House of Temptation

Since the dawn of motion pictures, people have used the medium to tell stories, stories of many genres and types, but the kind that has always been associated with is spirituality and faith, whether they were subtle or very straight forward. Stories not to be scowled or scoffed at, they speak to us a very deep fundamental level. The battle of good and evil, light and dark, and the relationship between God and man (and the fight for his soul). Whether we're talking about films like The Exorcist, The Rite, The Shawshank Redemption, Se7en or 8MM - They all tell tales of good (but ultimately flawed) characters who must fight for their souls, who must try to remain decent in the indecent and dark environments that surround them and torment them. These are the stories in motion pictures that are important to tell, the overtones (and undertones) that must be examined. Not just within the confines of the film, but examined within ourselves. That is what films, great films, do. They make us ask questions instead of provide us with answers. Through all the thrills and chills of House Of Temptation, at the core of it that is what this film does, as well as examine faith and family. When all is said and done, through all the supernatural and horror, all that is left at the end of the movie is faith and family, their road back to redemption and the road back into the light.

I like the way Director Dr. Zee found a way to make room for a more complex narrative. Where as many others supernatural thriller forgo character development, Director Zee used his actors to the fullest allowing room for a more complex tapestry to be woven.

Though the movie uses a contemporary device of cinema verite its also interestingly paced like a slow-burn thriller of yore, it keeps getting better.

The unique somewhat unexpected and surreal twists keep one wondering what will happen next; it was a refreshing addition to this genre. I wish Dr. Zee would make a follow up.

Lead actors Jenna Hunt's character Maya and Johnnie played by Julian Larach where complimented by a strong ensemble performance.

The movie is more of a suspense film than horror film. There are no jumping "boos" waiting in the corner to "get you". With that said, the story and plot are well written. The film is thought provoking. Overall the movie is well done. It was fun to watch. The writing is well though out. The movie is the perfect length and there is not one scene that is not necessary to the plot. The film is well edited and flows smoothly. The actors are good. I enjoyed the son's acting and thought that his performance is very good and realistic. The father's role is well acted. The evil temptress has a wonderful evil laugh, is pleasing to the eye and is perfect for the role. The other actors are good. I enjoyed everyone's performance. I enjoyed the camera work. I liked how the effects are real, not overdone and not over-the-top. I enjoyed the "message" of the film and how it is interwoven into the plot. I recommend this movie. Enjoy . . .

I was very much impressed all throughout the film with the presence of Maya. Jena's finesse brings the film to life, enhances the performances of the other actors, and helps them find their roles. I really enjoy Michael's performance as well. His entrance to the production rings of charm. From start to finish, he carries a swagger about him that attracts the viewers attention and locks them in to the unfolding plot. In his role as Aug, he displays a handsome energy that is impetuously magnetic in nature. As the pastor, Chris shines as evil progresses and develops itself through the infection of his community. I admire the message that Jeremiah stands for among his colleagues. I had thoughts to myself upon my first viewing of the film that said, "I agree. Bravo. This is very much real."

In House of Temptation, which was filmed in Bodega Bay in Northern California, Director Doc Zee uses the device of a teenager filming his family with his new video camera to bring the audience into the story and it the audience connected and engaged throughout.

The actors are given a wonderful vehicle in which to shine. Newcomer Julian Larach, who plays Johnnie, is a natural and the camera loves him. He is real find. Totally natural, totally relaxed, and totally believable.

Jena Hunt as the sexy lead is a gorgeous and talented actress. I look forward to seeing more of her work.

The suspense builds gradually and is sustained. One of the ghosts is a young boy who is clothed only in his underwear. It is odd, unseemly, and the result is that the audience starts to get very uncomfortable but doesn't really know why. And the action builds from there.