Movie Review: The Amityville Horror (1979)
Synopsis
"The Amityville Horror," released in 1979 and directed by Stuart Rosenberg, is a horror classic that draws upon the reputed supernatural events surrounding the infamous Amityville house in New York. The film follows the Lutz family—George, Kathy, and their three children—as they move into a beautiful but menacing home, completely unaware of the horrific history that permeates its very walls.
Upon entering the house, the Lutz family soon begins to experience a series of bizarre occurrences. George (James Brolin), the father, becomes increasingly erratic and obsessed with the house, while Kathy (Margot Kidder), his wife, grapples with strange visions and the supernatural forces at play. As the atmospheric tension builds, the family’s idyllic life unravels, leading to terrifying manifestations of rage and violence. The spirits residing in the house make their malevolent presence known, resulting in a battle for the family’s safety and sanity.
The film is styled as a blend of psychological horror and traditional fright, often tapping into themes of familial bonds, doubt, and the unknown. Based on Jay Anson’s 1977 book of the same name, "The Amityville Horror" remains a famous and controversial rendition of supposed real-life hauntings, igniting debates regarding authenticity in horror storytelling.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- James Brolin as George Lutz
- Margot Kidder as Kathy Lutz
- Rod Steiger as Father Delaney
- Helen Shaver as Lisa
- Megan Ward as Amy Lutz
- Nicolas Bechtel as Matt Lutz
- Kirk Calloway as Greg Lutz
- John J. York as Police Officer
- Philip Baker Hall as the Priest
Review
"The Amityville Horror" is often lauded as the film that brought the ghost story firmly into the realm of the modern era of horror cinema. It effectively weaves supernatural scares with genuine emotional turmoil, showcasing the decline of a family’s happiness amidst external and internal horrors. One of the film’s strengths is its slow-burn storytelling; it allows viewers to gradually feel the unsettling atmosphere surrounding the Lutz family, rather than resorting to jump scares or overt horror tropes early on.
James Brolin delivers a compelling performance as George Lutz, encapsulating the character’s declining mental state as the house seems to exert its influence over him. Brolin’s portrayal captures the gradual descent into paranoia and anger, portraying a man pushed to the edge by forces he cannot comprehend. His interactions with his family become increasingly strained as he succumbs to the darkness of the property, reflecting the film’s deeper commentary on the fragility of the family unit when faced with external pressures.
Margot Kidder also shines as Kathy Lutz; she embodies the role of a concerned mother and wife with grace and intensity. Kidder’s character provides the necessary emotional anchor, grappling with the growing tension and chaos around her while desperately trying to keep her family together. The dynamic between Brolin and Kidder is perhaps one of the film’s most powerful elements. The two actors create an evocative portrait of love marred by supernatural dread, encapsulating viewers in their plight.
Rod Steiger’s portrayal of Father Delaney adds an authoritative gravity to the narrative. As the priest who attempts to assist the Lutz family, he brings depth to the story by providing a link to the film’s exploration of faith amidst fear. His character serves as a representative of hope, but also as a reminder of the overwhelming evil that lurks within the walls of the Amityville house.
Stuart Rosenberg’s direction heightens the dread present in the narrative, which is further amplified by the film’s atmospheric cinematography and unsettling sound design. The cinematography, courtesy of Fred J. Koenekamp, establishes an eerie visual palette, using shadows and angles to suggest the looming presence of malevolence. The famed "red eyes" linger in long shots, invoking the looming threat of the supernatural that hangs over the family.
What sets "The Amityville Horror" apart from other supernatural films of its era is its approach to themes of domesticity. The Lutz family represents the quintessential American dream, living in a picturesque house, yet they are ultimately undone by unseen forces that tear it apart. It cleverly juxtaposes the warmth of home life with chilling horror, ultimately asking viewers to ponder the safety of one’s sanctuary—what lurking horrors might reside beneath the surface? This theme continues to resonate, making the film timeless, even decades after its release.
The film does not shy away from the gory elements that one might expect in the horror genre, with certain sequences presenting disturbing images and situations that test the viewer’s fortitude. However, it’s the psychological tension that lingers long after the final credits roll. The intermingling of psychological disorder with tangible horror constructs a world where anxiety regarding one’s environment is amplified, and the audience is left questioning the nature of reality itself.
Despite the film’s strengths, it is not without its flaws. There are moments where pacing falters, particularly in the latter half, that result in a sense of repetitiveness. While the build-up is significant, the climax can feel rushed, with character arcs not thoroughly explored, especially those of the children. This might deter some viewers looking for a more comprehensive narrative.
Despite mixed critiques and arguments surrounding its factual basis, "The Amityville Horror" remains an important piece of horror history that continues to inspire adaptations, discussions, and, importantly, spinoffs. The blend of the uncanny with the ordinary, alongside strong performances and effective direction, has secured its place as a staple in the horror genre.
In conclusion, "The Amityville Horror" offers viewers a compelling look into the nature of fear, the fragility of family, and the terrifying unknown. The combination of James Brolin’s gripping performance with Margot Kidder’s nuanced portrayal of a desperate mother creates a film that resonates with audiences on multiple levels. While it may have some pacing issues and evoke debate regarding its authenticity, its cultural impact on horror cinema is undeniable.
Score: 8/10
