13 Days of Halloween: Horror Movie Review: The Terror of Hallow’s Eve (2017)

An entertaining Halloween horror, The Terror of Hallow’s Eve might feel familiar but it’s got a few of its own tricks that make it stand out, even if it’s not always for positive reasons.

Directed by Todd Tucker, Terror of Hallow’s Eve pays tribute to old-school Halloween horror in a charming and memorable way. Tim (Caleb Thomas) is a social outcast, awkward and nerdy. He likes to play bloody pranks on people but that just makes him even less popular. Much to his mother’s (Sarah Lancaster) frustration and disappointment.

She loves her son and worries about him, especially as he is more interested in horror movies, comics and drawing his own monsters. It’s this interest and being beaten up by some bullies that see Tim cause some Halloween carnage by summoning up The Trickster (Doug Jones). This being will help Tim get his revenge on those who have wronged him but at what price?

From the very start, you will know you’re in for a good time as Tim’s first prank is gory and grisly. This opening, combined with the location and atmosphere, makes this film feel authentically Halloween. If you’re finding your mind constantly referencing the iconic 1978 slasher of the holiday name, it’s for good reason. This film has similar vibes but also throws in a few references, has a few actors and even uses some John Carpenter music. Yet it never feels like ripping off, just a nice tribute.

Once The Trickster enters the fray, Terror of Hallow’s Eve becomes its own thing and for Tim, the decision to invoke the being is one he will regret. This is also where the movie gets really good as elaborate death sequences and great effects combine to keep the excitement at a high level. You may not care much about the characters but you will be entertained by what happens to them.

It’s a fun horror movie with a delightfully dark ending. Nothing game-changing but memorable enough to become a regular for many in their Halloween movie watch schedule.