WHAT’S NEW ON SHUDDER: JAN 2017

Shudder’s $4.99/month streaming service has proven itself to be a gift from the genre gods. Whether you crave obscure indie horror from up-and-comers or classic works from decades past, the AMC-backed service has got you covered. Shudder has released its list of horror films to stream in January of 2017, and it looks like there’s plenty of fear-inducing fodder with which to kick off the new year. As a bonus, check out 52 Weeks of Horror’s quick list of recommendations:

Fright Night (1985) - It’s been said that you can’t call yourself a horror fan until you’ve seen this 80s-tastic cult classic. William Ragsdale stars as young Charley Brewster, who suspects that his neighbor (played by an immensely sexy Chris Sarandon) is a vampire. Boasting a stellar soundtrack and impressive practical effects, Fright Night is a must-see for newbies, and worth another look for horror veterans.

Homebodies (1974) - Of all the new flicks being offered this month, we’re most excited that this hard-to-find gem is coming to Shudder. From the IMDB summary: “When a quiet group of pensioners learn that their homes are to be torn down to make way for a block of flats, they decide to take action. What starts as an attempt to discourage the developers soon escalates into wholesale murder of both the developers and the construction workers.” This film is a criminally underappreciated piece of social commentary with inventive death scenes (two words: cement bath) and an outstanding cast of characters.

Dearest Sister (2016) - This surprise hit from Laos follows a poor village girl who travels to the capital to care for her rich, recently blinded cousin. As the dread-filled story unfolds, the girl learns that her sister has gained a sinister ability in the process. The film quickly became the darling of 2016’s film festivals, including Fantastic Fest and the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival.

The Prowler (1981) - In this classic from the golden age of slasher films, a killer clad in WWII Army fatigues preys upon college students on the anniversary of a double-murder. Featuring the reliving of a town tragedy and a dressed-up killer committed to offing people in creative ways, this movie would make a great double feature with My Bloody Valentine (1981). Bonus: Tom Savini did the FX work for the film’s greatest (and bloodiest) scenes.

Sadako vs. Kayako (2016)- Fans of J-horror, specifically The Ring and The Grudge franchises, will have a good time watching this showdown between two iconic baddies. Shudder also has a Japanese horror collection that adds a few new titles this month.

*** New Titles ***

January 4

Cooties (2014)

Creep (2004)

Death Weekend (1976)

Deep in the Woods (2000)

Fright Night (1985)

Homebodies (1974)

Infection (2004)

Malefique (2002)

Premonition (2004)

Retribution (2006)