Horror films (Yes, it's that time of the year)

The Times recently did an article noting a resurgence of interest in 1970s era horror flicks. Some were really epic and have become classics, i.e. The Exorcist and Jaws. But there were a bunch of other films in the horror or shock genre that ranged from meh to fairly decent. I will add three that I think are worth a watch for those into that sort of thing, plus an honorable mention.

Horror Express (1972) - A solid film starring the great duo Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing with a respectable supporting performance from Telly Savalas. 

Count Dracula (1977) - An older adaptation of the novel from the BBC starring the late Louis Jourdan in the title role. The special effects have not aged well, but of all the various adaptations this is widely credited as the most faithful to the original book. 

Salem's Lot (1978) - The original made for TV adaptation of Stephen King's novel of the same name starring the late David Soul and Lew Ayres. Originally a two part mini-series, be sure to watch the unedited version. There is a cut down version that omits so much that it is almost unwatchable. A couple of scenes involving windows and a rocking chair still give me the creeps.

And an honorable mention...

The Car (1977) - Like every decade, the 1970s produced its share of low budget B grade films that served their purpose (making money) but were otherwise unimpressive and usually pretty forgettable. The Car starring James Brolin is a pretty good representative example of that sort. The film is listed in John Wilson's book The Official Razzie Movie Guide as one of the 100 Most Enjoyably Bad Movies Ever Made. Oddly though, this one which was also once described as "so bad it might actually be good," has gained something of a cult film status among horror movie junkies.