New Jersey Stage 2015 - Issue 10 | Page 44

second film, he’s given some great dialogue to chew on. A confrontation between Loomis and Myers in a gas station is one of the highlights not just of this film but the series as a whole. Loomis, replete with burn scars from Halloween II’s finale, is now a tired old man who resorts to begging Myers to “leave those people alone.” Few slasher flicks can boast of such a human moment. As the newly elected heroine of the series, 10-year-old Harris is a revelation, a child actor who actually acts like a child rather than a miniature adult. Director Little does some effective if not earth shattering work behind the camera. His two greatest contributions are the moody shots of farmland in the credit sequence and a Vertigo-type zoom in the aforementioned gas station set-piece. Compared to the hacks who would take over in subsequent sequels he does an admirable job. After collaborations with Carpenter, composer Alan Howarth strikes out on his own for this film’s score. While the central themes remain, Carpenter’s absence is notable and the music isn’t nearly as effective as in previous films. Halloween 4 was met with scorn but, importantly, it won back the fans with a thrilling and snappy installment in the adventures of their favourite mass murderer. Sadly, the series was about to enter its wilderness years. 4 stars out of 5 NewJerseyStage.com 2015 - ISSUE 10 44