The Fog (1980)

 

Few directors do atmospheric chillers quite like John Carpenter. He also is one of those people that can create slick-looking films on a fairly tight budget, which is what 'The Fog' definitely is. Looking for a gorgeous looking thriller that is absolutely able to give you the willies? Then look no further than this one.

The Californian town of Antonio Bay is gearing up for its hundredth anniversary, but amidst the festivities strange things start to happen: electrical failures, unexplainable moving objects and bizarre sounds fill the night. No one truly pays much heed, but when the crew of a fishing boat goes missing, some people get this uneasy feeling something is amiss. The thick fog that occasionally shows up is also rather distressing.

As it turns out, the town only managed to prosper when years ago, six townspeople tricked the leader of a leper colony out of its gold, only to then make sure his ship and crew crashed on the rocks whereby all perished. And because vengeance likes its symbolism, now the ghosts of the dead have returned to seek retribution on the descendants of those six conspirators...

The tension and atmosphere here are through the roof. We are treated to only a few select characters, which makes us feel for them more. Carpenter has always been strong in building tension and this one is no different. From the start of the film with its ghost story told by an elderly captain to the very first appearance of the ship Elizabeth Dane and the ghosts, you feel on edge. It's great filmmaking. The ensemble cast does an excellent job and you will see many a familiar face. Adrienne Barbeau is our anchor, who is mostly alone in her lighthouse doing her radioshow, but she sees the fog rolling in and tries to warn people. 

You don't see the ghosts much, which works to this film's advantage. There are some pretty gnarly kills, even if most of it is subdued and not that explicit, but the thick layer of fog makes it all the better. When the lepers are in full view, they feel more akin to vengeful red-eyed zombies, but it works wonderfully thanks to great lighting and Rob Bottin's makeup-skills. And with an expert director of photography like Dean Cundey behind the camera, you know it's going to look good. 

A classic ghost tale for the ages? Absolutely. 'The Fog' has heart, suspense and manages to captivate even after all these years. Fully recommended!

Just make sure to ignore the atrocious remake that decided to portray the ghosts as ugly CG atrocities and does away with the mood that makes this one so enjoyable.