Review of Drag Me to Hell (2009) by David L — 10 Feb 2013

I have put off watching this for ages as thought it was just gonna be another one of those supernatural thrillers with random ghosts jumping out from everywhere, and some over the top director showing off with what special effects he can arrange.

I wasn't totally wide of the mark, but I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed this one, which is a rarity when it comes to a concept revolving around haunting spirits, and witchcraft. It had a somewhat light hearted humour running throughout though which added entertainment to what was already a good standard jumpy horror movie.

It follows a young girl who refuses a gypsy woman a loan, partly because she was already in debt to the bank, and partly because she needed to show her authority at making tough decisions in light of her recent opportunity for a promotion.

Having been 'shamed' the old lady then curses the girl, which unless she can then find a way or reversing it, will give her three days of living nightmares before finally dragging her down into hell! When I put it like that, it sounds completely ridiculous but this is a very credible movie and genuinely terrifying in certain places.

By now I thought I had mastered the art of anticipating when the jumps arrive but I seemed to be caught out here. I was never bored at any point during this, probably because I was always a little on edge, but the storyline flowed well throughout and I was eagerly anticipating how it was all going to end! Thankfully, I wasn't left disappointed and despite now thinking back to what was admittedly a very unrealistic conclusion to a far fetched plot, it somehow just worked perfectly for the style of this film.

It's very gory, very modern, very scary, and yet very funny - a somewhat unique and memorable addition to the horror genre.