Review of The People Under the Stairs (1991) by Matthew C — 19 Oct 2013
While not the scariest of films, People Under the Stairs certainly has ample amounts of blood, guts, and gore as well as unexpected scares, creepy direction, and some out of their mind villains. I think Craven brings his usual spooky talent and vision to the film, but it's lost somewhat in the over the top performances of the cast, especially Adams and the two parents, McGill and Robie and a script which never gets beyond a certain scare.
On the other side, the performances are firing on all cylinders when the chase is on. The addition of "Prince" is great and the house serves as a great local for this serving of secrets and twisted familial care.
AJ Langer is a sweet inoocent girl who has your sympathy the entire time. She's a perfect damsel in distress. The parents are near perfect in their grotesque ways and Ving Rhames, Bill Cobbs, among others lend a certain weight to the film even though their screen time is limited.
Some choices at the end and in various dire moments were not the best in my opinion but overall this horror fest is quite good and worth the watch for the Craven fan or horror fan.
This review of The People Under the Stairs (1991) was written by Matthew C on 19 Oct 2013.
The People Under the Stairs has generally received positive reviews.
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