From SlashFilm · Witney Seibold · · 2m
5 Forgotten Monster Movies That Still Hold Up Today
Five forgotten monster films from the 1950s-2010s remain chillingly relevant today.
In brief
Five forgotten monster films from the 1950s-2010s remain chillingly relevant today. Five lesser-known monster movies from 1959-2010 still hold up in modern times. Originally reported by SlashFilm.
Why monsters fascinate us
Clive Barker says monsters are repulsive and fascinating, yet both truths.
“I've always loved monsters. I think there's a corner in all of us that envies their powers, that would love to live forever, or to fly, or to change shape at will.”
The Tingler (1959)
William Castle's 1959 film features Vincent Price as a pathologist who discovers humans manifest centipede-like parasites during extreme fear.
“When you scream, however, your fear is released and the parasite shrivels.”
The Tingler's theater gimmick
The film used Percepto! theater seats that vibrate during key moments to enhance the communal horror experience.
“Scream! Scream for your lives!”
Razorback (1984)
Russell Mulcahy's 1984 Australian film follows a man named Jake who battles a wild boar that attacks his family and community.
“The boar is a big, scary, seemingly supernatural monster, and it's gross and terrifying.”
Nightbreed (1990)
Clive Barker's 1990 film features Boone, a man who dreams of a monster city called Midian, where he becomes one of the Nightbreed.
“He eventually finds Midian in real life, and learns that he is one of the Nightbreed, the monstrous denizens of the city.”
The Relic (1997)
Peter Hyams' 1997 film follows a Chicago museum exhibit where a mythical forest creature attacks visitors.
“It seems that someone, or something, is puncturing human skulls and ripping out hypothalamus glands.”
Trollhunter (2010)
André Øvredal's 2010 Norwegian film follows trollhunters tracking down a man who is a troll hunter in the countryside.
“Trolls, Hans reveals, are very real, and the Norwegian government has hired freelance hunters to keep them at bay.”
Why these films endure
Each film's unique monster design and thematic depth ensure they remain relevant despite their age.
“The Tingler is a prime example of the communal nature of horror; you need to see it in a theater with other rowdy people to get the full effect.”
The Relic's monster design
Stan Winston designed a giant lion-like creature with radial claws and facial pincers resembling a stag beetle.
“It's a pretty badass monster.”
Trollhunter's cultural impact
The film gained attention in arthouse circles and is now widely available for online rental.
“Word spread, it took root, and now it's widely available to curious seekers.”
Why monsters matter
Monsters reflect our fears and desires, offering a safe space to explore the repulsive and fascinating aspects of humanity.
“Monsters are regular stars of all human stories, stretching back to the earliest days of our species.”
The Tingler's legacy
The film's theater gimmick and communal horror elements remain influential in modern cinema.
“The Tingler is a prime example of the communal nature of horror; you need to see it in a theater with other rowdy people to get the full effect.”
Why these films still hold up
Each film's unique monster design and thematic depth ensure they remain relevant despite their age.
“The Tingler is a prime example of the communal nature of horror; you need to see it in a theater with other rowdy people to get the full effect.”
What happens next
These forgotten monster films continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and horror enthusiasts.
“Word spread, it took root, and now it's widely available to curious seekers.”
What to remember
Five lesser-known monster movies from 1959-2010 still hold up in modern times.
