Book 18 and classic horror

Flight Volume 2 was a joy. If I had to choose one word to sum it up (which I don't), I'd choose growth. The volume itself is about double the size of the first volume and the stories also seem to have grown. Some literally, in the case of one which picks up where it left off in volume one, and some figuratively as they tackle other themes, while still maintaining the "flight" motif. The traditional collection caveat still holds up as you'll always find some stories that you enjoy more than others, but once again the overall feel of the book is one of contentment and satisfaction. The art ranges from interesting to simply beautiful. If you liked the first one, you'll feel right at home with the second. If you missed the first one, pick this one up as there will be something inside that will enchant you.

Watched Night of the Living Dead last night. I can see why it's considered a classic (as well as a genre starter). I wouldn't really call it scary, but it was occasionally eerie and it told an interesting tale. I find it interesting that the best horror films are far more often character centered pieces than setting centered. It's only occasionally what's happening (although that makes for great jump moments), but who it's happening to, that's what really drives great horror. I'm pretty sure this was the first zombie movie (partially evidenced by the fact that they're never called zombies - they're called ghouls a couple times, but that's as close as it gets). I'll have to track down the etymology of the word zombie as it got applied to film. Shot in black and white with a soundtrack that only occasionally matches up to the action onscreen Romero's first entry into the "Dead" series is a great start. Follow several people trapped in a house they don't know surrounded by something they don't understand - walking corpses bent on their destruction, if not consumption.

Despite being an older piece, it holds up pretty well. Although there are a few corny moments, but that's almost a staple of the horror world itself. If nothing else, you know it's a good movie when your wife gets into it and can toss off a couple appropriate one liners at the screen. "Mmmm barbecue" indeed. Heh... There were a couple twists at the end that really helped drive some of the "horror" home. Certainly worth the dollar I paid for it. I look forward to checking out the sequels...