Review of The Watcher in the Woods (1980) by Joel J — 12 Nov 2008
Though holding to a much stronger supernatural element, the best way I can describe this movie is a children's Friday the 13th. Really! What's strange is that both movies came out the same year too (1980). What's even stranger is that this is a Disney creation!! Trust me, Disney would not touch this movie with a ten foot pole this day and time - much less in 1980 when they weren't gearing films for adult audiences at all. The first person camera point of view and the wooded scenery are almost identicle - not to mention the Friday 13/Jaws theme music. For a movie that is obviously geared for an audience in the 9-13 range, this has some really creepy frickin' scenes, folks. The old English countryside home that the fim is shot around is breathtaking as well. An aging Bette Davis combines with Lynn-Holly Johnson to make this film watchable for all audiences, and a must see for every pre-teen that's getting that imaginative desire to be really spooked. The only thing that holds it back from being as solid as it could is the senselessly unexplained ending (really, really leaves you in the dark). I know I beat this into the ground, but if you have kids, this a great starting point around Halloween.
-6.
This review of The Watcher in the Woods (1980) was written by Joel J on 12 Nov 2008.
The Watcher in the Woods has generally received mixed reviews.
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