Book Review: Horror Film Poetry
By Elizabeth Suggs
Horror Film Poetry by Christoph Paul and illustrated by Joel Amat Güell is an electrifying love letter to the genre that sends chills down your spine and tickles your funny bone all at once. This unique collection features personal poems that take us through the disturbing and hilarious realms of iconic horror films, showcasing both the terror and absurdity that define this beloved genre. Accompanied by striking artwork from Joel Amat Güell, this book is a visual and literary feast for horror enthusiasts.
Ash from Evil Dead
From Alien to Zombieland, the table of contents reads like a curated film list for your next horror movie marathon. Each poem dives into the essence of its film, capturing the themes, emotions, and memorable moments with a sharp wit that resonates with fans. The shorter poems pack a punch, delivering impactful lines that linger long after reading. For example, in It Follows, the haunting line “We are natural selection haunting itself” speaks volumes about the film’s frightening premise.
One standout is the poem based on American Psycho, where the author mirrors the book's infamous name drops and music references. Lines like, “I then stab the corkscrew into her thighs, spread them and use her labor to pull off the cork,” evoke the visceral horror of the story while maintaining a twisted sense of humor. The tone across the poems feels familiar yet fresh, reflecting the essence of the films while adding a unique poetic flair.
Alfred Hitchcock
The illustrations by Joel Amat Güell are a perfect match for the verses, enhancing the mood and atmosphere of each poem. Whether it’s a grotesque visual representing The Thing or a playful nod to Shaun of the Dead, the art amplifies the reading experience and brings the horror to life in vivid detail.
Horror Film Poetry does an exceptional job of balancing the chilling aspects of horror with humorous undertones. Lines like “The night ocean is champagne on my skin / Drunk men are jellyfish,” from the Jaws poem, evoke a sense of dread wrapped in a layer of dark humor, capturing the essence of both the film and the genre itself.
Favorite Quotes:
American Psycho: “Her screams and whimpers are the most interesting things she has said all night.”
A Serbian Film: “God is a camera lens.”
The Beyond: “It’s easier for hell to pass through the eye of a needle, / Than for an innocent woman / To enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Evil Dead: “Evil is in my friend, / But my cleft chin and chainsaw / Are what the dead fear.”
Overall, Horror Film Poetry is a brilliant celebration of horror films, weaving together humor, terror, and art into a compelling collection that fans will love. It serves not only to entertain but also to provoke thought about the nature of horror and its reflection on society. Whether you're a die-hard horror aficionado or just looking for an engaging read, this book is sure to satisfy your cravings for both chills and laughs.