Chayanne, Gabriel, Amor Inmortal. Latinos on strong list of horror movies.

Latinos on strong list of horror movies

Published 11:35 a.m., Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Whether it's blood-sucking vampires, the living dead or ghosts and evil spirits, Latinos have had prominent roles in bringing such scary tales to life. Here's a look at some of our favorite depictions.
“From Dusk Till Dawn”
What is it: The 1996 film by San Antonio-born director Robert Rodriguez stars Salma Hayek, Cheech Marin and Danny Trejo. George Clooney and Quentin Tarantino also star as two fugitive bank robbers who end up in a Mexican bar filled with vampires.
Why see it: As one of Rodriguez's early works, it's among the first to feature the maverick director's signature over-the-top violence. And, there's Hayek's infamous table dance. (If you haven't seen it, check it out on YouTube.)
Where to find it: Available on DVD.
“Vampiro”
What is it: The 2009 straight-to-video horror film stars Damian Chapa (“Blood In, Blood Out”) as half-human, half-vampire Casanova Vladimires, who is out to rid an East Los Angeles barrio of vampires terrorizing its residents.
Why see it: Although this film is categorized as a horror drama, several online commentators pointed out the film's comedic (perhaps unintentional) moments. Plus, how often do you see a vampire in the barrio?
Where to find it: Available on Amazon.
com for less than $10.
“Cronos”
What is it: Written and directed by Guillermo del Toro, the 1993 Mexican horror thriller chronicles a mysterious device that gives eternal youth to those stung by its bite.
Why see it: Critics and fans have praised the film's unique retelling of the classic vampire story.
Where to find it: A 2010 DVD and Blu-ray release of the film (in Spanish with English subtitles) features audio commentaries from cast and crew, an interview with del Toro and a video tour of his home, plus a short horror film by the director.
“Gabriel”
What is it: A 2008 Spanish-language miniseries about immortal love involving vampire Gabriel Marquez, who longs to be reunited his true love. Puerto Rican singer Chayanne plays the title character.
Why see it: If you're a fan of telenovelas and you like your vampires on the sexy side, then you'll want to check this out.
Where to find it: All 10 episodes are available on DVD in Spanish with English subtitles.

“Night of the Living Dead”
What is it: The 1968 zombie film by George A. Romero has become a cult classic and spawned six other “Living Dead” films, including “Dawn of the Dead” in 1978, and 1985's “Day of the Dead.” None of the storylines of the “Living Dead” films are connected except for the zombie element. The original follows two siblings who encounter zombies while visiting their father's grave.
Why see it: Originally criticized for its gore, the film eventually won over fans and critics. It's considered one of the greatest movies ever made, and is preserved in the National Film Registry because of its cultural significance.
Where to find it: A Millennium Edition of the film, featuring interviews with the cast and a look at the low-budget props used in the film, is available for less than $5 on amazon.com.
“The Orphanage”
What is it: The 2007 Spanish-Mexican suspense thriller produced by Guillermo del Toro follows a woman who returns to her childhood home, an orphanage she plans to refurbish and make a facility for disabled children. Strange things begin to happen and then her young son goes missing.
Why see it: A winner of seven Goya awards (Spain's equivalent of the Oscar), the film, originally released under its Spanish title, “El orfanato,” avoids gore and relies instead on psychological thrills to scare audiences.
Where to find it: The film is available on DVD and Blu-ray.
“Drácula”
What is it: The 1931 Spanish-language American horror movie directed by George Melford was filmed at the same time as the famous Bela Lugosi version. The Spanish-speaking cast includes Lupita Tovar and Carlos Villarías in the title role. The Lugosi version was filmed during the day, with the Spanish-language version filmed at night using the same sets.
Why see it: The film is a rare find. For years, its only surviving print was missing several minutes of footage until it was recovered in Cuba and restored, according to published reports.
Where to find it: The 2-hour film is included in the “Dracula: The Universal Legacy Collection” DVD box set, which sells for less than $30 on amazon.com.




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