The Amityville Horror

Starring: James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger
Written by: Jay Anson, Sandor Stern
Director: Stuart Stern
Year: 1979

Rating: * * * 1/2  Stars       +       (Fan Bonus - * )  Total: * * * * 1/2


Often imitated, seldom duplicated. This is how haunted house films should be done. Then again, the Amityville Horror had a lot going for it. Consider it's adapted from a best selling novel that reportedly is based on a true story. Add two actors who are in their prime, and a director that knows how to build tension, add some creepy kid's lullaby music and Amityville Horror couldn't be anything less than a success.


The story centers on George and Kathy Lutz (James Brolin, Margot Kidder), and her three children from a previous marriage. As newlyweds,  they purchase a home that normally would be way outside their price range. However, a horrific murder happened in the home in which the eldest son killed his entire family with a shotgun. Killing, at the behest of "the voices." This caused the real estate value to drop, making it affordable.


Almost immediately strange things begin to happen.  Crucifixes fall off the wall, strange noises are heard, the daughter starts seeing a girl named Jodi, who the parents dismiss as an imaginary friend. George Lutz begins obsessing over the heat and loses sleep maintaining the fire in the fire place. Father Delaney (Rod Steiger) comes to bless the house, only to be attacked by a swarm of flies and a stern voice shouting "get out."


Things only get worse. Father Delaney meets resistance from the church when he tries to explain that the family needs help. The evil begins to take its toll on the Lutz's marriage. Kathy and the kids grow frightened of George. George grows negligent in his work. As they slowly uncover the history of the house, things begin to escalate. Finally, 28 days after they moved in, the Lutzs flee their home forever.


The film does a good job of not going too over-the-top too early. The horror is much more psychological than effects and make-up heavy horror films rely on. James Brolin illustrates his character's confusion and frustration as things begin to unravel. Margot Kidder is convincing in her increasing despair and hopelessness. Even the way the house is shot, with its lit attic windows peering down like sinister eyes. The house almost feels alive.


In 2005, a remake was done. CGI and effects replaced the art of building tension resulting in a forgettable experience.






SEE THE TRAILER: The Amityville Horror