Sandy Supposes....

Thriller Memories

         Ah, Michael Jackson's Thriller. That catchy distinctive beat is now an ear worm, but not in the least annoying. Listening to it once again has called pleasant memories to the surface. I recall the fun of the video, basing it on a date at a movie theatre watching a horror film, and the fantastic dancing of the resultant zombies. It is playful and toys with a young woman's perception. Is her boyfriend a zombie, or did she dream of their frightening encounter? After all, he assured her "I'm not like other guys, I'm different." She anticipated a nice kind of different.

What creative genius to use Vincent Price's unmistakable spooky voice as a narrator! He could produce a maniacal cackle / laugh, too.

         I love the nod to this famous horror movie actor with the marquee reading ' Vincent Price Thriller.' I wonder if he was aware of this homage?

         This song and its special effects video came out when my three kids were verifiable youngsters. They loved to sing and dance along with MJ. Over and over they attempted to recreate his signature moves and that iconic zombie shuffle. Stiff arms raised, bodies slouched, heads held tight to one side in a loll they squirmed and perfected their own zombie dance. Sometimes in their zeal furniture would be over turned, knees bruised, dogs' tails trampled. They never could look scary though. I'd bet they'd instantly assume those poses and shuffle today if they heard Thriller. They'd recognize the music as a reflex.

         Rewatching this video I noticed the lyrics more than I did at its release. I think it's safe to say MJ was a wordsmith. He painted vivid pictures with his lyrics. I'm singing these words as I type them. "You try to scream, but terror takes the sound before you make it." Yes, that describes extreme fright.

         This song and dance belongs to Hallowe'en lovers worldwide. Who doesn't recognize it and entertain those nearby with their own zombie shuffle? What's not to like about make believe, dress-up, costumes, make-up and dancing?

         Mwaaahaha!

         ( 345 words )