric gothic horror tale.

I watched this on Criterion Channel.

Limite (1931)

This was a film I first learned of when Martin Scorcese included it in his World Cinema Project. It’s a landmark of early Brazilian cinema that I might never have heard about if not his recognition of it and dedication to film preservation.

I watched this on Criterion Channel.

Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker (1981)

This is a film that had flown under my radar for years and then I saw it available to stream on Shudder and gave it a watch despite knowing little to nothing about it. Little did I know I’d stumbled upon not only a compelling slasher but one rather ahead of its time and that also hasn’t aged that poorly.

The Signalman (1976)

In November/December Shudder put a number of BBC Christmas ghost stories on their slate. This was the best amongst these I saw, while many of these films aregreat slow burns, but the eerieness and isolation in this story puts it above the rest.

El Televisor (1974)

This was a film I saw as part of the great Historias Para no Dormir set from Severin Films. This was a series in Spain that included short horror features. They were typically written and directed Narciso Ibáñez Serrador. This particular film takes on new technology (color TV) wreaking havoc on a man’s life. A concept that could be too campy if poorly handled, is riveting and insightful character study with a brilliant performance by Narciso Ibánez Menta.

Moon Child (1989)

Lastly, is another Spanish film this one by iconoclastic auteur Augustí Villaronga. This film with dreamlike/nightmarish images dealing with pseudoscientific cult is another stand out. I watched this film on Mubi.