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Horripilations Review of Pet Sematary (1989)

Pet Sematary (1989) – Movie Review

Synopsis

"Pet Sematary," directed by Mary Lambert and based on the novel by Stephen King, is a chilling horror film that explores the themes of grief, loss, and the dark side of resurrection. The story follows Louis Creed (played by Dale Midkiff), a doctor who relocates with his family to a rural town in Maine. Louis, along with his wife Rachel (Amy Seimetz), their young daughter Ellie (Miko Hughes), and their baby son Gage (this role is played by twins), soon discovers a mysterious burial ground for animals, nestled behind the local pet cemetery—a place that holds a sinister secret.

When their beloved cat, Church, is tragically killed by a vehicle, Louis is reluctantly persuaded by his enigmatic neighbour, Jud Crandall (Fred Gwynne), to bury the cat in the ancient burial ground beyond the cemetery. To their horror, the cat returns, seemingly unchanged but with a malevolent edge. As the narrative unfolds, tragedy strikes again when Gage is accidentally killed in an accident. Grief-stricken and desperate to reverse what he has lost, Louis makes the fateful decision to exhume Gage and bury him in the same cursed grounds, setting off a harrowing series of events that lead to an exploration of the consequences of manipulating life and death.

The film is a gripping exploration of the darker reaches of the human psyche, demonstrating how one man’s inability to cope with mortality leads to devastating consequences. It tackles themes of parental love, the painful realities of death, and the moral implications of tampering with nature.

List of Actors and Their Characters

  • Dale Midkiff as Louis Creed
  • Denise Crosby as Rachel Creed
  • Miko Hughes as Gage Creed
  • Blaze Berdahl as Ellie Creed
  • Fred Gwynne as Jud Crandall
  • Brad Greenquist as Victor Pascow
  • Susan Blommaert as the ‘Solemn Woman’

Review

“Pet Sematary” (1989) is a film that stands the test of time in the horror genre, remaining provocative and unsettling even decades after its release. The film is steeped in the characteristic style of Stephen King’s storytelling, combining supernatural elements with profound emotional depth. The personal and familial themes are intricately woven into the spine-tingling horror, making it a rich narrative that resonates with audiences, particularly those who understand the inescapable nature of grief.

One of the film’s most striking aspects is its exploration of the nature of death and resurrection. King’s original text offers insights into how the characters navigate trauma and loss, but the film brings a distinct visual flair. Mary Lambert’s direction captures the somber atmosphere of New England’s rural landscape, lending a hauntingly beautiful backdrop to the unfolding narrative. The cinematography by Peter Stein is effectively stark, contributing to an overall sense of isolation that mirrors the characters’ emotional states.

Dale Midkiff delivers a compelling performance as Louis Creed. His portrayal conveys the fondness a father has for his children, the agony of loss, and the ultimately disastrous desire to defy death. Midkiff’s journey through anguish to a darker obsession captures the emotional turmoil that lies at the heart of the story. Likewise, Denise Crosby, as Rachel Creed, portrays a poignant mix of tenderness and vulnerability, particularly as her character grapples with her own traumatic experiences surrounding death from childhood.

The supporting performances, particularly Fred Gwynne’s Jud Crandall, are also noteworthy. Gwynne brings a warmth and gravitas to the role of the wise older neighbour, serving as a guide and, ultimately, a harbinger of doom. His character’s connection to the ancient burial ground adds a layer of dread to the narrative. The camaraderie he shares with Louis, coupled with his own past experiences, lends insight into the terrifying legacy of the cemetery.

Miko Hughes is particularly memorable as Gage, the innocent toddler whose tragic fate drives the film’s darkest turning point. The scenes that portray the unadulterated love of a parent juxtaposed with the horror of what Gage becomes when resurrected are both heart-wrenching and chilling. The impact this has on Louis establishes the moral quandary that drives the film’s narrative arc.

Moreover, the special effects employed in “Pet Sematary” add a thrilling layer of horror. The film utilises practical effects to bring the resurrected creatures to life, which, while at times may appear dated compared to contemporary CGI techniques, contribute to a tactile and genuine sense of dread. The visual representation of Church post-resurrection is a perfectly executed blend of the eerie and grotesque, making a lasting impact on viewers long after the story has concluded.

The film’s pacing is commendable, subtly building tension as the emotional stakes rise, leading to a climax that is both disturbing and thought-provoking. The pivotal scenes are punctuated with a score by Elliot Goldenthal that amplifies the tension but also evokes sadness, reinforcing the film’s thematic focus on loss. The chilling lullaby sung by young Ellie serves as a haunting refrain, lingering in the viewer’s mind and underscoring the film’s darker messages about love and loss.

Furthermore, “Pet Sematary” excels in delivering a moral lesson wrapped in horror. The film compels us to ponder what lengths one would go to in order to reclaim a loved one and the hidden costs associated with such actions. This reflection on the nature of life, death, and what lies beyond establishes a profound emotional resonance. Louis’s decision is built on the love for his son, yet the consequences of his actions illustrate the tragic repercussions of forsaking the natural order.

However, the film is not without its flaws. Some viewers may find moments of the film unsettling in ways that feel excessive, particularly in its portrayal of violence. The pacing does have a few slower moments, which may detract from the overall momentum, especially in the opening acts where the exposition unfolds. Nevertheless, these moments of reflection add depth to the characters and their relationships, making the inevitable horror all the more poignant.

Ultimately, what "Pet Sematary" accomplishes is a masterclass in horror filmmaking that prioritises emotional storytelling. It successfully intertwines the supernatural with deeply resonant themes of parental love, making it a multi-layered piece that elevates it above mere horror tropes. The film is a haunting reminder of the depths of human grief and the desperate desires that can lead us to dark places.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Pet Sematary" remains a compelling piece of cinema that offers much more than typical horror fare. It tackles the complexities of love and loss with a grace that is both heartbreaking and chilling. With strong performances, effective storytelling, and a haunting atmosphere, it is a film that resonates on multiple levels. For those intrigued by the interplay of horror with psychological depth, “Pet Sematary” (1989) is an essential watch.

Score: 8.5/10

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