POLTERGEIST RETROSPECTIVE

---

November 13, 2023|Horror Reviews , Supernatural and Paranormal

Fans of horror movies, rejoice! The upcoming Poltergeist Retrospective event is just what you need to satisfy your craving for thrills and chills. This retrospective will involve watching and reviewing each of the Poltergeist installments, including the original film and its sequels, as well as the 2015 remake.

For those unfamiliar with the Poltergeist franchise, the original 1982 film follows the Freeling family, who are haunted by malevolent spirits after their youngest daughter is abducted by them. The film was a critical and commercial success, leading to two sequels, Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986) and Poltergeist III (1988). In 2015, a remake was released, which updated the story for a modern audience.

This retrospective will provide an opportunity to examine each of the Poltergeist films in depth. We will start with the original film, which is widely considered a horror classic and a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre. From there, we will move on to the sequels, which have a mixed reputation among fans and critics. Finally, we will watch the remake, which presents a new take on the story and characters.

Throughout the retrospective, we will be providing detailed reviews of each film. We will examine the plot, characters, scares, and overall quality of each movie. We will also consider how the films have aged over time and whether they still hold up as horror classics.

One of the most interesting aspects of this retrospective will be the opportunity to compare and contrast the original film with its sequels and remake. We will examine how each film approaches the story of the Freeling family and their battle against supernatural forces. We will also consider how each film reflects the time in which it was made and whether it has relevance for modern audiences.

Overall, the Poltergeist Retrospective promises to be a must-watch event for horror fans. It will provide a comprehensive look at one of the most iconic horror franchises of all time and offer insights into how the genre has evolved over the years. If you're looking for a spooky thrill, be sure to tune in and join us for this bone-chilling journey into the world of Poltergeist.

November 14, 2023|Horror Reviews , Supernatural and Paranormal

As the sun sets and the darkness envelops the sky, a family in an affluent suburb settles into their new home. The Freeling family has just moved into their dream house, built in a neighborhood spearheaded by their patriarch, Steve. The family is tight-knit, and their relationships seem tangible and warm, but something sinister lingers in their idyllic home. When the youngest daughter, Carol Anne, begins communicating with an unseen presence, the Freeling family descends into a nightmare beyond their comprehension. What follows is a balancing act of awe and fear of the unknown, leaving the audience captivated by the timeless classic of horror cinema - Poltergeist.

Poltergeist, directed by Tobe Hooper and co-written and produced by Steven Spielberg, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year with a newly remastered Blu-Ray release. The movie follows the Freeling family, who move into a comfortable home in an affluent suburb, constructed by the company Steve works for, a project he spearheaded himself.

The film stars JoBeth Williams and Craig T. Nelson as Diane and Steve Freeling, respectively, and their three children: teenage Dana, 8-year-old Robbie, and little 5-year-old Carol Anne, played by Heather O’Rourke. The movie may have been made over 40 years ago, but its ability to scare is just as strong as it was back then. Besides being a horror film that does not lack any shock or fear value, Poltergeist maintains a strong central plot, with tangible character relationships keeping the structure tight.

One night, the family is awoken by Carol Anne having a conversation with the static television. When she announces “They’re here,” the rest of the family has no idea what they’re in for. Furniture moves, the family dog barks at people who aren’t there, and the weather gets stormier and stormier. Just when things seem to be as extreme as they can get, the haunting presence takes Carol Anne into another dimension, setting the family on a desperate mission to get her back, but they need help from people with this kind of experience.

Enter Dr. Lesh, played by Beatrice Straight, and her two assistants who camp out in the house with the family to try to document the paranormal presence and figure out how they can save Carol Anne. They ascertain that this is not a traditional “haunting” but a “poltergeist” holding Carol Anne hostage. The mission proves to be beyond their abilities, and so they call in the clairvoyant Tangina Barrons, played by Zelda Rubinstein, to save Carol Anne and eradicate the spirits.

Besides being a horror film, Poltergeist knows it has a strong script, and thus does not rely on any cheap scares. There are some jump scares, but they’re used sparingly and to great effect. This movie is regarded as a classic because it manages to focus on humanity rather than terror. Yes, there are some scares, and what the Freeling family faces is undoubtedly traumatic, but that’s not the central theme of the movie. 

