Golden Age of Horror: The Late 1970s/Early 1980s vs. Late 1990s/Early 2000s

The debate is ages-old: which era produced the best horror movies? The so-called glory days of the late 70s/early 80s or the modern era of the late 90s/early 2000s? Let's dive into the most notable films and see which decade reigns supreme.

70's-80's: The Golden Age of Horror

The decade from 1973 to 1986 has been hailed as the golden age of horror. This period saw some of the most iconic and culturally significant horror films, many of which are still treasured by horror enthusiasts today. From classics like The Exorcist to cult favorites like Evil Dead 2 and Aliens, the rich tapestry of horror during this era is unmatched.

Notable Horror Films (1973-1986)

90's Horror: A Decade of Diversity and Controversy

While the 70's and 80's are widely considered the pinnacle of the horror genre, the 90's also saw a significant shift in the landscape of horror films. This era brought a mix of survivor horror, supernatural thrillers, and science fiction. The films of the 1990s often leaned towards a darker, more explicit tone, which some argue compromised the storytelling aspect of the genre.

Notable Horror Films (1997-2003)

A Personal Perspective on Horror Films

Not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for horror films. Those who avoid them might find the genre's gruesome themes deeply unsettling. Personally, I find horror films difficult to watch, often experiencing panic attacks and emotional distress. This is not to say that horror films lack value; they certainly do. However, from a personal perspective, the 70s and 80s have a certain charm that the 90s and 2000s films seem to lack.

That said, newspaper critics likeRoger Ebert and Gene Siskel, who reviewed films extensively during their heyday, did many favorable reviews for the 70s and 80s horror films. While they appreciated the violence in the 90s films, they often remarked on the genre's more simplistic narrative focus at that time. This suggests a shift in the quality and storytelling of horror films during the late 90s and early 2000s.

The Argument for the Golden Age of Horror

One of the main reasons for the 70s and 80s being seen as the golden age is the sheer number of memorable and influential films produced during that period. Many of these films are still referenced and imitated in contemporary horror, showing that their impact has endured over the decades.

For example, The Exorcist (1973) helped launch a new wave of horror films, while Jaws (1975) popularized the thriller subgenre. The Shining (1980) and Alien (1979) both redefined what could be achieved in terms of atmosphere and plot complexity.

Conclusion

While both the late 70s/early 80s and the late 90s/early 2000s periods produced notable horror films, the 70s and 80s stand out as the golden age due to the richness of their storytelling and the sheer number of cultural treasures they produced. These films not only scared but also entertained and influenced a generation, setting a standard that has yet to be fully matched.

So, whether you're a fan of the classics or enjoy the modern twists, there's a place for you in the world of horror. The question of which era produced better horror films will undoubtedly continue to spark debate among fans and critics alike.