Halloween is coming up fast, and there’s nothing like a monster movie to get into the spooky spirit! To finish up the month we will watch Bong Joon-ho’s The Host, one of the most interesting creature-features of this century from one of its greatest directors.

This South Korean blockbuster became the country’s highest-grossing film of all time when it was first released. It has been critically praised ever since for its blend of genres and tones, high energy pace, compelling character dynamics, and unique creature design (we’ll see how those VFX hold up 15 years later).

The Host was Bong’s third feature and includes the themes that would become the director’s calling card – class consciousness, political satire, and the strong bonds of family. This is an adrenaline-pumping monster flick in the grandest tradition, while also revealing some fascinating depths.

October is spooky season, and what better way to start than some shiver-inducing, mind-bending psychological horror!

Kubrick’s The Shining is widely considered a masterpiece of the horror and thriller genres, visually stunning with iconic (and somewhat controversial) performances from Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall. Loosely based on Stephen King’s novel, the film follow the Torrance family as they take care of the historic and imposing Overlook Hotel, a luxury inn with a terrifying past.

This movie is a masterclass in atmosphere, with a chilling soundtrack and a story that creeps forward with psychological twists and increasingly bizarre imagery. Over the years, dozens of fan and critical theories have emerged about hidden symbolism, underlying themes, and untold backstories, giving The Shining a prominent place in American cinematic culture.