Review of Burnt Offerings (1976) by Chantal L — 24 Dec 2009

It's not really a film that sticks with you, taking a long time to get rolling. The acting is pretty solid, especially Bette Davis and Karen Black. There's something about Oliver Reeds performance, especially when he needs to act terrified, that bothers me. There is an underlying sub plot with him and his mother's funeral that doesn't really get explained. The house itself is beautiful, and I love the "Christine" aspect to it. The ending is certiainly the best part of the film, although it's still a bit random. My biggest issue with the film is that not enough is explained. It's a pro and con at the same time. It leaves room for the viewers imagination, but also leaves the viewer wondering what the directors motives were.

Overall it's a nice little supernatural thriller, worth viewing if you like old fashion haunted house stories.