‘Horror’s Greatest’ Recap: ‘Horror Comedies’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

The Boulet Brothers (Dracmorda and Swanthula) in ‘Horror’s Greatest’. (Photo Courtesy of Shudder.)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Horror’s Greatest’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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When we think of horror stories, we think of well… pure terror. Because the genre has established itself to be a beacon for all things scary, by offering up stories that deeply unsettle and disturb us and tap into our most primal fears. Which makes horror, some serious business. The kind that many believe, shouldn’t offer jokes or lighthearted moments in the slightest, so we can properly bask in the scary moments it provides us with. But alas, that’s the wrong way to think of horror. For it is the most intelligent and versatile genre out there, and because of that, it can accomplish wonders when it dabbles in genre fusion, as evidenced by last night’s episode of Horror’s Greatest on Shudder.

For ‘Horror Comedies’ explored how a little humor can help bring about some stunning horror stories, the kind that flat out… can make the genre more accessible to people and help ease them into the true terror it holds. Take Beetlejuice for instance. Since that’s a horror comedy that is spooky, but never overpowering, and funny enough that one never feels threatened. Not to mention, there are horror comedies out there, that can be so fun and so outlandish that one is just treated to an entertaining and campy ride. One that sometimes harbors stunning gore. That also has minimal impact because the fun factor is there. All of which, helps in motivating people to dig into horror further.

Not to mention, they can tell some entertaining stories that offer the perfect balance of horror and comedy. Take Evil Dead 2 for instance. Since that particular film is filled to the brim with moments that are outright horrifying and unsettling but are wonderfully counterbalanced by the incredible work of Bruce Campbell and the keen eye of Sam Raimi. Plus, Re-Animator is another movie in that vein (pun intended) since Herbert West’s desire to reanimate the dead in that story is supremely horrific in nature. Complete with putrid zombies that do awful things with their bodies and with the bodies of others. Yet at the same time there are outlandish laugh out loud moments that genuinely break the tension. All of which makes for a rollercoaster ride experience that you feel comfortable with, and of course… you’re outright entertained.

But what truly makes these types of horror films so worthwhile, is that they are in fact, a wonderful way to explore our greatest fears. Because like it or not, horror can be overwhelming in that manner, and some of the hardest of horror films keep you up at night, because they can cross lines in some people’s minds and poke their fears a little too hard. But here, you can face the awful nature of death and our fear of it in a manner that is gentle or silly, or both, and gently process it in the back of your mind. Giving rise to a horror experience that is unlike any other, and truly this can help people process some serious fears, because how can one be afraid when laughter and a little mugging for the camera takes place?

All of which are lovely points that made for another worthwhile viewing experience from this series. Since it once again, educated and showcased some important films, the kind that new fans can seek out and enjoy and old horror haunts can revisit and find joy within. Because horror comedies, are just fun, and they truly offer up a wild escape that is unlike any other out there, and well… now that we’ve reached the end of this lovely examination of a highly overlooked corner of the genre, it’s time to turn our attention to the finale of this series and it’s excellent choice from a focus perspective. Since next week’s episode, will dive deep into the world of Stephen King, and the many nightmares he’s brought to the silver and small screen. Until next time.

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