By Geno McGahee
In 1972, Wes Craven would be exposed to the public with his gritty and unapologetic “THE LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT.” It was daring and brought a new sort of horror film to the public. Films like THE STRANGERS and FUNNY GAMES were greatly influenced by the Craven original film. It could really happen. He would follow up in 1977 with THE HILLS HAVE EYES, another notable entry in the genre. Craven was making his way in a very tough business.
A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET would be the game-changer and make Craven a superstar. In 1984, Freddy Krueger was introduced and a brand new horror icon was born. The movie led to many follow-ups and a remake and there is another remake in order. He would write the third entry “DREAM WARRIORS” and “NEW NIGHTMARE” as well in the series.
SCREAM would come out in 1996 and show the clever approach to film that he had. The genre was in terrible shape at the time and desperately looking for direction and it found it with the slasher/whodunit that was also built upon. It is another franchise that Craven was responsible for that is still carrying on today.
Today, Craven would lose his battle with brain cancer, passing away at the age of 76. It is a sad day for horror, but the legacy that he has left behind has given him a life that will never end. He will live again in every horror fan that discovers SCREAM, A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET or THE LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT. RIP Wes Craven.
