I love all the old classic horror movies from the 80's that relied on suspense and a good story rather than gore or special effects. Films like Amityville, Poltergeist and The Exorcist will still have me hiding behind a cushion far more than any of the modern day offerings that are awash with buckets of fake blood and computer wizardry.
The Possession reminded me of these old-style horror movies because it relies on a good story to keep you interested. It doesn't actually show anything that scary or horrible (which is why it's only a 15 rating), it's all psycholgical and even if the story isn't amazingly original, it still kept me glued to the screen for the entire duration.
In this film, the evil spirit is contained in a wooden box that hapless teen Em picks up at a yard sale, totally unaware that it contains a dibbuk, a dislocated spirit that inhabits and ultimately devours its human host. Her worried parents watch her behaviour becoming erratic and go all out to conquer the evil spirit, despite accusations of child abuse or concerns that their recent divorce is at the root of the problem.
It's interesting to note that the film is based on a true story, which makes it even creepier. I won't be letting the girls watch it for a few years yet but, knowing that they haven't seen any of the older classic horror movies, I'm sure they'll find it groundbreaking and totally brilliant. Any children of the 70's and 80's who loved those older films will love the retro-style story though - personally, I loved it !
star rating : 4.5/5
RRP : £14.50
- Actors: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Kyra Sedgwick, Natasha Calis
- Classification: 15
- Studio: Lions Gate Home Entertainment UK Ltd
- DVD Release Date: 21 Jan 2013
- Run Time: 92 minutes
Disclosure : I received a preview disc in order to write an honest review.
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I generally prefer more cerebral horror like this sounds - might have to check it out!
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