What sets Poltergeist above a lot of cinema is its perfect balance of focusing on the fear and beauty of the unknown. There are times when the spirits haunting the home come into view, and the expressions of the characters are a mixture of utter terror and awestruck wonderment. Even Steve and Diane’s first reaction when they realize what is going on in their home isn’t fear, but excitement and intrigue. They are giddy at the thought of something so exciting and unknown coming into their middle-class, suburban home. This quality makes Poltergeist stand out compared to other horror films, which focus only on fear and the unknown.

The film is also significant because it laid the groundwork for modern horror cinema. It set up themes and tropes resonant in current horror films, such as Paranormal Activity and The Conjuring. Elements like a family in a haunted house, paranormal investigators, and themes of the unknown resonate in all these films, highlighting the enduring influence of Poltergeist.

Although the movie may seem to some like a family drama, there is plenty of horror in it. There is a particularly visceral body horror scene in the middle of the movie that sets the tone for what's to come. The final 20 minutes are especially intense, and it's undoubtedly horror. Perhaps it's due to its focus on family dynamics in times of crisis, or maybe it's the fact that it doesn't try to explain the unknown. Either way, Poltergeist deserves to be celebrated, now more than ever.

In conclusion, Poltergeist stands as a paramount horror film that has stood the test of time. Its ability to balance fear and beauty of the unknown is remarkable. It's a horror movie with a heart that doesn't rely on cheap scares. It's a classic that has impacted and influenced modern horror cinema and has become a blueprint for modern filmmakers. It's a significant investment for horror lovers, and it is a must-watch for anyone who loves a great story. Highly recommended!

4 out of 5 stabs 🔪🔪🔪🔪
FINAL THOUGHTS: In conclusion, Poltergeist stands as a timeless horror film that balances the fear and beauty of the unknown. It has influenced and paved the way for modern horror cinema, making it a must-watch for any fan of the genre. Highly recommended!

November 15, 2023|Horror Reviews , Supernatural and Paranormal

Poltergeist II: The Other Side (1986) is an often overlooked horror film that deserves more recognition and praise. While it may not have achieved the same level of critical acclaim as its predecessor, Poltergeist (1982), it still delivers genuine scares, a compelling story, and a talented cast.

One of the reasons why I believe Poltergeist II is an underrated gem is because it successfully expands on the story of the original film. Rather than simply rehashing the same plot, the filmmakers took the opportunity to delve deeper into the spiritual elements of the story. The entire Freeling family (minus Dana, and we will discuss that later) is once again confronted by malevolent forces from the other side, but this time, the stakes are higher. The film explores themes of possession and the struggle between good and evil, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.

What sets Poltergeist II apart from other horror sequels is its excellent character development. The audience becomes emotionally invested in the Freelings, making their experiences with the supernatural all the more intense. The film successfully captures the essence of family dynamics, showing the strength and determination of a family faced with unimaginable horrors.

The cast of Poltergeist II is exceptional, with returning actors Craig T. Nelson and JoBeth Williams reprising their roles as Steve and Diane Freeling. Their performances are nuanced and convincing, portraying the fear and resilience of parents fighting to protect their children. The addition of Will Sampson as Taylor, a spiritual Native American, brings a unique and mystical element to the film. Sampson's presence adds depth to the story, and his interactions with the Freeling family provide a deeper understanding of the supernatural occurrences.

However, it is Julian Beck's portrayal of the sinister Reverend Kane that truly steals the show. Despite battling stomach cancer during filming, Beck delivers a chilling performance that leaves a lasting impression. His creepy demeanor and menacing presence make him a truly terrifying antagonist. The fact that he was facing his own mortality while bringing this character to life adds an eerie layer to his performance.

Poltergeist II also deserves praise for its effective use of horror elements. The film contains numerous suspenseful and terrifying scenes that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From the ghostly apparitions to the grotesque manifestations of evil, the horror sequences are meticulously crafted to elicit genuine fear. The visual effects, though dated by today's standards, still hold up surprisingly well and contribute to the film's overall sense of dread.

It's important to note that Poltergeist II should not be compared to its predecessor; it should be appreciated as a standalone film that builds upon the foundation laid by the original. While it may not have the same impact or cultural significance, it is still a commendable sequel that offers its own unique take on the supernatural horror genre.

In conclusion, Poltergeist II: The Other Side is an underrated horror film that deserves more recognition. Its compelling story, strong character development, and effective use of horror elements make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. Don't let the lower scores on Rotten Tomatoes deter you from experiencing this chilling and underrated gem. Give it a chance, and you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by the scares and thrills that await.

