Review of The Omen (1976) by Andrew B — 29 Jul 2012
The main problem with The Omen is that it does't seem entirely sure of what it wants to be. It alternates between proto-slasher killing sprees and slow, brooding thriller, never really gelling together.
To the film's credit it looks fantastic, and is bursting at the seams with great performances and imagery. Whilst the sound design is a little muddy, with dialogue being rendered nearly incomprehensible in places, Jerry Goldsmith's score is definitely among his best, although it sometimes becomes a little overbearing.
A significant issue is that perhaps the main attraction, the creepy demon child Damien is barely in the film, which is a shame because Harvey Stephens puts in a genuinely scary performance whenever he is on screen.
Thankfully the sequel would focus much more on him, rather than his victims. Something of a cult classic but frankly rather dull.
This review of The Omen (1976) was written by Andrew B on 29 Jul 2012.
The Omen has generally received positive reviews.
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