7 Terrible Horror Films That Deserve Another Opportunity

      EJ Moreno revisits horror films that didn't receive a warm reception…

      As horror enthusiasts, we often acknowledge that some of our beloved films might not resonate with everyone. This is part of the genre's nature, as it can easily divide audiences based on tone, gore, directors, and the overall legacy of a franchise.

      Using Rotten Tomatoes ratings as a guide, we will highlight seven movies that merit a second look. Our exploration traverses various decades and sub-genres, each encapsulating the distinctive charm of horror films that deserve a bit more love…

      Honorable Mentions:

      Saw (50%)

      – It’s astonishing to consider that Saw, now one of the most notable franchises, started with such modest origins as an overlooked indie film.

      Frogs (26%)

      – Viewed as a Jaws-era imitation, Frogs, when appreciated on its own, stands out as an offbeat and clever creature feature starring Sam Elliott.

      Two Thousand Maniacs! (45%)

      Going back to 1964, Two Thousand Maniacs! serves as an early indication of audiences resisting innovation, even as it eventually became a norm.

      The extreme gore present in this Herschell Gordon Lewis film initially shocked viewers, but over time it found its audience. When that happened, many recognized Two Thousand Maniacs! as a thrilling blend of gruesome fun and genuine horror. Its influence persisted, especially during the “torture porn” trend of the 2000s.

      Despite its imperfections, particularly the dated effects, this gritty slasher wins you over. It even saw a remake in 2005 featuring Robert Englund, a testament to its enduring appeal.

      Halloween III: Season of the Witch (50%)

      Season of the Witch might have fared better with a different title, like Silver Shamrock, as the Halloween branding raises expectations. Fans anticipate Michael Myers, who is noticeably absent.

      However, when viewed separately as an intended anthology piece exploring the fears surrounding the holiday, it’s wonderfully dark. Tom Atkins shines as a doctor determined to uncover the sinister secrets of the Silver Shamrock Novelties factory. With intriguing mythology and memorable masks, this quirky film soon reveals itself as a thrilling experience. Be prepared to get the haunting jingle stuck in your head for days.

      John Carpenter initially intended for filmmakers to delve into the terrifying aspects of the Halloween season rather than making Michael Myers a focal point of the franchise.

      Idle Hands (16%)

      For those familiar with my preferences, a sleazy Satanic teen movie from 1999 is sure to appeal to me. Although Idle Hands faced challenges in gaining acceptance, it captures exactly the kind of charm I seek in horror.

      Rated the lowest on this list, you might assume this film is a complete disaster, but it’s typical teen schlock from that year. Idle Hands succeeds because it understands its tone, style, and perspective. Sure, it can be overtly hormonal and aimed at teenage boys, but that was par for the course in 1999. Products of their era deserve appreciation, and this film is an enjoyable journey.

      Ironically, just a year later, star Devon Sawa appeared in another lesser-rated horror flick worth revisiting: the underrated Final Destination. Sawa dominated 90s horror!

      Scream 3 (40%)

      It's unjust to label any Scream film as bad, especially considering Wes Craven’s iconic original trilogy. While Scream 3 may not match the brilliance of the first film, few movies can reach that level.

      Scream 3, released in 2000, suffers from the script rewrites that plagued early installments, affecting the film's rhythm. Although it has difficulty finding its narrative flow, the effective elements, including two Gale Weathers, Craven’s direct criticisms of Harvey Weinstein, and excellent meta moments, shine through. Craven typically delivered strong work, making it surprising that this installment was seen as lacking.

      With the recent Wes Craven-less Scream sequels struggling to satisfy devoted fans, Scream 3 is a perfect candidate for a revisit. While its tone is a bit chaotic, the enjoyment factor remains undeniable.

      The Devil’s Rejects (54%)

      Rob Zombie is a divisive figure in horror cinema. Whether it’s his hell-billy style or controversial remakes, he can provoke strong reactions. Nonetheless, this shouldn't overshadow the quality of The Devil’s Rejects.

      This sequel to his explosive debut, House of 1000 Corpses, released in 2005, elevated Zombie’s filmmaking to new heights. Departing from the heavy music video editing and campy tonal elements, it presents one of the most impactful exploitation films reminiscent of the 70s. It surprisingly evokes a sleazier version of a Quentin Tarantino film; many believe that if Tarantino's name were attached, it would be more widely praised.

      The Devil’s Rejects boasts a level of polish that is rare in Zombie's work. It feels like a cohesive vision from start to finish, and with a clim