The best reasons to sit alone in the dark: Island theater offers up three spooky good shows for Halloween

Published 2:16 pm Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Grab your popcorn and gather your nerves because it’s once again the spookiest time of the year, and there are at least three reasons to embrace the dark this Halloween.

Whether you’re a scaredy cat or a fright fiend, Bainbridge Cinemas has a seasonal show that’s just scary enough for you.

First, experience the latest version of Bram Stoker’s classic monster in “Dracula Untold.”

More superhero than scary monster, this latest Dracula (played by Luke Evans) transforms from the cursed man history knows as Vlad the Impaler to an all-powerful antihero, complete with a new origin story and family ties to protect.

The film earned three and a half out of four skulls from premier horror culture magazine Fangoria, and is rated PG-13.

Visit www.farawayentertainment.com/location/bainbridge-cinemas for the most current show times.

Next, for the more refined panic palette, consider National Theatre Live’s thrilling broadcast of “Frankenstein.”

This latest production of the timeless Mary Shelley monster story is directed by Academy Award-winner Danny Boyle (“Trainspotting,” “Slumdog Millionaire”) and features Jonny Lee Miller (“Trainspotting,” “Mansfield Park”) and Benedict Cumberbatch (he of “Sherlock” and “Star Trek: Into Darkness” fame) alternating roles as Dr. Victor Frankenstein and his creation.

The show is being returned to select theaters for a limited run due to unprecedented audience demand.

The rated R fright fest comes to Bainbridge Cinemas at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29.

Finally, for the cult crowd, returns the staple screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31.

In this creepy classic, college sweethearts Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon), stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), an insane transvestite scientist.

As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters including a rocking biker (Meat Loaf) and a creepy butler (Richard O’Brien).

A Bainbridge tradition for many years, the film was historically screened at the Lynwood Theatre until the event was moved to the downtown Winslow screen several years ago.

The audience is encouraged to dress up and participate.

Much like the mythical monsters of old, this film refuses to die. According to broadway.com, it holds the world record for the longest theatrical release ever. It has been nearly continually screened around the world since it premiered in 1975.

The film is Rated R for suggestive themes, sexual content, mild violence and brief adult language.

Visit www.farawayentertainment.com for ticket prices and more information.