The Amityville Horror-1979

Director Stuart Rosenberg

Starring James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger

Scott’s Review #60

Reviewed June 23, 2014

Grade: B-

The Amityville Horror was undoubtedly more thrilling upon its original 1979 release, but sadly, time has not been kind to this film, and it does not hold up well any longer.

It feels dated, but that is not to say it is at all unenjoyable.

The movie’s atmosphere, building tension, and sense of dread are effective. The audience knows bad things will eventually occur.

The film’s look is dark and creepy, and the leads, James Brolin and Margot Kidder, are adequate.

The main problem with the film is that all along, there is a feeling that I am watching a pale version of The Exorcist (1973) or The Omen (1976), far superior films, with the religious theme that was heavily used in the horror genre throughout the 1970s.

Also, horror in 1970’s cinema was at its best, and by 1979, horror had shifted into the knife-wielding maniac vein.

Add to this the fact that the supposedly “true story” has since been proven to be a silly hoax, which takes away any shred of seriousness.

The scene involving the herd of flies is scary, but other scenes seem silly and inconsequential.

The Amityville Horror (1979) is not a bad movie, but similar films are far superior.

Oscar Nominations: Best Original Score