The best movies aren’t always the most interesting recommendations. Here are some movies I saw this year that, though flawed, will surprise, shock and entertain:

The Masque of the Red Death (1964). The harmonics of decadence and purity.

The Wizard of Gore (2007). Blood, guts and style.

Kill Buljo (2007). Possibly Norway’s first comedy, (but I don’t know if the humor translates.)

Berlin, Symphony of a Great City (1927). A silent vision of machines and buildings.

The Old Dark House (1932). It was a dark and stormy night.

Danger: Diabolik (1968). Is this more awesome, or more silly? Yes.

Altered States (1980). Science meets hallucinogens.

All of these movies work better if you read nothing about them beforehand. Do you trust me?