Review of The People Under the Stairs (1991) by Jon C — 14 Dec 2012

This is slick and emotionally welcome entry from Wes Craven aside from his usual supernatural flare.

The plot focuses on an African American family one step away from poverty and living on the streets.

The young lead makes a deal with a man to score big on enough finances to save his home.

But of course, something darker and more mysterious is always going on.

Two sick, twisted con artists in a house with a girl they call their daughter put the child to the ultimate test.

The house is a damn good set piece being a huge puzzle/maze that our main protagonists crawl, sneak and hide in.

It also helps that there's a fair level of violence and gore knowing what this bad couple does in their spare time.

Really shockworthy stuff if you can manage.

Very tense, heart-poudning.

Wes Craven can still deliver the thrills and rawness.