skyme

I second that user's review, which I quoted. Admittedly, the film has a strong production and effort. But the whole thing was a chore.

Remember it takes place 1990s. The film actually holds together pretty well, and is done with a lot of care and better than average acting & directing. In the end, it would have been a little more exciting, if it were more sexual (i know many bi navy guys that were very wild at this time in navy). Rob Mayes is very good looking. But overall, better than expected. ...some kind of secret was going on with one character, John Cokely...not sure what his conflicts were, but it was obvious he had them.

Absorbing, and well crafted horror film. If you looked into the 'real' story over the years, with great care, director James Wan touches on soooo much of the already documented research: The way the kids look/behave, Maurice the researcher, the constables, the way the townhouse is layed out and it's decaying condition - almost exactly like its event from the 1970s. Then, yes, he adds amped-up effects and situations (that didn't happen) to make a fun film and very aggressive.

Wan employs excellent, alluring cinematography with the situations, careful shadows, and kinetic editing that cares about his characters & sets up the wicked scares; you must watch this in widescreen or you miss a lot. Wan also takes his time, and some may complain about a few slow spots, but I enjoyed it. A strong film predominately b/c of the talented James Wan.