Review of Ouija: Origin of Evil (2016) by Spencer K — 31 Oct 2016

"Do you know what it feels like to be strangled to death"?

When I first heard that there would be a sequel (or prequel) to the 2014 film, Ouija, I laughed and rolled my eyes. The first Ouija is an atrocious film and one that I hated very much. When Mike Flanagan was announced as director, I became a little more interested, and then the trailers hit and I was covered in doubt again. Upon hearing first reactions were very positive, I was interested, but cautious. However, I am definitely glad I checked this one out. This films does a complete 360 from its horrendous first film and delivers a creepy, tense and effective little horror film. I would've never guessed this film would be as good as it was. It's definitely one of the most surprising films of 2016. What it does so effectively well, is that it deftly blends familial drama with some truly frightening scenes and damn, does it work. A big part of the reason it worked so well, is because of the performances. Elizabeth Reaser, and the two young girls here give excellent performances, and have wonderful chemistry together. The real standout here is the little girl who played Doris. she could've easily sunk this movie, but she carries it on her shoulders on her own and she's great. Mike Flanagan, the director, is immensely talented, and this film further proves that fact. Having this set in the 60's was a genius idea, which I contribute to Mr. Flanagan. I felt like I was in the 60's with the costumes and the set pieces and there were many times where the screen would like flicker in the corner, like it was filmed on actual film so it made it look like a classic horror film, which was fantastic. Flanagan knew what he wanted to do with this movie, and he made it with such craft and wit. Ouija Origin Of Evil is extremely creepy, often very chilling, well written, well acted, directed and created masterfully, and it's just a damn good horror film. Definitely check this one out!