STELLA HALLOWEEN SEASON
With only days left until the spookiest time of the year, The Stella Cinema in Rathmines’ Halloween Season is in full swing, screening an abundance of Halloween cult classics.
The luxurious one-screen cinema ranks 14th in the world among the most beautiful cinemas after an 18-month restoration in 2015 brought its 1920s-style interior back to life. Apart from the first-floor balcony, mosaic tiling, and granite pilasters, the cinema’s original ballroom also boasts a lavish cocktail bar — a perfect date spot away from autumn’s moody weather. From iconic horrors and bloody thrillers to spooky comedies, there’s something for everyone. Here are our recommendations for Stella’s Halloween Season.
Scream (1996)
No Halloween would be complete without one of the most famous slashers of all time — Wes Craven’s Scream. Credited with revitalizing the slasher genre, the film follows teenager Sidney Prescott as she becomes the target of a masked killer known as Ghostface. As bodies pile up, Sidney and her friends navigate fear, suspicion, and dark secrets while horror movie tropes are cleverly deconstructed. The film seamlessly combines suspense, humor, and self-awareness as its characters reference real horror films to survive their own. Scream was nominated for Best Movie at the 1997 MTV Movie Awards and won Best Horror Film at the Saturn Awards (Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films).
The Exorcist: Director’s Cut (1973)
The Exorcist: Director’s Cut, also known as The Exorcist: The Version You’ve Never Seen, is an extended version of William Friedkin’s 1973 horror masterpiece. It tells the terrifying story of a young girl’s possession by a demonic force and the desperate attempts to save her. All things supernatural unfold in the home of famous actress Chris MacNeil as her 12-year-old daughter Regan undergoes drastic personality changes — speaking in unknown languages and exhibiting superhuman strength. Turning to Father Damien Karras and Father Lankester Merrin, MacNeil hopes that, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Regan may be brought back from her satanic psychosis. The director’s cut includes several differences from the original — most notably the infamous spider walk scene, extra dialogue between the priests, and a slightly altered ending we’re sure not to reveal.
Halloween (1978)
There’s no better film to watch this Halloween than the original 1978 Halloween from legendary horror director John Carpenter. The film follows the infamous Michael Myers as he escapes from a mental hospital, returning to the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois, fifteen years after murdering his sister on Halloween night. This film has stood the test of time and remains one of the most suspenseful ever made. With a budget of $300,000 over a 20-day shoot, it became one of the most successful independent movies of all time, grossing $47 million at the U.S. box office — equivalent to about $150 million today. On top of directing, John Carpenter also composed the film’s iconic soundtrack. Screening at 11:35 p.m. on October 31st, this film is sure to keep you up all night long.
With a wide range of viewing options — including armchairs, couches, and even beds — Halloween Season at The Stella is a must this October. Be sure to book in advance, as these tickets are sure to fly.
Click here to check out all the spooky films playing this Halloween at The Stella.
Written by Jack Murray - @Jack.mrry
Copy Editor - Niall Carey -@niall.030
