Ashamedly, I'd never heard of it until last night when I was browsing the dusty shelves of my local Blockbuster (of which, this particular branch is an ever depressing place, forever empty and reeking of loneliness... but enough of my Thursday night). As per usual, I found myself getting angry at the majority of pathetic films on display and was all but ready to jack it in, go home and get something on pay per view. That was at least until this diamond in the rough exposed it's pert little self to me...
It was only the other day that I was wondering why nobody makes Horror films like they used to during the late 70's and 80's anymore? By that I mean films that take their time to buildup some real tension instead of rushing headlong into a tedious, cliche ridden plot. Most Horror films these days seem to want to make the audience piss themselves during the opening thirty seconds and then attempt to supply a cheap 'jump' every 6 minutes thereafter. This film trades in those obvious techniques and opts instead for dreadful anticipation, there's no instant gratification here, the audience is in for the long game.
Although it was only made in 2008 it looks like it's straight out of the 80's. This is pure retro homage, and they've pulled it off superbly. The score is brilliant too, really capturing the time period and tone of the film very well. This moment in particular is great and very creepy in its correct context, featuring a tune by The Fixx. It's a great sequence, she can move too...
Although House of the Devil isn't the scariest film out there, I respect it for not pandering to the expectations of the Multiplex audience and for not conforming to the conventions of recent slashers. It uses suggestion and suspense over all-out gore, it's a real slow-burner. Fans of Rosemary's Baby will not be disappointed.
So, if you're looking for a good, intelligent Horror flick this Halloween, you can't go wrong with this. Here's the trailer to whet your appetite...
On a final note, it's worth watching it if only for the performance of the lead actress, Jocelin Donahue. She's one to watch I think.