3 out of 5 stabs 🔪🔪🔪
FINAL THOUGHTS: Poltergeist II: The Other Side is an underappreciated horror sequel that delivers genuine scares, a compelling story, and a talented cast. Don't let its initial reception dissuade you; give this film a chance and discover the chilling surprises it has in store.

November 16, 2023|Horror Reviews , Supernatural and Paranormal

Darkness descends as we venture into the haunting realm of "Poltergeist III," a bone-chilling journey that delves into the depths of terror. In this retro review, we dare to revisit the malevolent forces that lurk beyond the veil, lurking within the netherworld of the supernatural. Brace yourself as we step into the sinister world where twisted reflections hold secrets and demonic souls seek their vengeful salvation. With each pulse-quickening moment, be prepared to be consumed by a sense of foreboding and unease. As the shadows lengthen and eerie whispers fill the air, we enter the realm of "Poltergeist III," a nightmare that will leave you trembling in its wake.

In this reflective review, we take a step back many years to revisit "Poltergeist III," the third installment in the classic and notorious horror franchise. For many fans, this film holds a special place in their hearts, and it remains a beloved and terrifying addition to the series. 

"Poltergeist III" introduces us to a new setting as young Carol Anne Freeling (played by the late Heather O'Rourke) is sent to live with her aunt Pat (Nancy Allen), uncle Bruce (Tom Skerritt), and teenage cousin Donna (Lara Flynn Boyle) in the towering John Hancock Center in Chicago. Uncle Bruce is also the manager of the building. Carol Anne now attends a school for the gifted, where she is known as "creepy" and often faced with questions from her peers about whether she has seen any ghosts lately. Carol Anne, however, brushes off these inquiries and has convinced herself that talking about the past will only make it happen again. 

Unfortunately, one of Carol Anne's teachers, Dr. Seaton, believes her to be a troublemaker and manipulator, and he goads her into talking about her previous experiences with the supernatural. Little does Carol Anne know that by doing so, she opens the door for the malevolent spirit known as Kane to find her once again. As the nightmare resumes, the John Hancock Center becomes the primary battleground for a battle between good and evil, as fog, breaking mirrors, ice, elevator death scenes, and plenty of gore take center stage.

One of the strongest aspects of "Poltergeist III" lies in its imagery. From the striking imagery of lightning over the John Hancock Center to the cracking and shattering floor-to-ceiling mirrors throughout the building, the film creates a chilling and atmospheric experience. The twisted and demented faces of Kane's victims, appearing as reflections in the mirrors, further add to the horror.

The performances in "Poltergeist III" are also noteworthy. Heather O'Rourke delivers a powerful performance as Carol Anne, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of the character. Her tragic passing shortly after filming adds an extra layer of poignancy to her portrayal. Zelda Rubenstein reprises her role as Tangina, the quirky and wise medium who aids Carol Anne in her battles against the supernatural. Rubenstein brings her unique charm and memorable screen presence to the character once again.

Despite the film not receiving the same level of critical acclaim as its predecessors and only earning $14 million against a $9.5 million budget, "Poltergeist III" still holds a special place in the hearts of many horror fans. It received mixed reviews and currently sits with a lone 1-star rating on Rotten Tomatoes, but its passionate following proves that it has found its audience.

However, it's important to acknowledge the tragedy that occurred shortly after filming "Poltergeist III." The premature death of Heather O'Rourke, who played Carol Anne in all three films, cast a somber shadow over the production. Heather, had a promising career ahead of her. Her passing at the age of 12, due to sepsis caused by a bowel blockage, was a shock and a devastating loss to the industry. It adds an undeniable weight to the film and the franchise as a whole.

"Poltergeist III" also faced the challenge of recasting the character of Kane. Julian Beck, who brought a chilling presence to the role in "Poltergeist II," had passed away from stomach cancer. Nathan Davis steps into the role, bringing his own interpretation and terror to the character. The franchise's string of deaths and odd accidents over the years has led to the infamous "Poltergeist Curse," a topic explored in Shudder's "Cursed Films" series.

"Poltergeist III" may not have achieved the same level of success as its predecessors, but it continues to provide scares, gore, and a little bit of big-city fun. Its chilling imagery, haunting performances, and atmospheric setting make it a worthy addition to the horror genre. If you're feeling brave, you can stream "Poltergeist III" for free on Tubi, Pluto TV, and the Roku Channel. Just remember, sometimes it's best to watch and not talk about it, just in case.

