The Evolution of Slasher Movies: Recollections from Early Viewing Experiences

The Early Beginnings

From an early age, the allure of horror has captivated many of us. Here are some reflections on the first slasher movies that left an everlasting impression on the hearts of horror fans.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

My introduction to the genre was 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre', the original 1974 film. I remember it vividly, being 7 or 8 years old when I first saw it. The movie was at a drive-in theater, and the night was filled with terror and fascination. Little did I know, that was the day I would fall in love with horror films. Strolling the drive-in as a child, I discovered a world of fear that would shape my understanding of the genre.

The Exorcist (1973)

A sneak into the theater, and I watched 'The Exorcist', a film that left me forever changed. Being too young to see it legally, I snuck into the movie. I was absolutely terrified and couldn’t sleep for days. For months, I slept with my lights on in my room, plagued by the terrifying scenes that played over and over in my mind. Horror was a much rarer spectacle back then. I was even scared of the wicked witch in 'The Wizard of Oz', and I still find it difficult to watch that film.

Jigsaw (From Saw Series, 2004)

Another early introduction to the horror world, but in a slightly different light, came from 'Jigsaw' (the first installment of the Saw series). It was not a classic like the others, but it was one of the earliest slasher films I watched. It left its indelible mark on my child's psyche, inspiring a new appreciation for the genre.

Classics That Last

Sometime later, I revisited 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre' and 'The Hills Have Eyes', both of which were featured in a double feature on the Z Channel. I remember feeling my heart race as I watched these timeless classics. Each scene seemed designed to invoke a primal fear, a sensation that stayed with me long after the movies ended.

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

I was only 5 when I watched 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' and the impact was immediate and profound. “1 2 Freddy’s coming for you, 34 Better lock your door, 56 Grab your crucifix, 78 Plan to stay up late, 910 Never sleep again.” These haunting words still echo in my mind, a testament to Freddy Krueger's enduring influence. For over a year, I refused to sleep alone, consumed by the fear of the Freddy who haunted my dreams.

Psycho (1960)

Although released nearly 60 years ago, 'Psycho' by Alfred Hitchcock remains a chilling classic. The sounds of poor Janet Leigh being slashed by Anthony Perkins’ alter-ego, Mother, and seeing her blood run down the shower drain, affected me so profoundly that I had nightmares for a week and couldn’t sleep without checking my bathroom door several times a night. This film, which many consider the first modern slasher movie, continues to influence the genre.

The Burning (1981)

'The Burning', released in 1981, was one of the earlier slasher films I watched. Unfortunately, my memory of the specific film is hazy, but it left a lasting impact on me. The jolt of fear and the dramatic plot twists remain vivid in my memory. 'The Burning' was a pivotal movie in my journey into the realm of slasher films, introducing me to a genre that continues to captivate and terrify.

Unforgettable Experiences

Finally, 'The Bird with the Crystal Plumage' (1970) from the Italian filmmaker Dario Argento, was an early shocker. I didn't even know it was a slasher film, and by modern standards, it might seem quite tame. But the violence was shocking at the time, and it left a deep impression on me. The film's shocking and unforgettable moments still resonate with me, serving as a reminder of the genre's evolution over the years.

These early experiences with slasher movies have stayed with me through the years, shaping my tastes and understanding of the horror genre. Each film, in its own unique way, contributed to my love for horror and set the stage for countless nights of sleepless fear and delight.