Halloween
Genius craftsman John Carpenter took the ideas of “Psycho” and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and ran with them, creating perfect cinematic roller coasters equal to “Jaws” or “Star Wars” in their joyful manipulation of the viewer. 6-year-old Michael Myers clearly has some issues when he stabs his sister to death; 15 years later, he returns to the scene of the crime with mask and knife in tow to wipe out unsuspecting babysitters. Strong visuals and performances transcend the material and keep the film from dating, and Myers’s frightening white visage can still give grown men nightmares. Oct. 29: Buttrick 015 at 4 p.m., Buttrick 101 at 7 p.m.; Oct. 30-31: Green Hills 16 at 8 p.m.

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari
The Film Studies Department continues its annual tradition with this seminal German silent film. Robert Wiene’s fantasy about the mysterious Caligari and his slavish somnambulist Cesare (a young Conrad Veidt) doesn’t have any jump scenes or slashings, relying on just being as freaky as possible. The economic shortages in post-war Germany meant minimal lighting, but the obviously painted shadows and theatrical sets created the signature tone of German expressionism. Count Orlok of “Nosferatu” will make a special appearance before the screening; costumes are encouraged. Oct. 27: Buttrick 103 at 7:30 p.m.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The ultimate midnight movie musical. Uptight Brad and Janet get stranded “Over at the Frankenstein Place” and find their lives changed by Dr. Frank N. Furter (Tim Curry), the transsexual transvestite from Transylvania. The good doctor is making a chiseled blond for his own enjoyment, and chaos ensues as the creature becomes involved with Janet. Or something. The plot isn’t as important as the licentious sexual camp dripping off the screen. Everyone remembers “The Time Warp,” but for my money, Meat Loaf’s throwback “Hot Patootie” steals the movie. And yes, that is Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon singing “Toucha Toucha Touch Me.” Oct. 27-28: The Belcourt at midnight.