As our journey through the nightmarish corridors of "Poltergeist III" comes to an end, the echoes of fear and dread linger in our minds. This chilling installment in the iconic horror franchise reminds us that even in the deepest recesses of our existence, evil can find a way to claw its way back into our lives. The unforgettable imagery, haunting performances, and unsettling atmosphere have left an indelible mark on our souls. "Poltergeist III" may have been overlooked by some, but its ability to unleash terror and tap into our darkest fears remains undeniable. So, dear brave souls, as you turn off the lights and settle into the safety of your world, remember to keep one eye over your shoulder, for you never know when the specters of the past may come knocking at your door once more. Sweet dreams. Or, perhaps, not so sweet after all...

4 out of 5 stabs 🔪🔪🔪🔪
FINAL THOUGHTS: "Poltergeist III" may not have garnered the same acclaim as its predecessors, but its chilling imagery, solid performances, and atmospheric setting make it a worthwhile addition to the horror genre. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, its enduring legacy and dedicated fan base prove that sometimes, under the radar gems can still hold their own in the haunted halls of cinema.

November 17, 2023|Horror Reviews , Supernatural and Paranormal

The 2015 remake of Poltergeist falls short of capturing the supernatural horror that made the original so iconic. Despite attempts to inject modern twists and jump scares into the familiar story, the film lacks originality and fails to live up to the terrifying legacy of its predecessor. Directed by Gil Kenan and produced by Sam Raimi's Ghost House Pictures, the film follows the Bowen family as they move into what seems like their dream home, only to be plagued by strange and unsettling occurrences. While the performances are decent, the lack of character development and rushed storytelling leave the audience feeling detached and uninvested. Technically, the film is serviceable, but the CGI ghosts lack the realism and impact of the original's practical effects. Overall, Poltergeist (2015) is a disappointing and forgettable experience that pales in comparison to the 1982 classic.

Poltergeist (2015) is a lackluster remake that falls short of the original 1982 classic. Despite its attempts to inject some modern twists and jump scares into the familiar story, it ultimately fails to capture the same supernatural horror that made the original film so iconic.

Directed by Gil Kenan and produced by Sam Raimi's Ghost House Pictures, the film follows the Bowen family as they embark on a new chapter in their lives by moving into what seems like their dream home. However, as soon as they settle in, strange and unsettling incidents begin to occur. Lights flicker, objects move on their own, and their youngest daughter, Madison, becomes the target of a group of angry and vengeful spirits, drawing her into the hidden depths of the closet.

While the remake attempts to incorporate modern elements such as smartphones and drones, it heavily relies on the same haunting ideas that made the original film so memorable. The haunted tree, snowy TV sets, and eerie closet all make a reappearance, but without adding anything new or groundbreaking to the story. As a result, what should have been a fresh take on the classic tale ends up feeling repetitive and derivative.

The performances in Poltergeist are generally decent, with Sam Rockwell stealing the show as the goofy and stressed-out father. His charisma and comedic timing bring some much-needed levity to the film. Jared Harris also shines as a pseudo-celebrity ghost chaser, infusing his character with personality and humor. However, the rest of the cast, including Rosemarie DeWitt and the children, have little to do and feel underdeveloped.

One of the film's major shortcomings is its lack of character development and rushed storytelling. With a runtime that is 20 minutes shorter than the original, the remake moves at a breakneck pace, leaving little room for the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level. As a result, the emotional impact and tension that should have been integral to the narrative are sadly absent, leaving the viewer feeling detached and uninvested.

Technically, Poltergeist is serviceable, with decent production values and satisfactory special effects. However, the CGI ghosts lack the same realism and impact of the original film's practical effects, which somehow made the supernatural elements more convincing and terrifying. The filmmakers missed an opportunity to bring something fresh and innovative to the material, instead opting for a more generic and forgettable approach.

In conclusion, Poltergeist (2015) fails to live up to the terrifying legacy of the original. While it attempts to recreate the scares with a modern twist, the lack of originality and character development make it a disappointing and forgettable experience. Although it may attract those unfamiliar with the original film, fans of the 1982 classic are likely to find this remake lacking the timeless horror that made the original a true masterpiece.

3 out of 5 stabs 🔪🔪🔪
FINAL THOUGHTS: Poltergeist (2015) is a mixed bag that falls short of the terrifying legacy of the original. While it attempts to inject some modern twists and jump scares into the familiar story, it lacks the same supernatural horror and originality, ultimately resulting in a forgettable experience. However, the decent performances, particularly from Sam Rockwell and Jared Harris, and satisfactory technical elements make it worth a watch for those unfamiliar with the original film.