What’s your favourite scary movie? Not sure? Fear not, Carlisle Cult Cinema Club is here to help!
We’ve invited club owner Paul Donaldson to share with us his top scary movie picks for this year just in time for Halloween.
Paul has been running the club – which is dedicated to bringing cinematic trash and treasures to Carlisle – since 2017.
During that time he has screened over 100 films from all kinds of genres on a 200-inch screen for people to come and watch at The Source Collective in Denton Holme.
He is very well-versed in film and also runs the Carlisle Cult Cinema Cast podcast where he interviews cult cinema stars and unpacks film news and debates with fellow enthusiasts.
Paul has interviewed a range of talented people including talk show host Jonathan Ross, Neil Marshall, known for Dog Soldiers and The Descent, Dominic Brunt and Madeline Smith, actress from Carry On, Hammer Horror, and James Bond and many more.
He also runs a radio show and earlier this year, he won a Rondo Award as part of the We Belong Dead magazine team, and has made a name for himself with his podcast in the British cult movie scene.
We’ll be working more with Paul over the coming months to bring you more Cumbria film content – so stay tuned!
Paul’s top Halloween film picks for 2025:
Hello again! It’s been awhile but I’m back to share 10 films chosen for you to watch this Halloween by the Carlisle Cult Cinema Club.
It’s an eclectic line-up of films that blend horror, humour, and a touch of nostalgia.
Each film offers its own unique flavour of fright, making them perfect picks for a Halloween movie night that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat!
Most of these films are not suitable for children under the age of 15.
To help you make a decision, we’ve featured each film’s age rating. Parents and guardians can also check the full parents guide for a breakdown of the contents of each film on IMDB.
10. Underwater (2020) (15)
I’ve just watched the 2020 action horror film Underwater and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised!
I’m watching it and a few other Action Horror films for an upcoming podcast and couldn’t help but notice the similarities to the Alien franchise, as well as other films like Leviathan and DeepStar Six.
The film centres around a group of oceanic researchers who find themselves in a desperate situation after a mysterious earthquake hits their deep sea drilling facility located at the bottom of the Mariana Trench.
As the survivors try to make their way to safety, they soon realize that they are not alone – strange creatures lurk in the water, taking out the crew one by one.
The creatures have a very Lovecraftian look to them, and there are some really good jump scares throughout the film.
The claustrophobic feel really adds to the tension, making it a real nail-biter. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to watch it, but I really enjoyed it.
It’s a nice, tight 90-minute film, reminiscent of the creature features of old. The cast, including Kirsten Stewart, Vincent Cassel, and T.J. Miller, all deliver great performances and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Underwater is a very decent watch and if you’ve not seen it yet, I highly recommend doing so. It’s a great addition to the horror genre and definitely deserves more recognition.
It’s available on Disney plus if you fancy a watch.
9. Satan’s Little Helper (2005) (15)
Next up we have a hidden gem from 2004 called Satan’s Little Helper.
Directed by the talented Jeff Lieberman, the mastermind behind classics like Squirm and Just Before Dawn, this darkly twisted comic tale takes you on a wild ride that will leave you both disturbed and entertained.
The story revolves around a young lad named Dougie, who becomes obsessed with Satan after playing a computer game.
He believes he’s meant to be Satan’s little helper. When his sister brings her new boyfriend, Alex, home from college, Dougie’s world is turned upside down.
He runs off in a fit of jealousy and stumbles upon someone he believes to be the Devil himself. As Dougie witnesses this supposed Satan committing gruesome murders, he boldly approaches him, seeking to assist in any way possible.
And so the dark and chaotic adventure begins, with the duo wreaking havoc across the unsuspecting suburbs of Bell Island.
Now, let’s talk about the release of this cracking little film. It’s finally getting the recognition it deserves from the New Boutique Label, TREASURED FILMS.
This is their second release, and once again, they’ve knocked it out of the park. The disc is jam-packed with extras, and if you buy it directly from their webstore, you even get some exclusive goodies thrown in.
Trust me, it’s an absolute bargain for what you’re getting.
Satan’s Little Helper is a twisted and darkly humorous ride that will leave you both disturbed and thoroughly entertained.
With Jeff Lieberman’s skilful direction and Amanda Plummer’s Cracking performance as Dougie’s Mam Merill, this film is a must-watch for fans of Quirky and offbeat cinema.
