This movie has been out for a while, but we finally got a copy from Netflix last weekend.A thriller/suspense movie with some supernatural elements, the story centers around a series of child disappearances set in the 1970s. I won't say much for than that, since these movies tend to work their best with minimal knowledge going into them. The acting is mostly solid, with some of the children's performances feeling real and natural, especially Mason Thames, who portrays the main character, Finney. And Ethan Hawke's role is quite memorable, greatly enhanced by the fantastic masks that were a collaboration of director Scott Derrickson, horror makeup mastermind Tom Savini, fabricator Jason Baker, and his brother-in-law Levi Simpson.The story is actually pretty good for horror, not simply a plot filled with jump scares (although it does include some pretty effective ones), but it also touches upon some other themes, and is well-thought out. Adapted from a story by Joe Hill, it certainly shares some traits from his famous father's works, and I mean that as a genuine complement.This is another movie set in the 1970s, a time period we've seen used extensively this year, and we're treated to another solid job of setting this in that bygone era. Those of us that grew up during those years will find plenty of things to remind us of what things were like back then, and how we were largely ignorant of the dangers that could have been lurking around neighborhood corners.The picture quality of the Blu-ray looked great, matching the tone of the movie. The soundtrack is just 7.1, but even so, it was filled with effective ambiance, and off-screen cues. I would imagine that an Atmos version is even better, but I didn't find this one lacking in any way.This is a movie I'll be adding to my buy list and will watch again in the future. Recommended for fans of horror and suspense.Scott
Scott,I didn't request this one for review because there was no way in hell my wife would watch it with me. Glad you thought it was good. David
My wife is not a fan of horror films at all, although she will indulge me during the Halloween season and occasionally throughout the year. In exchange, I'll sit through just about any animated movie she wishes to see.She would agree that this is more of a thriller/suspense movie than pure horror, and she ended up enjoying it almost as much as I did. It's not heavy on gore, and actually has a bit of an arc for the main character. It was nice to see kids actually act like kids for a change, and not just little adults.
I'll have to give it a try at some point. I'm fine with thriller/suspense, as long as there isn't too much blood and gore.
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