Released in 1986, Trick or Treat directed by Charles Martin Smith, is a film that blends horror, hair metal, and teen angst, ultimately becoming a cult classic over the years. The movie, set against the backdrop of a mid-80s heavy(ish) metal scene, explores themes of revenge, the supernatural, and the power of music, all wrapped up in a Halloween setting. While Trick or Treat may not have been a major hit upon release, its unique mix of horror and music, combined with a memorable performance by a rising star, has earned it a cherished place in the hearts of horror and metal fans alike.
The plot centers around Eddie Weinbauer (Marc Price), a high school outcast and passionate fan of the late rock star Sammi Curr (Tony Fields). Eddie's life takes a dark turn when Sammi dies in a fire under mysterious circumstances, only for Eddie to discover that Sammi’s spirit is still very much alive—and using his music to exact revenge on those who wronged him in life. With the help of Sammi’s music, Eddie becomes embroiled in a series of increasingly violent and supernatural events, where the lines between the living and the dead begin to blur.
At its core, Trick or Treat is a film about the power of music, and how it can shape both the individual and society. Eddie, an introverted teenager who is bullied at school, finds solace in Sammi’s music, which speaks to his anger and sense of alienation. The movie captures the mid-80s heavy metal culture, using it as a vehicle for its supernatural plot. Sammi’s music isn't just something that Eddie listens to; it becomes a conduit for the ghostly force of vengeance, a reflection of how music can sometimes possess a dark, almost hypnotic power over those who embrace it. This theme resonates deeply with a generation of fans who used music as a form of identity and rebellion.
Marc Price, best known for his role as Skippy on Family Ties, delivers a surprisingly compelling performance as Eddie. His portrayal of a troubled teen who discovers that his favorite rock star’s legacy might not be as pure as he thought is both earnest and relatable. Eddie's journey from fanboy to a participant in the supernatural chaos that ensues makes him an engaging protagonist. While his character could have easily fallen into a clichéd "nerd turned hero" archetype, Price's nuanced performance adds depth to Eddie’s transformation. By the end, Eddie is not only dealing with the terror of Sammi's vengeful return but also grappling with the realization that his hero was not a figure of inspiration, but someone with a much darker side.
Tony Fields, who plays the late rock star Sammi Curr, is an effective antagonist, even though he only appears in a limited number of scenes. Through a combination of intense charisma and sheer menace, Fields manages to make Sammi both a tragic figure and a terrifying presence. His character embodies the idea that fame, celebrity, and the public's adoration can sometimes mask a far more dangerous and destructive nature. Sammi, once a beloved musician, becomes a symbol of the corrupted, vengeful power of the rock star mythos, which in turn becomes a driving force of horror in the film. Sammi’s songs, which Eddie plays backward in an attempt to communicate with his spirit, are depicted as having a sinister, malevolent power—a clever nod to the "backmasking" rumors that haunted the music industry during the 1980s.
The film’s mix of horror and rock music creates an energetic atmosphere that both entertains and unnerves. The soundtrack, which features songs from fast-rising metal bands of the era like Fastway, adds authenticity to the film’s metal-infused plot. Sammi's songs play a central role throughout the movie, and the fact that they are directly tied to the supernatural events that unfold gives them a weighty presence in the narrative. The juxtaposition of blood, gore, and heavy guitar riffs creates a unique tonal blend that sets Trick or Treat apart from other horror films of its time.
However, the film is not without its flaws. The pacing, at times, feels uneven, particularly in the third act, where the film leans into a more predictable slasher narrative. There are also moments where the supernatural elements can feel a bit disjointed, leaving the audience to fill in some gaps about how exactly Sammi’s ghost is manipulating events. While these moments don’t significantly detract from the enjoyment of the film, they do highlight its limitations in terms of narrative coherence and the budgetary constraints of the time.
Despite these shortcomings, Trick or Treat succeeds in capturing the rebellious spirit of its time. It channels the 1980s’ love for rock ‘n’ roll, the horror genre’s penchant for supernatural terror, and the era’s fascination with teenage angst. The movie’s Halloween setting adds to the sense of dread and provides the perfect backdrop for its supernatural elements, even if Halloween itself is not central to the plot.
The film's conclusion is satisfying in its catharsis, tying up the supernatural plot in a way that leaves room for contemplation. Eddie’s journey from a powerless, bullied teenager to someone who confronts both his fears and the dangerous world of rock stardom is poignant. The message resonates with anyone who has ever felt alienated or disconnected from the world around them, using music as a form of personal escape and empowerment.
In retrospect, Trick or Treat is a fascinating time capsule of the 1980s, when the influence of metal music was at its peak, and horror films were experimenting with new forms of storytelling. While it may not be a flawless film, its blend of horror, supernatural elements, and metal culture make it a unique and enjoyable experience. It’s a movie that embraces the absurdity of its premise, yet somehow makes it work in a way that many other films would fail to do. For fans of 80s horror, and metal music, or just those looking for an entertaining, quirky horror film to watch on Halloween, Trick or Treat is a must-see.
- 4K restoration from the original 35mm camera negative mastered in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible) and approved by Academy Award-winning Director of Photography Robert Elswit (THERE WILL BE BLOOD)
- Lossless English DTS-HD Master Audio of the original 2.0 theatrical mix and an all-new 5.1 surround sound mix
- Audio commentary with director Charles Martin Smith, moderated by filmmaker Mark Savage
- Audio interviews with writer/producer Michael S. Murphey and writer Rhet Topham, moderated by film historian Michael Felsher
- Audio conversation with Paul Corupe and Allison Lang, authors of Satanic Panic: Pop-Cultural Paranoia in the 1980s.
- Rock & Shock: The Making of TRICK OR TREAT - An all-new retrospective featuring director Charles Martin Smith, actors Marc Price, Glen Morgan, Elise Richards, and Larry Sprinkle, writer/producer Joel Soisson, costume designer Jill Ohanneson, assistant set costumer Francine Decoursey, construction foreman Tom Jones, Jr., special make-up effects artist Everett Burrell, music executive producer Stephen E. Smith, composer Christopher Young, and a special appearance by Gene Simmons
- In The Spotlight: A Tribute to Tony Fields, featuring interviews with the late actor’s family and friends
- Horror's Hallowed Grounds: The Filming Locations of TRICK OR TREAT with Sean Clark
- “After Midnight” music video
- Theatrical Trailers, TV Spots and Radio Spots
- Still Gallery featuring optional audio interview with still photographer Phillip V. Caruso
- Vintage electronic press kit
- Region free for worldwide playback
- Limited edition o-card available on FIRST PRESSING ONLY!