Ep 9. Ghosts

In 100 Years of Horror season 1 episode 9, titled "Ghosts," viewers are taken on a haunting journey through the history of ghost stories in cinema. From the early days of silent films to modern-day blockbusters, ghosts have fascinated audiences and frightened them in equal measure.

The episode begins by examining the roots of ghost stories in literature, tracing their evolution through works like Shakespeare's Hamlet and Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. It then moves on to explore how these stories were brought to life on the silver screen, with classic films like The Phantom of the Opera and The Hunchback of Notre Dame setting the stage for the ghostly genre.

One of the episode's key themes is the versatility of ghosts in storytelling. Ghosts can be malevolent, seeking revenge or causing harm to the living, or they can be benevolent, seeking to comfort or guide the living. The episode highlights films that play with these expectations, such as The Uninvited, which features ghostly beings that are both haunting and sympathetic.

The episode also touches on the cultural significance of ghost stories, particularly in Asian horror cinema. Films such as Japan's Ringu and Korea's A Tale of Two Sisters have had a significant impact on the genre, introducing new themes and storytelling techniques that have been adapted by filmmakers around the world.

One of the episode's standout moments comes when it explores the use of special effects in ghost movies. From the ghostly apparitions of The Haunting to the phantasmagoric visions of Poltergeist, filmmakers have always sought to frighten audiences with innovative visual effects. The episode looks at how these effects were achieved through the years, from the use of practical effects to the digital wizardry of modern films.

Throughout the episode, a diverse range of experts and filmmakers offer their insights on the ghostly genre. Actors such as Tony Todd (Candyman) and Lin Shaye (Insidious) share their experiences of playing ghostly characters, while horror aficionados like Joe Dante (Gremlins) and Mick Garris (The Stand) provide their analysis and commentary.

What makes "Ghosts" such an engaging episode is the way it balances historical context with contemporary analysis. Whether you're a horror fan or simply interested in the evolution of filmmaking, this episode offers a fascinating look at the ghostly genre and its enduring appeal.