So, grab a copy of this fantastic release from TREASURED FILMS and buckle up for a devilishly good time.
8. Get Duked (2019) (15)
I recently watched the 2019 film Get Duked and I have to say, I really enjoyed it.
The movie follows three teenage troublemakers and an overachiever on a Duke of Edinburgh Award trek through the Scottish highlands.
The group is dropped in the middle of nowhere with nothing but a map and they must work together to reach their campsite before dark. However, they soon discover they are being hunted by wealthy aristocrats who intend to use them as sport.
The film is a modern take/twist on A Most Dangerous Game, and it does a great job of building tension and suspense and plenty of laughs throughout the story.
The cast is fantastic, with standout performances from Alice Lowe, Eddie Izzard, and the always-great James Cosmo.
Overall, I highly recommend Get Duked to anyone who enjoys a good thriller with a bit of humor thrown in.
The movie is well-written, well-acted, and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a cracking little watch.
7. Deep Rising (1998) (15)
Full scream ahead!
Deep Rising, written and directed by Stephen Sommers, is an entertaining and action packed journey into the depths of the ocean.
Starring Treat Williams and Femeke Janssen in the lead roles, both actors deliver brilliant performances from start to finish.
From the moment the ruthless hijackers invade the world’s most luxurious cruise ship to the mysterious disappearance of the passengers, this keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat.
As the film progresses, a terrifying force from the unexplored depths of the ocean begins to prey on the intruders, snatching them away one by one, building tension and suspense.
One of the aspects of the film I liked is Kevin J. O’Connor’s portrayal of the comedy relief character, Joey.
O’Connor brings a refreshing and humorous energy to the story, adding a touch of levity to the action that’s going on around him.
It’s worth noting that O’Connor has appeared in several of the director’s other works, consistently delivering memorable performances in similar roles.
While Deep Rising boasts a mixture of practical effects and early CGI, it must be acknowledged that some of the CGI may not have aged as well as expected.
However, this minor setback doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the film. Deep Rising remains a great example of a fun, old-school creature feature that is packed with action.
The supporting cast in this is Cracking, with actors such as Jason Flemyng, Cliff Curtis, and Djimon Hounsou portraying villains and Creature Fodder, enhancing the thrill factor and keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as they get picked off one by one.
It’s a highly enjoyable and action-packed adventure that harkens back to the days of classic creature features.
With its fast-paced storyline and thrilling action set pieces, the film never fails to entertain.
Despite some minor flaws, the performances, particularly by Treat Williams and Femeke Janssen, elevate the movie and make it a must-watch especially as the nights start to get Darker.
6. Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires (2022) (15)
I recently had the pleasure of rewatching Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires, and I must say, it has quickly become one of my favourite films of last few years.
This action-horror comedy is an absolute must-watch for fans of the 80s style, packed with one-liners and references that will have you laughing out loud.
From the moment the film opens with a hilarious and bizarre encounter between a drunk man, a monstrous homeless person, and a speeding police car, you know you’re in for a one hell of a ride.
The story follows Chuck Steel, a renegade cop with a troubled past, as he teams up with an unlikely partner, battles supernatural creatures called Trampires, and uncovers a diabolical plan involving the city Governor.
The animation in this is truly outstanding. Director Mike Mort and his team have created a visually stunning film that immerses you in its unique world.
The attention to detail and the seamless blend of action, horror, and comedy make you forget that you’re watching an animated film.
It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team. The film is filled with witty one-liners and clever references to classic 80s movies like Weird Science and Cobra.
These nods to the past add an extra layer of enjoyment for those who appreciate the nostalgia of that era. The dialogue is sharp, and the comedic timing is spot-on, thanks to the talented voice cast, including Jennifer Saunders and Paul Whitehouse.
It’s a perfect film for a beer and pizza night with your mates. It’s a hilarious and action-packed ride that will keep you entertained from start to finish.
The combination of humour, horror, and 80s-style nostalgia makes it a truly unique experience.
I have personally watched this film at least 15 times already, and each time, it continues to delight and surprise me.
The story is engaging, the characters are memorable, and the action sequences are thrilling. It’s a true gem that deserves recognition.
If you’re a fan of action and horror with a comedic twist, Chuck Steel: Night of the Trampires is a film you don’t want to miss.
