The Summoning

This was not the worst thriller I have ever seen, but it was very flawed, and moves very slowly without being particularly intriguing (I don't mind a slow burn if it is good). It begins with a rather interesting premise that is based on a true story - this could have been a really creepy movie. For starters, the lead actress was pretty bad. She showed so little emotion there were times she seemed mildly sedated. Secondly, they did not delve into the history of the theme - this could have been very creepy and had the makings of a great ghost story. Lastly, I found the ending unsatistying - not terrible, but an ending that many will see coming. Actually, I found the acting by Elbert Hill (the old maintenance man) to be superb, and I wish he had a larger role. Also, while Eric Roberts does not disappoint, his role was quite small. Four stars from me - had a great premise, but needed some tweaking, starting with the lead role.

Good god. Listen I'm all for the idea of DIY, labor-of-love thrillers, so I stand behind the idea of this film existing. But rarely does a labor of love feel so poorly tended to by its team. From subpar acting to cliché dialogue inside a messy script full of plot devices that go nowhere, The Summoning fails to realize that tension isn't assumed, it's crafted.

Did Roberts do this one as a favor? What's happening here? This one starts out horrible with actors who need more practice, or a director with a different vision. I couldn't get any further than the first minute or so.

Sure some parts of the story could have been stronger, but I enjoyed it over all. Learned a bit of history too. Reminded me of The Skeleton Key which starred Kate Hudson. Similar eerie type of film. Interesting that both take place in the South too. Could be that I skew towards classic horror films, but I did sense a bit of 70's style. Good job.

Just because you have an expensive camera doesn't mean your a director! Terrible, terrible , terrible directing. There is no horror or suspense just a dry eye monotone drama. This director has no business directing any movie of any kind! please kindly go back to the cubicle of wall street.