Fear of the Dark

 My little sister, for no apparent reason, loves scaring herself (and she truly does get scared). We watched this film together (she cuddled with her boyfriend, and me making snide remarks as I slid off the couch) until she decided it was too scary, and shut her eyes.

Although none of the actors or actresses were at all recognizable, though the acting was certainly passable, this film had a big studio feel in the camera work (excepting a few amateurish moments), and some real skill went into the lighting (although I did notice a few rough spots). The special effects came across brilliantly in the eerie darkness.

The plot was likely not intended to do much more than build the opportunity to scare children. Although the monsters are real (proven by a kind of second-hand gimmick), the audience doesn't get the courtesy of any kind of explanation, which fact, although profoundly realistic, also reduces the story to a series of frightening moments held loosely together by family and romantic ties (no pun intended, but I'll take credit for it nonetheless). No psychological, supernatural, scientific, or mix thereof reasons present themselves for the boys' (self-?) torture. The audience exits the film wondering "what just happened?"

The score/soundtrack were probably badly chosen. In moments when silence would have enhanced fear, the audience hears loud rock music which actually reassured me several times. I felt "well, if we're supposed to build up our courage and energy, he isn't going to die." And depending on your audience, that may have been the intention.

Parents, this movie contains an instance of underage smoking and the occasional swearword, as well as some frightening images and scenes. Your children will probably be in bed with you tonight. On the other hand, they'll be too young to know how badly this film compares with so many others.