This film boasts one of the most chilling opening sequences I have ever seen on screen. Unlike most horror films where you see a murder happen within the first five minutes, to draw you in and give you that initial rush, this film does so in a much scarier way. To watch someone literally go through the motions of washing, and shaving and packing with his chilling calmness gets me every time. I managed to find the opening on Youtube, you can watch it safe that there are no spoilers, it's literally the opening of the film:
The film also has a great supporting cast, everyone is believable in their roles and the daughter is charming, though part of a questionable shower scene considering how old she is meant to be. Even with the remake, this film stands the test of time. Who out there hasn't ever wondering if their stepfather was a seriel killer? This film really is a forgotten gem. I see a lot of American Psycho in it, with a seemingly normal guy, who has it all, having these terrible urges.
I also like to view this film as a commentary on middle class suburban (particularly American) life. Everyone wants to be perfect with kids who behave and do well in school and you all sit around having block parties, but in the end you're all hiding your flaws, everyone has secrets! And that's just one of the things you're left to think about when the credits roll!
I watched this film for free with my LoveFilm subscription, I'm sure it's still up there. It's also available to buy on DVD, everywhere I imagine after the remake came out. The film also spawned a pretty good sequel 'The Stepfather II', though I would give 'The Stepfather III' a miss (probably because it lacks Terry O'Quinn)!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Please leave me a comment! They make my day xo