House of Temptation

A masterfully produced independent film that depicts the extreme polarities and dualities of life through a spiritual lens, exposing us to contrasting yet insightful experiences that can ultimately bring us together or keep us apart. The psychological thriller uses the elements of mystery, suspense and religion to tell a complex story about the blind spots of lust and power. The characterizations and the script are well thought out, however, the diverse themes limit character dimensionality.

The costumes, special effects including lighting and camera work are impressive and used in creative ways to depict mysticism that allows viewers to see certain scenes from the third eye of a medium. Overall, I really good independent film to view and add to your library.

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.

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."

I had the opportunity to meet the director (unknowing prior) who invited me to see the film. I through a series of conversations and sharing that horror is not really my genre of movies..was invited an opportunity to see. I found the movie to have a very heart felt piece to creating it. It felt very small scale (which is a perspective I enjoy) . The values and plot have depth in speaking about cult and supernatural and religious values and how they can shape our every day lives whether we realize or not. It had elements of suspense and references of other horror movies (found out later in Q/A and am aware horror movie buffs like that kind of aspect of homage being paid to other pieces). I will say the there was an interesting choice in character names as the family was devout Christian (though progressive) and Maya ( a Hindu reference ). I am also not easily surprised or pleasantly surprised. The way the camera was returned towards the end made me smile and left me hopeful.