Movie Review: The Sentinel (1977)
Synopsis
"The Sentinel," directed by Michael Winner and based on the novel by Jeffrey Convitz, is a horror film that delves into themes of isolation, mental instability, and the supernatural. The narrative revolves around a young woman named Alison Parker, portrayed by Cristina Raines, who, seeking a new lease on life, decides to move into a gothic Brooklyn brownstone apartment. Despite the building’s ominous history, Alison is drawn to its mysterious charm.
Settling into her new home, Alison is soon confronted by a series of inexplicable and troubling occurrences. As her grasp on reality begins to slip, she becomes increasingly aware of the sinister presence lurking within the building. This malevolence is emboldened by the building’s bizarre inhabitants, including a blind priest (John Carradine) who serves as a sentinel, guarding a terrible secret concerning the very foundation of Alison’s new home.
As the film progresses, Alison discovers that not only is she being watched by the building’s peculiar residents, but she is also part of a much larger and darker plot. The story unveils itself as a race against time for Alison to uncover the truth and protect her very soul from the demonic forces at play. The atmosphere thickens, and tension peaks as the final confrontation reveals the building’s true nature and Alison’s ultimate fate.
List of Actors and Their Characters
- Cristina Raines as Alison Parker
- Martin Sheen as Detective
- Ava Gardner as Jennifer (Alison’s neighbour)
- John Carradine as Father Halliran (the blind priest)
- Burgess Meredith as Mr. Channing
- Arthur Kennedy as Dr. Eliott
- Sylvia Sidney as Mrs. O’Hara
- Chris Sarandon as the enigmatic and sinister character
- Lee Grant as Lisa (the detective’s colleague)
Review
"The Sentinel" stands as a quintessential example of 1970s horror cinema, amalgamating elements of psychological thriller with supernatural dread. From the moment the film opens, it lures the viewer into an atmosphere thick with suspense, underscored by Winner’s deft direction and the film’s striking cinematography. The visual representation of the brownstone becomes an essential component of the film’s storytelling—a character of its own, with dark corners and haunting spacial compositions that evoke feelings of both curiosity and fear.
Cristina Raines’ portrayal of Alison Parker is commendable. She convincingly navigates her character’s descent into paranoia and despair, eliciting the audience’s empathy as she grapples with her increasingly fractured reality. Her character’s vulnerability is juxtaposed against the ominous forces that populate her new environment, heightening the tension as she transforms from a hopeful new tenant into a prey for the building’s evil.
Martin Sheen’s role as the detective adds a solid layer of intrigue, encapsulating the film’s broader themes of investigation and revelation. Sheen imbues his character with credibility and a hint of desperation, which serves the narrative well as he attempts to piece together Alison’s plight. The supporting cast, including the legendary Ava Gardner as Jennifer, enriches the film with performances that balance eccentricity with realism. Gardner’s portrayal of the mysterious and enigmatic neighbour enhances the film’s atmosphere of unpredictability while reinforcing Alison’s expanding isolation.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing moments of tension to build organically. Rather than relying solely on jump scares, "The Sentinel" cultivates a profound sense of impending dread. The sound design plays a pivotal role, with ambient noises and an eerie score that augment the film’s unsettling vibe. The building itself, with its labyrinthine hallways and shadowy corners, serves as a tangible metaphor for Alison’s mind unraveling, reflecting her turmoil as she fights against the forces that threaten to consume her.
Thematically, "The Sentinel" explores the conflict between good and evil, particularly through the lens of faith and despair. Father Halliran, played by John Carradine, embodies the struggle of maintaining faith in the face of undeniable darkness. His character serves not only as an observer but also as a guardian, attempting to protect Alison while grappling with his own limitations. This dynamic raises questions about the nature of belief and the existential battle against malevolent forces, both external and internal.
Visually, the film is striking, utilising a palette that shifts from muted tones to oppressive darkness. The cinematography by Richard H. Kline captures the beauty and decay of the building, enhancing the gothic horror aesthetic that permeates "The Sentinel." The choice of using long takes and static shots amplifies the sense of voyeurism that is central to the narrative, as the viewer is invited to lose themselves within the confines of the apartment.
Despite its strengths, "The Sentinel" is not without its flaws. Some may find the narrative pacing uneven, particularly as it meanders through various plot points without extreme urgency. Additionally, certain character arcs—such as those of the secondary tenants—are not fully developed, leaving them somewhat one-dimensional. Nevertheless, these shortcomings do not fundamentally detract from the overall effectiveness of the film. The unravelling mystery, the cinematic aesthetics, and the palpable atmosphere of horror largely overshadow such minor grievances.
As the film reaches its climax, the revelation of Alison’s fate unfolds in a heart-wrenching and horrifying manner, perfectly encapsulating the horror genre’s penchant for unexpected twists. The finale brings a cathartic yet disturbing resolution, compelling the audience to confront the harsh realities of sacrifice, evil, and isolation. It is a testament to the film’s ability to shock and disturb, a mark of its success within the genre.
In conclusion, "The Sentinel" is a haunting exploration of darkness cloaked in the guise of a psychological horror thriller. Through masterful direction, compelling performances, and a rich atmosphere, it effectively unravels the very fabric of sanity and spiritual strife. While it may not be the horror film for everyone, it undeniably leaves a lasting impression on those willing to journey into its enigmatic depths.
Score: 7.5/10.
A commendable entry in 1970s horror cinema, "The Sentinel" will captivate audiences with its atmospheric tension and chilling narrative, making it a worthy watch for horror enthusiasts and admirers of the genre’s rich history.