The fantastic animation, clever references, and hilarious one-liners make it a standout. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
5. The Living Dead at the Manchester Morgue – Let Sleeping Corpses Lie (1974) (18)
The Living Dead at the Manchester Morgue, also known as Let Sleeping Corpses Lie and Don’t Open the Window, is a 1974 film directed by Jorge Grau.
Starring Ray Lovelock, Christina Galbo, and Arthur Kennedy, this ecological horror film takes us on a chilling trip as the dead are reanimated by a radiation-emitting device designed to target insects nervous systems.
I always liked the clever explanation of how the dead are brought back to life. The use of the radiation-emitting device provides a nice take on zombies.
Parts of the film were shot in Cumbria near where I live, but I’ve never been to where it was shot, but maybe one day I’ll get out to the shooting locations.
While the film’s dubbing may raise a few chuckles, particularly with the voice given to Ray Lovelock, it does little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.
The fantastic score and impeccable sound design work in tandem to build tension and enhance the film no end. It boasts a cracking atmosphere throughout, with the gothic look inside the crypt being particularly impressive.
The attention to detail in creating a chilling and ominous setting is fantastic. Considered one of the best zombie films ever made, it stands out for its inventive approach to the zombies.
The Guthrie Zombie’s method of turning other corpses into zombies by dabbing infected blood on their eyelids is a refreshing take on the typical zombie transformation.
Drawing inspiration from Night of the Living Dead, the film shows zombies using weapons, adding a level of danger and unpredictability.
As the living find themselves in a siege-like situation, defending themselves against the relentless dead, the tension escalates, to its gory conclusion in the Hospital with its shock ending.
Fans of gore will not be disappointed, as it delivers some truly impressive gut-munching and gory effects.
These gruesome moments add a visceral and unsettling element to the film, plus the blood looks like blood, not the usual red paint that a lot of horror films seemed to use at the time.
It’s an outstanding film that deserves its place among the best zombie films ever made.
With the ecological twist, coupled with its fantastic score, atmospheric setting, and inventive approach to zombie transformation, make it a must-watch for any horror fan.
With its gut-munching gore and more this should be on everyone’s watch list for this Halloween.
4. Bone Tomahawk (2015) (18)
Bone Tomahawk, written and directed by S.Craig Zahler, is a gripping western horror that has a cracking cast, led by the always impressive Kurt Russell.
Set at the turn of the century on the border of Texas and New Mexico, the film takes viewers on a harrowing journey into a savage and unforgiving world.
One of it’s big pluses is Kurt Russell back in a western which is always a good sight to see he is excellent as the sheriff tracking down the creatures.
The visual design of the Troglodytes, the cannibalistic tribe in the film, is fantastic. Their appearance and the way they communicate with each other create an eerie and otherworldly atmosphere.
The brutality displayed by the Troglodyte Tribe reminds me of the cannibals in films like Cannibal Holocaust and Ferox.
Zahler does not shy away from showcasing the savagery of these creatures. The cast of this is excellent. Each actor delivers a fantastic performance. From Matthew Fox’s strong-willed gunslinger to Sid Haig’s memorable presence, the ensemble cast all bring their A game.
As Zahler’s directorial debut, Bone Tomahawk is a Cracker. The film showcases his ability to create a visceral and visually stunning film.
The attention to detail in the production design, cinematography all look great. While I thoroughly enjoyed Bone Tomahawk, I must admit that at times it could have benefitted from a tighter runtime.
The film occasionally feels a bit long, and the pacing could have been more tighter. Sometimes, a 90-minute runtime is enough to maintain the momentum and impact.
It’s a brutal and visually stunning western that showcases the talent of its cast and the director’s promising debut.
Kurt Russell shines in his role, while the Troglodytes and their brutal nature create a chilling presence, I thoroughly enjoyed this, even though in my opinion it could be trimmed a little, it’s still a cracking watch.
3. The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023) (15)
The Last Voyage of the Demeter takes audiences on a cracking journey inspired by Bram Stoker’s legendary novel, Dracula.
Directed by Andre Ovredal, the film boasts a talented cast including Liam Cunningham, David Dastmalchian, and Corey Hawkins, who deliver exceptional performances in their respective roles.
