"What's your favorite scary movie?"
A lot of masterpieces have come from the horror genre of cinema. "A Nightmare on Elm Street," and the entire "Scream" franchise are some prime examples. What they have in common too, is their creator – Wes Craven. Sadly, on Sunday evening, Craven lost his battle with brain cancer, and passed away at the age of 76.
(Wes Craven with actors Everett McGill and Wendy Robie on set of "The People Under The Stairs" – via Best Horror Movies)
Craven, originally from Cleveland, studied English and psychology at Wheaton College, and then went onto pursue a Master's degree in Philosophy and Writing at John Hopkins University. He proceeded to take a teaching job at Clarkson College in Potsdam, N.Y., and it is there that his love for film would begin.
With the help of Sean Cunningham (who would go on to create the "Friday the 13th" franchise!), Craven was able to create his first film – "The Last House on the Left." He wrote, directed, and even edited the film! If you've ever had the chance of seeing it, you know how graphic of a movie it is. Well, it was so violent and gory that it was actually banned in Britain! The rest, after that, is essentially history.
(still from The Last House on the Left - via IMDb)
Craven directed over two dozen films, bringing us the terrifying but hilarious Freddy Krueger in 1984. Thanks to Craven we also have Johnny Depp. How so? Johnny Depp's first feature film performance was in "A Nightmare on Elm Street!" So, thanks Wes!
(Depp as Glen in "A Nightmare on Elm Street" – via Eye for Film)
He was a filmmaker who would push the boundaries within the horror genre. He redefined it in the late 90's with what is probably his best known work, "Scream." Films that weren't afraid to poke fun at the horror genre, and reference other films, the "Scream" franchise has made over billions of dollars. Not only that, but Ghostface Killer became an extremely popular character afterwards too (I dressed up like it for Halloween once, and everyone thought I was a boy....).
Craven continuously redefined the genre, not only by pushing the boundaries with gore when he first started, but also later with (like stated before) being able to poke fun at itself and the horror genre altogether. He was a master at his work, and knew how to tell the best stories through his directing and writing.
On an informal note: as a director, who is interested in making horror films, Wes Craven was an icon. I've learned so much through watching his films, reading about his process, watching some 'behind the scenes,' and by listening to his commentaries and interviews.
This is truly a big loss within the Hollywood and horror film community. Let's not mourn, though. Instead, let's remember. Let's kick back, crack open a cold one, and have ourselves a good ol' fashion horror movie marathon.
P.S: If you're not sure where to start in regards to Wes Craven films, there's nothing wrong with starting at the beginning. Fair warning, though, "The Last House on the Left" is extremely graphic at times. "The Hills Have Eyes" is always a nice option. As are classics like "A Nightmare on Elm Street," "New Nightmare," and "Scream." If you're looking for something a bit creepier, check out "The People Under the Stairs." For something a bit cooler, and overall fun to watch, "Vampire in Brooklyn" is what to watch. No matter what, though, enjoy.
