The best of John Carpenter: Five films every horror movie fan should watch this Halloween

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John Carpenter, born in 1948, is a filmmaker who needs no introduction for fans of horror, sci-fi, and action. Known for his minimalist style, haunting musical scores (often composed by himself), and his ability to blend genre elements with social commentary, he's one of those rare directors who has left an indelible mark on multiple genres. His movies often feature anti-heroes, chilling atmospheres, and a pervasive sense of dread, exploring themes of paranoia, societal collapse, and the fragility of humanity in the face of unknown terrors. Though he found his niche in horror, Carpenter's filmography spans several genres, each marked by his signature style and biting critiques of American culture.

His films are iconic, his soundtracks unforgettable, and his influence undeniable. And through all of that he was able to achieve cult status, influencing generations of filmmakers and viewers alike. So let's not waste any more time. Here's what we consider to be the best of John Carpenter.

5. Christine (1983)

Alright, I have to confess: my undying love for Stephen King probably influenced my decision to include Christine on this list! Based on the novel by Stephen King, Christine tells the story of Arnie Cunningham, a high school outcast who buys a rundown 1958 Plymouth Fury, only to discover that the car has a mind of its own. As Christine is restored to her former glory, Arnie's personality begins to change, and the car's malevolent influence turns deadly for anyone who stands in their way.

Carpenter takes King's story of obsession and possession and turns it into a meditation on the corrupting nature of power. Arnie's transformation from a timid, bullied teenager into a confident yet increasingly cruel and isolated figure mirrors Christine's own rejuvenation. The car becomes a symbol of unchecked desire and control, as Arnie's humanity is consumed by his need to dominate those who once belittled him. Carpenter's direction emphasizes the eerie bond between man and machine, crafting a tale that mixes supernatural horror with psychological exploration. Through its sleek cinematography and pulsating soundtrack, Christine remains a stylish and chilling study of how far people can go when seduced by power.

4. Big Trouble in Little China (1986) & They Live (1988)

Okay, so after half an hour of serious brain gymnastics, I realised it's just impossible for me to pick one over the other—so I'm going to bend the rules a bit and include both! Big Trouble in Little China is Carpenter at his most playful and downright fun. It's a wild mash-up of martial arts, mythology, and humour, wrapped up in a delightfully over-the-top adventure. Jack Burton, our hapless yet lovable hero, flips the script on the traditional action lead, bumbling through a fantastical world that he barely gets. The film revels in cultural diversity and pokes fun at genre clichés, making it an absolute cult favorite for its sheer joy and creativity.

Now, on the flip side, we have They Live, where Carpenter gets a bit more serious and politically savvy. This film serves up a sharp satire on consumerism, corporate greed, and the growing gap between the rich and the poor—issues that feel just as relevant today as they did back in the late '80s. When Nada discovers the hidden alien agenda, it's like a wake-up call to the realities of societal manipulation. And who could forget that iconic line: "I have come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass... and I'm all out of bubblegum"? It perfectly captures the movie's blend of action and social commentary. I had to pair these two together because they both showcase Carpenter's incredible knack for mixing genre entertainment with deeper themes, ensuring they leave a lasting mark on pop culture.

3. Escape from New York (1981)

Welcome to the dystopian future of 1997, where Manhattan has been transformed into a maximum-security prison—yes, you heard that right! When Air Force One is hijacked and the President crashes inside this chaotic hellhole, the government sends in their secret weapon: Snake Plissken (played by the one and only Kurt Russell), a former soldier turned criminal. His mission? Rescue the President in exchange for his freedom. No pressure, right? Escape from New York is a prime example of Carpenter's genius in crafting gritty, dystopian worlds where society has completely unraveled and anti-heroes reign supreme.

