Review of The Last House on the Left (2009) by Paul J — 03 Feb 2011

A solid remake that is gripping and relentless. It may be lacking the overall impact that Craven's made (after all, there wasn't anything quite like the '72 version at that time) and there is a certain realism to Craven's that is both frightening for the audience and clearly for the cast and crew as well.

This new one doesn't have that terrifying "I'm in the hands of a maniac" feel. Still, it makes up for it by having a much stronger script, better actors (at least the parents) and characters we truly care about.

There's also more emotion invested in this newer version. However, surprisingly, they do cop out a bit and give us a happier ending. Ultimately, this is probably a "better" film than Craven's version but as far as true HORROR goes, the original is infinitely more effective.

And if you want great cinema, skip both of these and check out Bergman's Virgin Spring - the true original.