Halloween Day by Day: "Friday the 13th" (1980) Theme

The 1980's brought us some of the most iconic horror movies- and created the idea of horror franchise: "Halloween", "Nightmare on Elm Street", "Friday the 13th".

It also gave us some of the most iconic horror themes as well. This week, we're going to listen to the theme to the 1980 release of "Friday the 13th". So, turn off the lights, pop in the headphones, and let's go...

There are some strong elements to this piece: The tempo is like a racing pulse, the back rhythm is like a tiger stalking a lost villager through the tall grass, the melody like a mosquito trying to avoid the fly swatter, the chorus like whispers of the damned coming from under your bed.

From the first sound of shattering glass to the ending reverberations, this piece of music is a microcosmic version of the movie from the discovery of the body to the end. You're scared and trying to escape the killer who's chasing you... you think you've lost the killer... you turn, and the killer is right there in your face... you run again- fleeing to safety... safety that may not be so safe after all...

There aren't many tunes that encapsulate the tone, mood, and style of a movie- but this theme does it masterfully.

It also wonderfully reflects the mental state of the killer with its discordant, screechy notes. I'd have to say that as a character theme, this movie is on par with the theme of "Psycho".

Just a wonderful piece. Listen to it below!

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