nromanosky

Even though this film is cheesey and uber-low budget, it's not too bad. Although many of the scenes are more than shades of The Exorcist, Omen, Carrie, and The Fury, there are some unique moments that gave me the shivers (such as the snake-and-rats scene and when Cathy appears and disappears before her mother on the steps). The low-budget, grainy film quality and super cheesey "score" are at the same time distracting and effective, and although the gore quotient is modest, it's gross fun when you get it. The editing and story are a little loose and sloppy at times, but not so much that you want to give up on the film. Sometimes, these weaknesses create an (I'm guessing) unintentional ambiguity that adds to the spooky fun.

In my world, haunted kids and (even more so) freaky-looking dolls are always the makings of a good horror film. This film has both in spades. I found it on Brentwood's "Possesion" 4-movie DVD set, which is a steal at $8. Don't expect winning performances or slick effects, but check it out if you want some good B horror movie fun.

A meaningful adaptation of David Leavitt's novel. The characters are a bit underdeveloped, but it makes you think of Hemingway's iceberg theory: sometimes you have to intuit to get to the essence of things.

The juxtaposition of the crane sequences with the linear narrative of the film are eerie and very moving, and the performances are well observed, overall. Plus the love scenes really make you realize the leg up that British TV has on its American counterpart--what a treat!

I'd love to see this screenplay adapted to the book's New York setting, but this version is none the worse for the change of location. Please see it if you can.

I just watched a 13-year-old taped-from-Bravo copy of this film, and let me tell you: it's a delight. Not only does it knowingly tap into the teenage experience of expanding cultural sensibilities, but it does so in a completely unpretentious and earnest way-- no John Hughes slapstick or over sentimentality here, just an honest portrayal of a pivotal friendship.

The two female leads are excellent young actresses, and the soundtrack is really quite unique (think a more primitive version of the "Virgin Suicides" soundtrack by Air).

Plus, you can see what Alyssa Milano was doing before she rocketed to "Who's the Boss?" fame.

Check it out if you can.