If you’re left hanging this Halloween, don’t be afraid to try one of these petrifying pastimes . . .
1. Terrifying tales. If you’re staying in on the 31st, get scared with The Virago Book of Ghost Stories. Absorbing, entertaining and deliciously unnerving, this collection by some of the greatest storytellers of the twentieth century is an irresistible read for those with a taste for being spooked. And if you need some light relief after those night-time nasties, try the nocturnal Do Bats Have Bollocks? for all the bonkers questions and answers you never needed to know. Check out our Bloodthirsty Books for more!
2. Freakish films. Feeling brave? Then try one of these monstrous movies:
The Lost Boys. Vampires galore in this classic 80s delight. Santa Carla is the murder capital of the world – where a vampire comic could save your life. Kiefer Sutherland in a flappy leather coat; the two Coreys before it all went downhill; and the immortal line ‘They’re only noodles, Michael’. Excellent
The Shining. When Stephen King meets Stanley Kubrick, it’s going to be good. This is Jack Nicholson at his finest – a chilling, disturbing portrait of isolation and insanity
Halloween. Michael Myers’ first outing is undoubtedly his most gruesome. A psychotic murderer on a mindless rampage – what more could you want?
The Wicker Man. An incredible occult thriller with a shocking ending – this is unlike anything you’ve seen before. All together now: ‘Christ, noooo!’
Suspiria. An Italian gothic horror film, famed for its dark dreamlike sequences. Beautifully photographed and scary as hell; a must-see
Rosemary’s Baby. A lesson in landmark horror from Roman Polanski, this is one of the most chilling supernatural films in cinema history. Based on the novel by Ira Levin
Hellraiser. IMDB tells you all you need to know: ‘An unfaithful wife encounters the zombie of her dead lover, who’s being chased by demons after he escaped from their sadomasochistic Hell.’ Enjoy!
The Silence of the Lambs. Arguably one of the greatest villains of all time, Hannibal Lecter takes centre stage in this disturbing and memorable portrait of cannibalism, abduction and sexuality
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Hush. (Season 4, episode 10). One of the scariest TV episodes ever to grace our screens. Beware The Gentlemen . . .
3. All Hallows Heartbreakers. Halloween night is the most popular time for using a mirror to discover what your future holds. Looking for romance? Just look behind you . . . if you dare.
Apple Slices. At midnight sit down in front of a mirror and cut an apple into nine slices. Eat each slice from the tip of the knife. Before you eat the ninth slice, the image of your future lover will appear in the mirror and ask you for the final piece of apple. (It’s all give and no take with these things, isn’t it?)
Hair Combing. Stand before a mirror in a candlelit room and comb your hair. You will soon see the image of your lover-to-be standing behind you. (Nothing like a surprise or two on the first date.)
Walking Backwards. Stand outside and hold a mirror in your hand, then walk backwards while saying:
‘Round and round, O stars so fair! Ye travel and search out everywhere. I pray you, sweet stars, now show to me This night who my future husband/wife shall be!’ The image of your future spouse will appear in the mirror. (At this point, stop walking backwards.) Cellar Stairs. Hold a mirror in front of you while walking down the dark cellar stairs backwards. You will see your intended’s reflection in the mirror. (And if it’s true love, they’ll catch you.)
4. A Trip to the Theatre. If you want to get scared in the stalls, we recommend The Woman in Black at London’s Fortune Theatre. Based on the novel by Susan Hill, the whole production is very dimly lit, allowing eerie noises and startling sounds to come from all sides of the theatre – even from behind you . . . For those of you who have already seen it, you’ll know what we mean by these four words: The Rocking Chair Bit.
5. ‘Orrible outings. For ghostly tours, Ripper walks and spooky mansions, check out London from The Other Side . . .:
Secret London Walks
Charlton House Halloween Ball
Posted 15/10/2008 12:29:05 by The Between the Sheets team with 0 comments.