Funny and Campy Horror

by Anthony J. Rapino
(PA)

A list of funny and campy horror movies in no particular order. This isn't meant to be a "best of" list, rather, just a good starting off point for those interested in this type of horror. I also cheat a little and make some unofficial recommendations of more movies that are not on the list.


1. Dead Alive (1992):

My introduction into funny/campy horror. I saw this film for the first time when I was in high school, and admittedly, didn't pay very close attention for... ahem... extenuating circumstances.

What *did* stick with me was the outstanding finale (of which the cover refers to: "The goriest fright film of all time.")

Of note is also that it was directed by Peter Jackson. Another noteworthy movie of his that *almost* made this list is The Frighteners.

2. Re-Animator (1985):

A classic that appears on many "best of" horror lists, and for good reason. It's also mentioned in American Beauty, which is actually how I first heard of it.

3. The Return of the Living Dead (1985):

I avoided this movie for a long time, being something of a Romero-zombie purist. Then I removed my head from my a** and gave it a view.

4.The Evil Dead (1981):

And then the world was introduced to Bruce Campbell. This low budget movie, with gonzo moments that must have been inspired by The Three Stooges, became a cult classic. Who am I to argue?

5. Bubba Ho-Tep (2003):

This spot originally held Evil Dead 2, but since we already have the original Evil Dead in here, I bumped the sequel for this other Bruce Campbell favorite. This one is maybe a little more comedy than it is horror, but still a good movie.

6. Dead and Breakfast (2004):

In my opinion, there are two things that save this movie. One is the addition of David Carradine. The second is the crazy rap/country music sprinkled throughout the film ala There's Something About Mary. I still listen to "We're Coming to Kill You" for a good laugh.

7. Cemetery Man (1996):

Of all the films, this is the hardest to get into. It has the least amount of comedy. You have to do a bit more thinking with this film, but you'll be glad you did.

8. Grindhouse: Planet Terror (2007):

Robert Rodriguez knew what type of movie he was making, and he didn't skimp on the good stuff.

9.The Toxic Avenger (1985):

You can't have a campy horror list without at least one Troma film. And if I have to choose just one, why not the classic that put them on the map. If you like this one, check out the sequels, other Troma films, and movies like Attack of the Killer Tomatoes.

10. The Machine Girl (2008):

What can I say. Noboru Iguchi delivers on the title. Gorehounds should find plenty in this one to like. If you like this one, you should also check out Tokyo Gore Police.