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.

Hassan Zee has a new horror film called "House of Temptation". It's a film about one man's conflict of faith and the temptations of a house of horrors. My favorite characters were the main priest, Jeremiah and Maya. I liked Jeremiah and watching him deal with his inner conflict and Maya was a delightfully wicked character. Actress Jena Hunt was recently seen in Falling Uphill (another Bay Area feature film) and it was entertaining seeing her play a completely different character. Quite a range. Without revealing too much, the film has nice twists and I liked how the main family's story was left open-ended. I prefer it when the filmmakers leave it open to the audience to decide what happens next. Overall, a nice change of pace from the usual generic slashers and found footage that makes up much of horror cinema these days.

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.

House of Temptation is not what it at first appears. This film is actually full of fun surprises. With some particularly strong performances from Jena Hunt as Maya, and Julian Larach as Johnnie, House of Temptation takes its characters on a mysterious journey that is much more personal and poignant than one would expect from an ordinary horror flick. Director, Hassan Zee, is not one to let camp get in the way of a human story. Rather than going for cheap scares, Zee focuses on the breakdown of a family in a surprisingly intimate way through the eyes of their teenage son. I wish more big budget Hollywood films could be this personal. Looking forward to seeing what Doc Zee does next!

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."