Exhumed: Paul Rudd in "Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers" (1995)

by Joseph Perry and Mike Imboden

In their “The Good, the Bad, and the Verdict” film reviews, Joseph and Mike normally give their thoughts on a slice of cinema. However, “Exhumed” will focus on the first (or very early) credits of established actors, giving their roles the GBV treatment.

For this installment, it’s Paul Rudd in Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers.

Intro

Six years after his last rampage, Michael Myers returns to Haddonfield, this time targeting his niece, Jamie Lloyd, and her newborn son. Jamie, now a teenager, has escaped from the clutches of a mysterious cult that has been manipulating Michael and his family for generations. The cult, known as the Cult of Thorn, seeks to continue a bloodline connected to Michael, believing it will bring about a new era of evil.

The film concludes with a shocking twist that sets the stage for the next installment in the series. Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers is a divisive entry in the franchise, with some fans embracing its supernatural elements and others criticizing its departure from the more grounded horror of the earlier films.

The Details

While Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers is often considered one of the weaker entries in the franchise, Rudd's performance as Tommy Doyle stands out. He brings a sense of intensity and vulnerability to the role, capturing the character's complex motivations and inner turmoil. His portrayal helps ground the film's more outlandish elements, providing a relatable figure amidst the supernatural chaos.

The Verdict

While Paul Rudd has since become synonymous with comedy and superhero roles, his early appearance in Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers remains a fascinating footnote in his career, showcasing his versatility as an actor and his ability to tackle darker, more serious roles.

Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers