Question:

Could you elucidate on the criteria or method that Michael Myers employs to select his victims in the horror film series?

Answer:

Myers’ victim selection seems to be a mix of opportunistic encounters and deliberate stalking. In the original films, he often targets teenagers and his family members, particularly his sister, Laurie Strode. His fixation on Laurie is a recurring theme, and those associated with her often become collateral victims.

Opportunistic Kills:

There are instances where Myers’ choices appear random, such as when he encounters individuals while on the move. For example, in *Halloween (2018)*, Myers bypasses a crying baby after murdering a woman moments before. This decision was not part of the original script but was a last-minute addition during production. The director, David Gordon Green, mentioned that Myers’ decision not to kill the baby was an “ethical choice” he makes in the movie.

Stalking and Planning:

Myers exhibits a penchant for stalking his victims, sometimes allowing them to catch glimpses of him before he strikes. He also displays a morbid creativity in posing his victims post-mortem, creating gruesome tableaux as part of a larger, terrifying narrative. This behavior suggests a methodical approach, where Myers not only selects his victims but also plans the aftermath to maximize fear and horror.

The Unpredictable Element:

Despite these observations, Myers’ selection process remains unpredictable. Discussions among fans and theorists suggest that Myers may have a personal code or set of criteria known only to his deranged mind, making his actions seem random to outsiders. This unpredictability is a crucial element of his horror, as it leaves both characters and audiences uncertain of who might be next.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Michael Myers’ method of selecting victims is a complex interplay of opportunism, fixation, and a twisted sense of planning. While some patterns can be discerned, much of his behavior defies explanation, adding to the character’s enduring legacy as a horror icon. The lack of a clear rationale behind his actions is precisely what makes him so terrifying — the idea that anyone could be a target without reason or warning.