31 More Days of Horror: Willard (2003)

Hypnotic opening credits are just the beginning to this atmospheric and moody creature feature. Willard Stiles (Crispin Glover) is a shy, but psychotic soul whose only friends are rats. When Socrates is murdered, Willard seeks revenge on The Man.

Deceptively simple, Willard doesn't rely on gore to score. Instead we are introduced to an introvert who has discovered a rat infestation and turns it into a true friendship with beady-eyed buggers. In seeming thanks for his friendship, Socrates and Ben are willing to do his bidding.

One element makes this movie: Crispin Glover. With untold emotionality, Glover is perfectly creepy. Those steely eyes, that sadistic gleam, those twitches, that hunch--it chills the soul.  His evolution from sick boy to masterful freak is a brilliant play.

Willard's revenge is ultimately directed at his cruel boss, Mr. Martin (R. Lee Emery). Martin berates and dehumanizes Willard at every turn. Embolden by Willard's lack of defense {Glover's slow simmer is palpable} Martin continues to bully until Willard is forced to turn to Ben. Ben {the rat, mind you} views this opportunity to cement his role in Willard's life and exacts his pound of flesh from Mr. Martin on Willard's behalf.

Every other element is a compliment to Glover. The modest production is dark and aged. Macabre, if you will. Willard is just a bizarre, cultish film with an ending to die for. It's revolting and fascinating all at the same time. Ultimately, the film works on two levels: as a black comedy or an allegory--you decide. Either way, you won't be disappointed.