Troll (1986)

I put this movie on expecting a typical, bad, critter-horror, like Rumpelstiltskin or Leprechaun. Instead, I found myself drawn into a high fantasy/faerie world with a great story. There were many memorable scenes - two of which now fall under my 'all-time favorite scenes' list, including a musical number activated by Phil Fondacoro's "elf" character's recitation of the poem The Faerie Queene - complete with a troll choir and a magical singing mushroom (the most adorable character in the film). And the troll characters were more than just evil, mindless antagonists. I loved the touches of depth and history.

The faerie world scenes looked wonderful considering the low budget, and the real world scenes take place in an apartment complex with a must-see cast. Sonny Bono, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Michael Moriarty, are a few of the eccentric apartment dwellers that top off the film's kooky, 80s brilliance. Furthermore, unlike many child actors who tend to annoy me in these types of starring roles, I was sold by Jenny Beck's performance.

I thoroughly enjoyed this film from start to finish; there is no doubt that some real heart and creativity were poured into it. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same about Troll 2.

Bloody Birthday (1981)

Three kids are born on the same night during a solar eclipse resulting in personalities that are void of emotion and conscience. Come their tenth birthday they combine forces creating a fun-filled slasher flick. For a low-budget in 1981 this was pleasantly well done.

The casting was great, most importantly, the child actors - genuine creeps.  All of the characters were interesting. The film manages to maintain a chilling and goof-ball tone at the same time. I loved the neighborhood where this was filmed; lots of really stylish shots. Some great 80's corniness and a little 70's exploitation, including a classic nude dancing-in-my-room scene by Julie Brown (MTV's Just Say Julie).  The plot was cohesive, not overly explained and the music was decent. Worth the viewing, especially for horror fans.

The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989)

If you can "stomach" the content of this film by Peter Greenaway it is absolutely brilliant. Though filled with vile, grotesque scenes (cannibalism, torture, rot), they are filmed very beautifully. The costumes are remarkable and even color-changing as the actors walk from one room to another - color is a huge, driving element.

The majority of the film takes place in the restaurant. Michael Gambon's (the second Dumbledore) raging, maniacal role alone is enough to entertain as he subjugates and humiliates anyone who steps foot into his restaurant, especially his wife who falls for a quiet, book-reading man who dines there regularly. Helen Mirren, as the tragic wife, plays a very dangerous victim quite admirably. And one cannot see this film without remembering the white-haired, soprano boy singing angelically throughout his brutal servitude. Every character has a symbolic role as the film is a message in which (gorgeously disgusting) art plays a large part in delivering. One of my favorite dark comedies.