Horror is not dead: Indie horror flicks that you should own.

If you'll look back at the last few years, at horror that has been released theatrically, you'll see an alarming trend. For the most part, we're treated with bland Hollywood remakes, of recently released foreign horror, or rehashes of past American cult classics. Every now and then, a decent, original horror film slips through the cracks, and makes it to the big screen. Sadly, these rare films are usually not met with the same ticket sales as the next big rip-off. A well versed onlooker may think that Hollywood is trying to kill the horror genre, and succeeding. While the mainstream horror movie is all but dead, the indie horror scene is thriving, and needs your support.

Some of the most important horror films, not only of the past decade, but of all time have been independent from the Hollywood structure. Unfortunately, outside of festivals, these movies are usually dumped direct to DVD. What can you do to help, you ask? The first step is abstaining from flocking to the theater to see the 32nd Saw film, or this month's obscure remake of horror history. The best way to speak out is to use your wallet. Be choosy of the films you see at the cinema, if you have a choice that is. If you have a choice, between another remake, or something different, see something different instead. The next thing you can do is spend money on indie horror on DVD. For me, I've almost stopped going to the theater, as it's not worth it most times. I do, however have a massive DVD collection. A lot of which is indie horror. It's easy to keep up with if you read your favorite horror site(Which is hopefully us) add a few news feeds to your google home page, so that every time you open your browser, you see what's new in indie horror.

Below, is a list of independent horror films that you should go out of your way to purchase. The list is in no particular order. Feel free to share your own indie must-haves in our comment section, or on our facebook group.

Splinter.

Splinter took me by surprise. For some reason, it slipped through my radar. I caught it on Time Warner On-Demand back before it was released to DVD. I wasn't expecting much, but it was around Halloween, and I was wanting a horror movie to watch. From start to finish, I was completely drawn-in to Splinter. It's unique take on the "Body Snatchers" style of horror left me in awe of this little indie that could. One thing that makes this movie stand out amongst other body snatcher style films is the setting, and the cinematography. It's very claustrophobic, set in mostly one, small location. Director Toby Wilkins, whom oddly went on to direct The Grudge 3(One of the better, but still bad Grudge films) could create some great indie horror classics, if given the proper support. Add to that, Shea Wigham's stellar performance, and that scores Splinter a spot as a must-own for any horror fan.




End of the Line.

End of the Line is a Canadian horror film from 2007. It went by pretty much unnoticed by all. The only way I can describe this film is that it's a religious slasher/survival horror type of movie. It's not religious as in it preaches a religious message, but the antagonists are a religious cult, that has vowed to rid the world of sinners. Much like Splinter, most of End of the Line is set in one location, a subway system. This adds a layer of claustrophobia to an already tense film. While the film does have a few flaws, for the most part it's a solid example of indie horror done right. It's tense, the pacing is tight, the kills are good, most of the special effects are practical, and the acting, for the most part suits the movie. If you live near one of the closing Movie Gallery, or Hollywood Video locations, every one of those stores I've been to has had a copy or two of this film for 5 bucks at the most. It's well worth that price, and is strongly recommended that you add this one to your collection. If you're constantly on the look out for hidden gems, End of the Line will not disappoint.



Alien Raiders.

Alien Raiders is cursed with such a ridiculous name, most people pass it up in fear of it being another terrible SyFy original. This is definitely not the case with this one. Don't let the silly name fool you, Alien Raiders is another solid example of a great, overlooked indie horror classic. Starring Carlos Bernard, better known as Tony, from TV' 24, Alien Raiders is another "Body Snatchers" style sci-fi/horror film. Set mostly in a small grocery store, the action never lets up. From start to finish, Alien Raiders is tense, and has plenty of well done ooey gooey stuff for the gorehounds out there. All effects appear to be practical, and handled well. The acting is more than apt, and the cinematography does a great job at making you squirm. It's a shame that this one flew by unnoticed, as it was one of the better Horror/Sci-Fi flicks of 2008, in my opinion of course. Don't let the terrible name distract you, I promise you there's a good time waiting for you in Alien Raiders.


Borderland.

Borderland is part of the Afterdark Horror Fest. Some of the films they showcase might not be wonderful, but AfterDark films is certainly on the front line in the fight for indie horror. Bordeland was one of the best of the 8 films that were part of the second annual horror fest. Starring Rider Strong, who's become a cult favorite since his role in Eli Roth's Cabin fever, Borderland involves a group of friends, who have taken a trip to Mexico before they all go their separate ways. Some dismiss Borderland as simple torture porn. Personally, I find that label to be silly, for any movie. We're shown here, the horrible things that humans do to other humans. There is no supernatural force in Borderland. It's just people, being cruel to people for personal gain. The pacing is one of the best things about the movie. It get's started quick, doesn't linger,and doesn't have the ever popular twist for the sake of twists that's become a staple of modern films of this nature. It's quick, and dirty, just the way I like it. If you missed this one, pick it up on the cheap, it's definitely worthy of being added to your collection.


Carriers.

Carriers is one that I almost skipped. One of my main prejudices when it comes to film is the PG-13 rating. More times than not, a horror film get's a PG-13, because the studio has given the film makers a strict guideline to adhere to. I feel this waters films down, and hinders the artistic vision of it's makers. Sometimes, of course, there are exceptions to the rule, and Carriers is one of them. The film is an excellent entry into the post apocalyptic "virus" style films. It's a zombie film without zombies. A virus has ravaged through the earth's population. We follow a group of survivors, as they make their way through the desolate roads in an attempt to find more supplies. One performance that surprised me, was Chris Pine as Brian. His performance alone raises this movie's score significantly. Don't let the PG-13 scare you, there was no holding back in Carriers. Violence, when necessary is not watered down. I'm frankly surprised they even let this one get away with the rating to begin with. If you like post apocalyptic features, Add Carriers to your library. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

I've rambled on a little longer than I thought I would, so I'm going to break this up into a multi-part article. Here's 5 independent horror films that any fan of the genre should own. I'll give you some time to go DVD shopping, and be back again with 5 more.

Remember, it's indie horror that's keeping our genre alive, so when given the opportunity, throw some money into the jar. Like I said earlier, nothing speaks louder than the wallet, perhaps, if we pour more money into indie horror, than going each month to reward the current lack of creativity in Hollywood, we'll get a response.