Snobbin: Beautiful Trash in the Pop Culture Gutter

David Bruckner's  The Ritual builds suspense through the familiar narrative trope of difficult friendships and decisions but takes its protagonist to unexpected places that rework many folk horror tropes, such as the outsider coming to unfamiliar areas and finding horrific occult practices and villagers that are compelled to commit them. The premise which could be a feel good buddy comedy turns horrific quickly, and the legacy of the characters comes into question. Add in a really interesting folk horror monster with antlers, hoofs, and human-like body parts, and you have all the ingredients for an interesting genre excursion. 

  The updated Rube Goldberg devices in this loose remake of William Castle's 1960 haunted house flick along with the exaggeratedly designed ghosts make this one fun to watch if predictable. Tony Shalhoub, Shannon Elizabeth, and Matthew Lillard each give their all in a film that needs more scares. 

 Bees barely buzzes. Even John Saxon cannot save this snoozefest. 

One of the best voodoo films due to strong performances, atmosphere, and special effects. Wes Craven tells a complex political story in a way that never feels dull and generally surprises. The film generally authentically covers Haitian voodoo honestly without attempting cheap scares. Dr. Dennis Allen (Bill Pullman) and Dr. Marielle Duchamp (Cathy Tyson) also somehow maintain realistic chemistry while combatting the evil Dargent Peytraud (Zakes Mokae) in a thriller that actually thrills.

George Romero like you've seldom seen him. This arty vampire film manages to bring the New Hollywood to the Arthouse vampire. Most of the film meanders, despite having interesting characters and dialogue, but the conclusion still surprises and makes Martin must viewing. 

Daniel Radcliffe's believable performance elevates this update on the Hammer Gothic horror film. What it lacks in gore, it makes up in character development. While not as over the top as classic Hammer flicks, The Woman in Black still finds ways to surprise.

This anthology film delivers a few cool twists on typical horror tropes and leaves you wanting more from each vignette. I asked myself what else this world had in store for its protagonists. The sense of the unknown is palpable in ways that few horror movies have conveyed after 2000. 

Angela Bettis's offbeat and vulnerable performance as the titular character trying to understand the world around her makes this one a worthwhile watch. Her childhood trauma and fragile mental state lead to an unsettling conclusion. 

A stylish, erotic vampire thriller that makes up for its lack of plot with good music and interesting performances by Susan Sarandon and David Bowie. Bauhaus's performance was a welcome addition. 

A horror comedy that does not take itself too seriously as it lampoons high school social groups and mainstream emo bands to comment on the absurdity of modern life.