Drawing inspiration from the captivating chapter, The Captain’s Log, the story unfolds aboard the Russian ship Demeter.
Commissioned to transport 24 mysterious wooden crates from Carpathia to London, the crew finds themselves embroiled in a nightmarish ordeal as they are relentlessly pursued by a sinister presence aboard the vessel.
The suspense gradually escalates, gripping viewers until the ship reaches Whitby Harbour, only for it to be discovered completely deserted, with no sign of the crew.
Although the film possesses great potential for a franchise, it unfortunately did not fare well at the box office.
Nevertheless, I found the film thoroughly enjoyable, primarily due to the masterful tension as Dracula systematically picks off the crew members one by one.
However, there were a few moments of lackluster CGI, which is a common issue in modern big-budget horror films.
While practical effects were present, they were not as prominent as desired. Personally, I believe that flawed practical effects surpass subpar CGI, as they often provide a more authentic and immersive experience.
It is worth noting that the inclusion of the wolf’s head cane serves as a delightful nod to the original The Wolfman film from 1941.
Throughout the movie, eagle-eyed viewers will spot this reference, which appears to hint at a potential connection to a new Wolfman movie – a prospect that unfortunately did not come to fruition.
Nevertheless, the nod to classic horror films adds an extra layer of enjoyment for fans. To clarify, the film’s credits claim that it is based on the chapter The Captain’s Log, but this is not entirely accurate.
The film more precisely draws from chapter seven of Stoker’s novel, titled Cutting from ‘The Dailygraph,’ August 8 (pasted in Mina Murray’s journal), which contains the section Log of the Demeter.
This distinction gives us a more precise understanding of the film’s source material and its faithfulness to Stoker’s work.
Overall, the film offers a thrilling experience that pays homage to Bram Stoker’s timeless masterpiece.
Despite its underwhelming box office performance, the film has outstanding performances and a captivating narrative.
While it may leave audiences longing for a potential franchise and lamenting missed opportunities, it remains an excellent watch for fans of horror and Stoker’s iconic novel.
The highlight of the film is undoubtedly the performances of Liam Cunningham, David Dastmalchian, and Corey Hawkins.
Cunningham, known for his role in Game of Thrones, brings a commanding presence to the character of the ship’s captain.
His portrayal of a man slowly succumbing to fear and paranoia is both captivating and haunting.
Dastmalchian, who has impressed in films like Prisoners and Ant-Man, delivers another stellar performance as a crew member plagued by visions and a growing sense of dread. His ability to convey vulnerability and desperation adds depth to the character.
Hawkins, known for his roles in Straight Outta Compton and BlacKkKlansman, shines as a young sailor who becomes the audience’s entry point into the horrors unfolding on the ship.
His wide-eyed innocence gradually gives way to sheer terror, and Hawkins navigates this transformation with skill and intensity. The tension in the film is expertly crafted by Ovredal, who previously directed the critically acclaimed horror film The Autopsy of Jane Doe.
He understands the importance of building suspense and makes use of a slow-burn approach to great effect. As the crew members begin to disappear one by one, the sense of impending doom becomes palpable.
The claustrophobic setting of the ship enhances the atmosphere of dread, and Ovredal expertly makes use of the limited space to create a sense of confinement and helplessness. In terms of visual effects, this is a mixed bag.
While there are moments of impressive practical effects, such as the eerie fog that envelops the ship and the hauntingly realistic vampire makeup, there are also instances of lacklustre CGI.
These moments detract from the overall immersion and can feel jarring in comparison to the practical effects.
However, it is commendable that the filmmakers made an effort to incorporate practical effects, as they often provide a more tangible and believable on-screen experience.
2. Trick or Treat (1986) (18)
Trick or Treat, directed by Charles Martin Smith in his debut, has secured a special place in my heart over the years.
This 1986 horror flick, produced by De Laurentiis Entertainment Group, captures the essence of Halloween and heavy metal culture perfectly.
With a mix of supernatural elements, a killer soundtrack, and a plot that speaks to any metalhead, it’s a must-watch each October.
The film follows Eddie Weinbauer, a high school outcast devastated by the death of his idol, hard rock star Sammi Curr, portrayed brilliantly by Tony Fields.
After receiving a rare demo record from local DJ Nuke, played by Gene Simmons, Eddie discovers he can communicate with Sammi by playing the record backwards.