With his signature eyepatch and world-weary attitude, Snake Plissken has become one of Carpenter's most iconic characters, embodying a kind of nihilistic yet oddly moral rebellion against authority. He's not your typical hero—more like an anti-hero with a heart (somewhere under all that tough exterior). But this film isn't just a thrilling ride; it's also a sharp commentary on government corruption, the erosion of civil liberties, and the dehumanizing effects of a militarized state. Carpenter paints a bleak vision of the future, but within that darkness, individuals like Snake manage to retain their autonomy and fight back against the system—albeit in their own grungy way. With its mix of dark humour, tense action, and a vividly imagined world, Escape from New York has solidified its place as a classic in both the sci-fi and action genres. So grab your gear and get ready for a wild ride through a Manhattan that's anything but welcoming!

2. The Thing (1982)

Welcome to the icy, isolated wilderness of Antarctica, where the cold isn't the only thing that'll send chills down your spine! In The Thing, we follow a group of American researchers who stumble upon an alien life form with a truly terrifying ability: it can assimilate and perfectly mimic other organisms. As paranoia sets in like that relentless Antarctic chill, the crew finds themselves in a high-stakes game of "Who's Who?"—trying to figure out who's still human and who's been taken over by this shape-shifting menace.

This film is the crown jewel of Carpenter's collection, showcasing his mastery of paranoia and body horror. The Thing explores some seriously heavy themes like trust, survival, and the terrifying unknown. The claustrophobic setting and the crew's growing suspicion of one another create an atmosphere of dread that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. And let's talk about those grotesque, groundbreaking practical effects! They're so impressive that you might find yourself questioning what's lurking in your own fridge! The alien's uncanny ability to imitate its victims taps into some primal fears about identity loss and isolation. Carpenter brilliantly uses the frigid, barren Antarctic landscape to amplify the crew's sense of isolation, both physically and psychologically. And the film's ambiguous ending—where the last two survivors stare each other down with a mix of suspicion and dread—cements The Thing as one of the most unnerving and thought-provoking horror films ever made. It's a chilling exploration of what it means to be human when everything familiar can no longer be trusted. So, grab your parka and prepare for a wild ride through the depths of paranoia—you won't want to miss this one!

1. Halloween (1978)

On Halloween night, Michael Myers, a masked killer who escaped from a mental institution, returns to his hometown to stalk and murder teenagers. Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis), a high school student, becomes his primary target, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse game of survival. I had to put Halloween in the top spot, not just for its groundbreaking impact on the slasher genre, but because it redefined horror itself. With minimal bloodshed and an emphasis on suspense and atmosphere, Carpenter turned Halloween into a masterclass of tension-building. Michael Myers, with his emotionless mask and relentless pursuit, became the embodiment of pure evil.

The film's simplicity—both in plot and execution—is its greatest strength, as Carpenter uses the quiet streets of suburban America to create a sense of pervasive dread. At its core, Halloween explores the idea of unstoppable evil and the fragility of safety in the mundane. The final shots, showing Michael's disappearance and the empty, darkened streets of Haddonfield, suggest that evil can strike anywhere, at any time, and that no place is truly safe. Carpenter's eerie score, composed of simple piano notes, became iconic, adding to the film's sense of unease. Halloween remains a touchstone in the horror genre, spawning countless imitators but rarely equaled in its execution of suspense. It is Carpenter's defining work, a film that forever changed the landscape of horror cinema.

And that's all for today! John Carpenter's diverse filmography demonstrates his ability to create iconic characters, tense atmospheres, and thought-provoking narratives across multiple genres. Whether dealing with masked killers, alien invaders, or dystopian futures, Carpenter's films speak to a deep-seated fear of the unknown, while often critiquing societal structures and human behaviour. From the minimalist terror of Halloween to the paranoia of The Thing, Carpenter's movies have left a lasting legacy that continues to influence filmmakers and thrill audiences worldwide.

Now we would love to hear about your experiences with John Carpenter's work! Which of his films do you consider the best? Would you rearrange the list or add any others? We can't wait to read your thoughts in the comments!