From Beyond (1986)

One of my favorite 80s horror films though definitely one of those more hilarious than spooky ones. It is based off a H.P. Lovecraft story and it perplexes me just how under-rated this film is especially when it comes to sci-fi/horror fans. Two scientists create an invention that gives people the ability to perceive a horrifying universe that is "from beyond".

The special effects are fantastic and the whole film is outrageously entertaining and demanding of attention. It is the perfect blend of slime, gore, perversion, comedy, and 80s cheese.

The Bird with the Crystal Plumage (1970)

Very strong debut film by Dario Argento. His vision and sense of style is so clear with this film, establishing  trademarks that can be found in all its successors. This is one of my all-time favorite murder/mystery/serial killer film as well as my favorite Argento film (although I haven't seen all of them yet) even surpassing Suspiria, his most well-known film.

From beginning to end he really captures the audience using impressive mood-control. Every scene is like an abstract piece of art, captivating from every angle. It is quite an attractive film. I love the soundtrack…very spookily avant-garde. The acting is a little unusual but not in a believable/unbelievable way; just more of a stylistic feature. The plot is much more complete than some of his others that receive complaint of being too holey and the ending delivers a well done twist.

Tideland (2005)

Tideland is one of my favorite films by one of my favorite film makers. It also seems to be one of Mr. Gilliam's least recognized films possibly due to its creepy undertow/borderline taboo moments. It is about the traumatic life of a young girl seen from her point of view.

Despite how dark and tragic the plot is, he portrays it with such color, innocence, and imagination; very Alice in Wonderland-esque. Everything about this movie, from the music to the camera techniques to the props, is so so so pretty. The acting is outstanding, the actors perfectly casted...this movie is a real treasure.

Sleeping Beauty (2011)

Sleeping Beauty is a powerfully controversial film that left me feeling unsettled for days (that is a good thing). It very hauntingly portrays the self-destructive lifestyle of a stunningly beautiful, ice-cold character played perfectly by Emily Browning.

The film's slow pace is necessary as it focuses less on narrative and more on raw emotion and gorgeous cinematography. There are scenes in the movie that are intriguingly uncomfortable; the fact that they are both alluring and off-putting at the same time is, in my opinion, fantastic. A beautiful, realistic film.