Initially, it seems like a fun way to get revenge on his bullies, but things quickly spiral out of control as Sammi’s dark intentions unfold.
The storyline cleverly intertwines Eddie’s struggles with the pressures of teenage life and the allure of rock music. Marc Price shines as Eddie, embodying the bullied teen with a passion for metal.
His character arc, from victim to someone grappling with the consequences of his choices, resonates well.
The dynamic between Eddie and Sammi grows increasingly tense as the film progresses, especially when the ghostly rock star’s true motives reveal themselves.
As Eddie attempts to escape Sammi’s influence, the stakes rise dramatically, culminating in a chaotic Halloween dance that leaves the town trembling.
One of the film’s standout aspects is its killer soundtrack, featuring the hard-hitting sounds of Fastway.
The music elevates the atmosphere, making every scene pulse with energy, perfectly complementing the horror.
Special effects crafted by Kevin Yagher, known for his work on iconic characters like Freddy Krueger, add to the film’s eerie vibe.
Ozzy Osbourne’s cameo as a televangelist provides a humorous yet pointed critique of the satanic panic surrounding heavy metal music during the era.
This adds a layer of depth to the film, poking fun at the very real controversies that artists faced at the time. The playful nods to the genre, combined with the engaging performances, make Trick or Treat a cracking watch.
For any metal enthusiast, the film is a treasure trove of references and a nostalgic trip back to the 80s.
From posters of iconic bands in Eddie’s room to the playful title of Sammi’s fictional album, Songs in the Key of Death, everything screams homage to the vibrant rock scene.
Watching Trick or Treat has become a bit of tradition for me, and I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia, the rock music, or just a good scare, this film delivers on all fronts.
It’s a perfect blend of humour, horror, and heavy metal that leaves a lasting impression, ensuring that every Halloween becomes a memorable experience.
1. Trick ‘r Treat (2007) (15)
Trick ‘r Treat, directed by Michael Dougherty, is a modern horror anthology that has firmly established itself as a must-watch during the spooky season.
Made in 2007 but Released in 2009, this film weaves together four intertwining Halloween tales set in the fictional town of Warren Valley, Ohio, featuring a brilliant cast that includes Dylan Baker, Rochelle Aytes, Anna Paquin, and Brian Cox.
What truly sets this film apart is the clever way in which all the stories connect.
At the heart of the film is Sam, an adorable yet sinister trick-or-treater in orange footie pyjamas and a burlap sack mask.
Sam embodies the spirit of Halloween, ensuring that traditions are upheld; failure to do so often leads to dire consequences.
The anthology kicks off with a chilling opening scene where Emma, who secretly loathes Halloween, meets a grim fate after extinguishing a jack-o’-lantern before midnight – setting the tone for the film and its rules around breaking Halloween traditions.
Another segment involves school principal Steven Wilkins, played brilliantly by Dylan Baker, who teaches a delinquent a harsh lesson about respecting Halloween customs.
His chilling interaction with Charlie takes a dark turn, leading to a shocking revelation. As the night unfolds, we’re also treat to the eerie lore of the Halloween School Bus Massacre, where a group of teens encounters vengeful spirits of the drowned children.
The film also introduces us to Laurie, beautifully portrayed by Anna Paquin, who finds herself in a deadly game during a night out with friends.
The twist reveals her true nature, showcasing the film’s ability to blend horror with clever storytelling. Each story builds suspense while maintaining a playful nod to Halloween traditions, making it a joy to watch.
The production captures the essence of the holiday, with elaborate decorations and an engaging atmosphere that immerses you in the Halloween spirit.
The character of Sam, drawn from the ancient festival of Samhain, serves as a reminder of the importance of honouring traditions.
The film cleverly avoids showing the kills directly on screen, allowing tension to build through suggestion rather than explicit gore, reminiscent of classics like Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
Trick ‘r Treat is not just another horror film, it’s a celebration of Halloween itself.
With its interconnected stories, memorable characters, and a hauntingly delightful ambiance, it has become an essential part of my Halloween line-up.
It’s a shame we haven’t seen a sequel because there’s so much more potential for Sam’s adventures.
The film excels in blending horror, humour, and folklore, making it a timeless classic for horror fans. This anthology truly is a gem, ensuring that Halloween remains a season of fright and fun.
