Movie Review: House (1986)
Synopsis:
"House" (1986) is a horror-comedy that combines supernatural elements with dark humour and psychological tension. The film follows Roger Cobb (William Katt), a troubled Vietnam War veteran and a struggling author, as he returns to his late aunt’s haunted mansion in order to write a new novel and confront the trauma of his past. The house, seemingly a refuge for creativity, soon reveals its sinister nature, filled with bizarre occurrences and terrifying apparitions.
As Roger settles into the decaying abode, he is plagued by nightmares and disturbing visions of his estranged son, who went missing years earlier. The house itself becomes a character, manifesting Roger’s deepest fears and insecurities. He encounters various supernatural entities, such as a malevolent creature and manifestations of his own guilt and anguish. As Roger navigates the complexities of his mental state, he discovers the dark history of the house, which has a connection to his family’s tragic past.
With time running out and the apparitions growing more aggressive, Roger must confront his inner demons and unravel the secrets hidden within the walls of the house, all whilst trying to protect himself and those who unexpectedly join him in this harrowing journey. The film is an exploration of how past traumas can haunt us, both literally and metaphorically, and how one must face their fears to find peace.
Cast of Characters:
- William Katt as Roger Cobb
- Kay Lenz as Julia Cobb
- George Wendt as Harold
- Richard Moll as The Beast
- Laraine Newman as the Real Estate Agent
- Michael Ensign as Bruce
- John Ratzenberger as The Mailman
- Susan French as Aunt Elizabeth
Review:
"House" is a film that pulls its audience into a disorienting ride through horror and humour, thriving in its unique blend of genres. Directed by Steve Miner, who also helmed two sequels to the beloved "Friday the 13th" series, "House" stands out with its idiosyncratic premise and strong visual aesthetic. The film is beautifully shot, utilising a mix of practical effects that, while perhaps dated by today’s standards, evoke an authentic sense of dread that is often missing in more recent horror ventures reliant on CGI.
William Katt delivers a compelling performance as Roger Cobb, the beleaguered protagonist. His ability to oscillate between vulnerability and bravado perfectly encapsulates the character’s struggle with both personal demons and external horrors. Katt imbues Roger with a sense of real, palpable desperation, anchoring the more surreal elements of the film in genuine emotion. As audiences follow Roger’s descent into madness, his ties to the harrowing events in Vietnam and the tragedy of his son become more pertinent, bringing an underlying weight to his terror that resonates far beyond the film’s immediate horror.
The supporting cast also contributes significantly to the film’s success. George Wendt, best known for his role in "Cheers," plays Harold, a comedic yet earnest friend who provides a counterbalance to Roger’s more serious moments. Wendt’s performance brings light-heartedness amid the escalating horror, and his character serves as an audience surrogate, fostering an emotional connection and grounding Roger’s experiences in friendship. This balance between comedy and horror is one of the film’s strongest suits – a skillful dance that keeps viewers both amused and terrified.
The premise of a haunted house has been explored countless times in film and literature, but "House" manages to carve out its unique niche, primarily through its uncanny mix of absurdity and poignant themes. The design of the house itself, complete with shifting walls and menacing shadows, builds an atmosphere of suspense. The film employs classic horror tropes – creaking doors, hidden basements, and flickering lights – only to subvert expectations with bursts of surreal humour and bizarre twists. As Roger grapples with his phantoms, both real and imagined, the film ventures into uncharted territory that mirrors the protagonist’s psychological unraveling.
One of the standout aspects of "House" is its use of practical effects, which play a crucial role in establishing the film’s eerie ambience. Richard Moll’s portrayal of The Beast is particularly noteworthy; he embodies a grotesque, looming figure that capitalises on the audience’s fears without relying on modern digital alterations. The art direction, cinematography, and special effects work in concert to create a nightmarish vision that feels distinctly tactile, resulting in terrifying creatures and haunting visual metaphors that stick with the viewer long after the film’s conclusion.
The sound design enhances this atmosphere – eerie echoes and dissonant chords punctuate the more intense sequences, contributing to an overwhelming sense of dread. The film skilfully juxtaposes moments of levity, such as Roger’s interactions with Harold, against these sonic assaults, crafting a rollercoaster of emotions that keeps viewers on their toes. The music score, composed by Harry Manfredini, is equally effective, mixing orchestral swells with unsettling motifs that echo throughout the house, echoing Roger’s turmoil.
Despite its absurdity, "House" does not shy away from tackling genuinely poignant themes, such as grief, guilt, and the struggle for redemption. Roger’s journey is underscored by his longing to protect his son and confront the mistakes of his past. The film deftly handles the concept of facing one’s fears, showcasing how unresolved trauma can manifest in terrifying ways, blurring the line between psychological horror and physical manifestations. This thematic depth enriches the viewing experience, offering more than mere scares or laughs.
However, whilst "House" generally succeeds in delivering an engaging mix of horror and comedy, there are moments where the film’s pacing falters. Certain sequences may feel overly drawn out or meander slightly, causing a loss of tension in some places. Additionally, the tonal shifts, while expertly crafted for the most part, may be jarring for viewers unaccustomed to blending genres. These criticisms do not detract significantly from the overall experience, but they are worth noting for potential viewers looking for a flawlessly paced narrative.
In conclusion, "House" is a remarkable film that stands as a testament to the creativity possible within the horror genre. It brilliantly intertwines elements of comedy, supernatural horror, and poignant emotional struggles, transforming the humble haunted house trope into a rich tapestry of despair, laughter, and surreal terror. William Katt shines as Roger Cobb, anchored by a talented supporting cast who elevate the narrative. Although the pacing could have been more streamlined, the film ultimately delivers a captivating experience that resonates emotionally and entertains thoroughly.
Score: 8.5/10
