On Friday night, the people of France experienced a horrific and tragic series of terrorist attacks in Paris. Resulting in a death toll that is still rising, these scumbags purposefully attacked the very things that bring us the simple joys in life, be it eating at a restaurant, cheering for your team at a stadium, or rocking out at a concert.
But the fear that the terrorists thought they were instilling in the French people hasn’t taken hold. If anything, they are now even more resilient and committed, proudly proclaiming, “We are not afraid!” It is because of this brave attitude that I am bringing up a topic that some may see as tasteless but one that I see as a testament to the courage and strength of the French people.
We all know that some of the most vicious and brutal horror films come from France. And I want to show my support to that country by recognizing several amazing titles that have come from there. Below are a few of my favorites and then I want you to tell me yours in the comments.
If you think this is tasteless, please understand that it was not my intention. I merely want to celebrate the creativity and the perseverance of the French people.
Haute Tension
The first extreme French horror film I’ve seen and one that I still thoroughly enjoy to this day. Essentially a road horror mixed with psychological elements, this film was renowned amongst the horror community for its viciousness and intensity, the likes of which we hadn’t seen in a while. I vividly remember the anticipation on Bloody-Disgusting from both the writers and the readers as this movie neared a release.
Le Pacte Des Loups
I remember seeing Brotherhood of the Wolf in theaters and being absolutely blown away. The mix of action, horror, martial arts, romance, and mystery was almost too much for my brain to handle. Gorgeously crafted with unbelievable texture, the movie is still one of my favorites and something I will happily put on and watch at any time. Plus, that absolutely delightful score by Joseph Loduca (Evil Dead, Army of Darkness) needs to be mentioned.
Frontiere(s)
I haven’t seen this movie in a while but I feel that it’s extremely relevant considering the events of Friday. Yes, France may not be perfect (what country is?) but extremists will be defeated, no matter where they’re from. France may emerge broken, bruised, bleeding, and completely different from before but they always had the strength to defeat their enemies.
Martyrs
It’s not an easy film, to put it mildly. In fact, it might be one of the most difficult films I’ve seen, leaving me deeply unsettled and rattled to the core. Regarded as one of the best French horror films ever made, it’s one that’s hard to recommend yet I recognize is incredibly important to witness. Perhaps that’s the beauty of it. That’s the true horror of Martyrs…
