Review of The House of the Devil (2009) by Alex R — 22 Nov 2010

Hearing good things about The House Of The Devil on horror websites, I decide to check out the film for myself. The critics point of view of this film was that it was a return to form to classic horror films of the 1980's. Director Ti West knows how to build effective suspense, and The House Of The Devil is a terrific horror film. The whole film reeks of homage to the cheap Horror films of the 8o's and theres a constant B movie film feel to the movie that adds an awesome atmosphere to the overall picture. The actor that Ti West picked to play in this cool little piece of 80's horror homage are terrific.

Everyone involved are well chosen and are, for the most part horror icons. The film dwells on the subject of satanic cults and Sam, a babysitter is hired by a weird family to babysit a family member. The reality is more terrifying, and they plan to use her in a Satanic Ritual.

This film is quite original and is one of the best original horror films since The Devil's Rejects. The House Of The Devil is an homage of traditional of the 80's as it has the feel, and look of the 80's. Director Ti West went as far to film the film in 35 MM just to go the extra mile and get a retro look for his film. House Of The Devil steadily builds it's tension and the payoff is awesome, it has quite a terrific climax, which I won't reveal because I personally feel that this is the type of film that needs to be seen to be believed. An original story thats frightening and complimented with actors from horror films of the 80's Tom Noonan (Manhunter) and Dee Wallace (Cujo) make this film a true winner. A must watch!