Every day for the month of October, Coming Soon is making a new horror movie recommendation for those eager to find a new frightening flick for Halloween. From the creepy goodness of a classy ghost story to a blood-spattered gorefest and everything in between, we’ll have something for every taste of horror. And today’s pick is…
Bubba Ho-Tep
What’s Bubba Ho-Tep about: Based on the 1994 novella of the same name, this surreal horror-comedy asks audiences the question what if we lived in a world in which Elvis Presley and John F. Kennedy survived their apparent deaths? Don Coscarelli, the mastermind behind the cult horror franchise Phantasm, answers the question in hilarious fashion, revealing that through a skin pigment change the former President is now an African-American man, played by the powerful Ossie Davis (Do the Right Thing), and is friends with the King of Rock and Roll himself, portrayed by none other than Evil Dead veteran Bruce Campbell, who is revealed to have swapped lives with an impersonator after growing weary of the partying lifestyle. As the two become good friends and embrace their aging nature and the fact no one will ever believe the truth of their identities, they learn of a mummy who is on the loose and killing off members of their Texas retirement home and must fight to save themselves and their roommates before it’s too late.
Why Bubba Ho-Tep rules: From the film’s wacky premise to its intriguing exploration on themes of aging and identity, there’s a lot to explore and love, but the clear winner for why to watch this movie is none other than the man, the myth, the legend Bruce Campbell. The actor, also known for his main role on the acclaimed USA Network action comedy Burn Notice, steps into the role with such ease and embraces the epic persona of the King that sets his performance apart from every other portrayal of the legendary singer.
How scary is Bubba Ho-Tep: Though not a scary movie per se, there’s plenty of things to enjoy for the time of the season, namely the film’s primary antagonist the mummy as it works its way through the rest home’s residents and even its caretakers.
Be on the lookout for: Despite being the lead character of the film, not a single Elvis Presley song is used in the film. In addition, the 24-hour Elvis Presley movie marathon advertised on TV uses no actual clips from The King’s filmography.
Where to watch Bubba Ho-Tep: The film is available to stream for free on Amazon for Prime members, while being available to rent for $3.99 and available for purchase on Blu-ray special edition and DVD.
CS October Horror Movie Recommendations:
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