The Perplexing Jigsaw of the ‘Halloween’ Universe
Over four decades and 13 films, the Halloween franchise has baffled, scared, and intrigued audiences in equal measure. While you might think the story simply follows Michael Myers on his bloodthirsty quest to murder Laurie Strode, played brilliantly by Jamie Lee Curtis, the plot is far from straightforward. The franchise presents a dizzying array of timelines, narrative elements, and twists that would make even the most ardent fans scratch their heads.
“The series begins with 1978’s Halloween, and while the numbered titles thereafter would lead you to believe everything just flows in order, it really doesn’t.”
Immortal Michael: The Saga of Not-So-Permanent Deaths
One of the most enduring elements of the Halloween franchise is the invincible nature of its central character, Michael Myers. No matter what obstacle, trap, or weapon his opponents use, he inevitably comes back to life. This recurring theme has added a level of enduring intrigue to the series.
“Characters, including Strode, have actually managed to kill Michael Myers over the years — or so they thought, until he just popped back up again in the next movie.”
Genesis of the Invincible: Halloween ’78 & ’81
John Carpenter’s original 1978 film introduces us to a young Michael Myers, who evolves into a menacing figure with no regard for human life. The iconic moment when Dr. Loomis shoots Michael multiple times, only for him to disappear in the final frames, is etched into the horror annals.
The sequel, Halloween II, further cements Michael’s ‘unkillable’ reputation. Laurie shoots him in the eye, and Dr. Loomis sets the hospital on fire in an explosive finale. Yet Michael resurfaces, invincible as ever.
The ’80s and ’90s Revivals
The narrative expands with Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers, where Michael targets Laurie’s daughter, Jamie. Despite being shot multiple times and falling into an open grave, Michael miraculously survives.
“Michael wasn’t dead, of course, and Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers questions just how human a man that can go through all of this trauma and keep coming back really is.”
In Halloween 6: The Curse of Michael Myers, the script delves into the mystical, attributing Michael’s invincibility to an ancient Druid curse. A drastic narrative departure, but it keeps the central premise of his immortality intact.
The H20 Detour & Halloween: Resurrection
The H20 timeline goes back to the roots, featuring an adult Laurie still haunted by her experiences. She beheads Michael, but not for long. In Halloween: Resurrection, he’s back to terrorize a group of live-streaming teenagers, concluding with a roundhouse kick by rapper Busta Rhymes. No, we’re not making this up.
Rob Zombie’s Interpretation
Rob Zombie’s rendition of Halloween gives us a grittier backstory for Michael, exploring his psychology in depth. Although Laurie and Dr. Loomis seem to defeat him, he reappears in the sequel, as expected.
The Modern Reboot: More Than Just a Slasher Film
David Gordon Green’s trilogy, beginning with Halloween (2018), offers a modern take, aiming for a fitting end to the series. Yet even in Halloween Ends, the franchise leaves room for doubt. Michael’s body is sent through an industrial-sized shredder, but can we ever be sure of his demise?
“The next entry in this part of the franchise, Halloween Ends, is set four years after Halloween Kills and shows Laurie trying to reclaim a normal life.”
The Final Reel?
The 2022 film, Halloween Ends, leaves us with a perplexing question: Is Michael Myers truly finished? Based on past trends, betting against his return would be foolish.
“Whether you believe Michael is really dead or not is now up to you, but statistically the odds are not in your favor, as Michael has returned in 11 out of the 13 films after being killed.”
To sum it up, the Halloween franchise is a labyrinth of plot twists and revivals, making it one of the most puzzling yet enthralling series in cinema history. For those wanting to venture into this maze, watching the films in order by release date or chronology is your best bet. But remember, Michael Myers may just surprise you again.
