Compared to a lot of the Horror movies today, many may find this story rather slow and feel that 'not a lot happens' But, for me personally, this is one of my favourite kinds of older Horror/Sci Fi films. I've always had a real soft spot in my heart for this particular one, so I may favour it more than most (I personally would have given it an '8', but I think people on average would probably not like it quite as much as I do, so I just gave it a '7' : )
The absolute standout in this movie is that it is ***ALL*** about Atmosphere and Mood. I thought the soundtrack was very effective too and adds a lot to the feel of the film. Also, I feel another thing that makes this movie appealing is the strong Mystery factor. I mean, even from the beginning you're wondering, 'What the hell is going on!'
I like the way it starts with the ancient Native American village and that really sets the tone for the entire story. The acting is nothing to get too worked up about, although good ol' Chuck Conners does a nice job with his role. The rest are okay, they get the job done, but no Oscars will be forthcoming, especially since it was made in 1989 :D
I really liked the increasing sense of Mystery and dread. Along with the people the audience gets the tension ratcheted up little by little as they begin to question their own perceptions and even they own sanity. There is not really very much in the way of special effects or anything super visual, it is really old-school that way. I also particularly like movies where they play with your sense of reality (and in this case the reality of the characters) where you are not quite sure as to what is real and what isn't. To me that adds an extra layer of suspense.
Actually, the reason why I say this is a 'Throwback' is because even though it is made in 1989, it still is strongly reminiscent of many of the Telefilms made around 1973 or thereabouts. And, this is most definitely a Telefilm. You can tell by the 4x3 framing (full screen) and the obvious breaks for commercials. So, as you likely know, it is VERY tough to make a truly effective Horror Telefilm, especially back at that time, with the limitations that come with television. Thus the reason I feel strongly that this movie is made very well and is quite effective for a Horror telefilm. In mood and atmosphere it kind of reminds me of another very effective and scary telefilm made in 1973 starring the great Eli Wallach and Robert Culp called 'A COLD NIGHT'S DEATH' Another outstanding example of the use of mood, atmosphere, and sound design to build to a pretty effective Horror movie - in that movie's case, it is more psychological, a tad more scary, and a bit better made, and of course with A-List actors.
So, I would say, don't go into this movie expecting a lot of action or effects or intense violence that is indicative of many of the Horror films today. But, like I mention in my title above, this is a nice old-fashioned throwback with I feel excellent atmosphere and mood, and just a little touch of Science Fiction. If you appreciate older, slower building films like this, then you might enjoy this one.
