Spencer Charnas, the mastermind behind the theatrical metalcore band Ice Nine Kills, has been captivated by the dark and chilling world of horror films for over three decades. From the gleaming blades of slasher flicks to the spine-tingling terror of psychological thrillers, Charnas has drawn inspiration from the genre's most iconic moments to craft his band's visionary and cinematic sound.

Unleashing the Horrors of the Silver Screen

Bringing Horror Home: The Impact of "Halloween"

Before the release of "Halloween" in 1978, horror films often took place in remote, otherworldly settings like Dracula's castle or Frankenstein's laboratory. But John Carpenter's seminal slasher flick changed the game by bringing the terror to the suburbs, with the fictional town of Haddonfield, Illinois, serving as a chilling backdrop that felt all too familiar to Charnas, who grew up in similar New England towns. "That aesthetic really struck a chord with me," he reflects. "When you're watching the old Universal Monster movies, it just doesn't seem like you'd see Dracula walking down a suburban street. But an escaped mental patient? That could happen!"

Uncovering the Ruthless Killer Within: "Friday the 13th Part 2"

While "Halloween" may have been Charnas' first foray into the world of horror, it was "Friday the 13th Part 2" that truly cemented his obsession with the genre. "It's extremely low budget," he explains, "and that only adds to how scary it is. When Mrs. Voorhees emerges from the darkness, she seems so sweet — a very Leave It to Beaver mother. Then she turns out to be this ruthless killer!" The gender reversal of the killer's identity left a lasting impression on Charnas, who recognized the ingenious subversion of the slasher trope.

Practical Effects and Gruesome Delights: "The Burning"

Though often dismissed as a "Friday the 13th rip-off," Charnas sees "The Burning" as a standout in the slasher genre, particularly for its impressive practical effects. "There's a canoe massacre scene that is one of the most unbelievable usages of practical effects that I've ever seen, especially for its time," he marvels. "The Burning is comfort food to me," Charnas admits, revealing his deep appreciation for the film's gory delights.

Infamy and Controversy: "Silent Night, Deadly Night"

Charnas' horror education was further expanded by the documentary "Going to Pieces," which introduced him to the controversial "Silent Night, Deadly Night." The film's portrayal of a killer in a Santa suit sparked outrage, with PTA groups picketing movie theaters in protest. "The negative publicity made this movie infamous and only helped its lore," Charnas explains, clearly relishing the film's notoriety.

The Scream That Launched a Thousand Nightmares: "Scream"

While Charnas had already developed a deep love for the slasher genre, Wes Craven's "Scream" took his passion to new heights. "That movie took my love of horror from being 80 percent of who I was to 250 percent," he admits. From the iconic Ghostface mask to the film's perfect blend of thrills and humor, "Scream" left an indelible mark on Charnas, who still vividly remembers the terror and excitement of watching it in the theater.

Underrated Chills: "When a Stranger Calls Back"

Though often overshadowed by its predecessor, Charnas believes that "When a Stranger Calls Back" is "one of the most underrated horror movies, ever." Directed by Fred Walton, the film's opening phone call scene is, in Charnas' words, "right up there with the beginning of Scream." With its unexpected twists and turns, the film has become a personal favorite for the Ice Nine Kills frontman.

Empowering Vengeance: "I Spit on Your Grave"

While the controversial subject matter of "I Spit on Your Grave" is undeniably difficult to watch, Charnas recognizes the film's importance in the horror canon. "It's not like a Jason movie where you're rooting for the killer; that's fun and games. This is not campy; it's dead serious. You sympathize with the victim and want to see [her attackers] get what's coming to them," he explains, highlighting the film's powerful revenge narrative.

Punk, Zombies, and Idle Hands: "Idle Hands"

Charnas' love of horror extends beyond the traditional slasher fare, as evidenced by his fondness for the genre-blending "Idle Hands." A unique blend of horror, comedy, and punk rock, the film's unlucky release date in the wake of the Columbine tragedy led to its untimely demise in theaters. "I'm very happy to see it's become a bona fide cult classic since then," Charnas says, clearly delighted that the film has found its rightful place in the hearts of horror fans.

Madness and the Macabre: "The Shining"

No discussion of Charnas' horror influences would be complete without mentioning Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece, "The Shining." Charnas praises the film's artful direction, its use of flashbacks and delusions, and the way it immerses the viewer in the claustrophobic isolation of the Overlook Hotel. "You really begin to drift into madness with Jack Torrance," he observes, captivated by the film's slow-burning descent into terror.

A Modern Slasher Icon: "Terrifier"

Charnas' love of horror extends to the present day, with the indie slasher "Terrifier" earning a spot on his list of favorites. "Art has a unique luxury that's rare for a silent slasher villain," he explains, marveling at the character's ability to emote and revel in his gruesome killings. "Art the Clown is already a modern icon; he'll be up on the Mount Rushmore of horror," Charnas declares, cementing the film's place in the pantheon of contemporary horror.