Tuesday, June 3, 2008

The Strangers

While I realize that I am biased, and some might use that to discredit my review, let me say that I am being completely unbiased when I say that The Strangers (written and directed by Crowley High Grad Bryan Bertino) is the best pure horror film in decades.  It is a true and full return to the suspenseful horror that used to keep me up at night when I was younger.  Unlike what many of the so-called "horror films" of today (I'm looking at you Saw and Hostel) much of the violence actually takes place off screen, and other then one exception, the blood and gore stuff is really pretty mild.

Being biased doesn't generally lead one to jump at the scary parts, and I guarantee that there are lots of genuinely scary moments in this film, and isn't that what a horror movie is supposed to do?  Scare us?  Not gross us out with body parts being cut off (sorry Ruins, this movie is much better, not to say I didn't think you were pretty good).

Another great thing about this film is that it takes the time to allow us to get to know the characters as well as make us anticipate that first scare making that much more surprising when it happens.  And getting to know the characters makes us a little more frightened for them.

This movie also does a pretty good job of having the main characters not act too stupid the way that most horror movie characters act.  The only exception is the introduction of a third character a little of midway through the film, and although you'll probably see his fate coming a mile away due to his stupidity, it doesn't lessen the impact of the scene.

If you feel like a good scare, (and you didn't already follow my advice and see the film last weekend) make it a point to go check out The Strangers.  You won't regret it.

Until Next Time, while I'm saddened that the film didn't beat out Sex and the City, I am extremely pleased with how well it did.  Help support a fellow Crowley High School Graduate.

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