Who or what really made Halloween–What put it on the map
- The character of Michael Myers (the shape)
- The mask(s)
- Loomis character
- Lorie Strode character
- Music score
- John Carpenter/Debra Hill’s script
- Clever camera angles
Just thought I’d generate some discussion and get other’s opinions and thoughts. Everyone loves the movies and ideas or we wouldn’t be here. I’d be curious to hear what other members really believe “made” the series. Was it the idea of the shape? Was it the mask? Would it be DP’s character of Dr. Loomis? JL as Laurie? Or perhaps the music score that sent chills down your spine the first time you heard it? I know it is probably a combination of all elements but if you had to choose one, what would it be? I probably left out some other options but it is late and I need some sleep.
Nick Castle IMO made it plust Tommy Lee Wallace got the mask.
Can’t really vote on just 1, It was the Planets Aligning that made Halloween what it was. 
I agree. For the most part, all the right people at all the right time, but that MUSIC is what pushed it over the edge…
I’d say John Carpenter/Debra Hill’s script. In the same breath I have to say that if it was set on a random night and called “The Babysitter Murders” I wouldn’t love it as much. The fact that it takes place on Halloween was/is the real draw for me.
I voted for the music score, but besides the character of the shape, I think THE FANS are truly what made Halloween. word of mouth made this movie successful, It was just the right time too put that movie out…
-KennyD
for the options i choose “the mask”. sipmly because i feel that was the strongest element that factored in to make Halloween the iconic film it is today. that mask IS Michael Myers.
obviously Jonh’s script and music was almost equally as important. however, i feel if the script was changed, as long as that mask (was being worn by somebody)
and that creepy music score was still there, it would still be an iconic film, reguardless of characters names and where they went during the film.
i agree with skutterk, everything played a role in making Halloween what it was in the end. they created a peice of timeless magic with that film, and even with that mask itself.
Good stuff! Yeah, there are many options out there and I think they all had to function like a well-oiled machine but it is good to see what is memorable to everyone.
Cheers!
The music really makes it scary but without the mask Halloween wouldn’t be twisted in my head.
If there was a guy with converalls on and no mask plus the awsome music there would of never been HII
It was all of the above. The stars were in alignment when they made HALLOWEEN and every person & place had a hand in it.