Review: Amityville 1992: It's About Time (1992)

If you're a fan of the Amityville series, you know that each sequel brings its own peculiar twist to the haunted house lore. Released in 1992, Amityville 1992: It's About Time stands out with its intriguing premise centered around a cursed clock. It's a film that continues the tradition of bizarre hauntings connected to the infamous Amityville Horror, while adding its own unique flavor to the mix. As a fellow collector, you might be curious whether this entry holds enough merit for your shelf.

Plot Summary

The story follows Jacob Sterling, an architect who returns home from a business trip with an antique clock he found in Amityville. Unbeknownst to him, the clock is possessed by a malevolent force that gradually wreaks havoc on his family. The narrative unfolds as the clock's sinister influence begins to distort time and reality within the household. As the family's grip on sanity loosens, they must confront the dark power of the clock and the horrific events it triggers. It's a creative spin that keeps the viewer guessing, without giving away too much too soon.

Performances

The performances in Amityville 1992: It's About Time are a mixed bag, which is often the case in horror films of this era. Stephen Macht takes on the role of Jacob Sterling with a certain gravitas, delivering a believable performance as the unwitting patriarch caught in the clock's curse. Shawn Weatherly, playing his girlfriend Andrea Livingston, brings a relatable vulnerability and determination to her role. Megan Ward and Damon Martin, who play Jacob's children, Lisa and Rusty, offer solid performances that help ground the supernatural chaos in a believable family dynamic. While some moments may feel over-the-top, the cast does a commendable job given the film's outlandish premise.

Direction and Craft

Directed by Tony Randel, known for his work on Hellbound: Hellraiser II, the film successfully captures the eerie atmosphere essential to any Amityville story. Randel's direction emphasizes the unsettling presence of the clock, using practical effects and creative camera work to convey its powers. The film manages to balance suspense with occasional bursts of horror, which is crucial for keeping the audience engaged. The special effects, typical of early '90s horror, may seem dated by today's standards but add a certain nostalgic charm. The production design, particularly the clock itself, is intricately detailed, giving the film an aesthetic that will appeal to fans of vintage horror.

Collector's Verdict

As a collector, you'll find Amityville 1992: It's About Time to be an interesting piece of horror history. The film may not be a standout in the genre, but it offers a unique take on the Amityville mythos that can be appreciated by fans of the series. In terms of physical media, the DVD release is the most accessible and provides a decent presentation of the film. While not particularly rare, it holds a certain charm for collectors of '90s horror or those dedicated to completing their Amityville collection. The film's uncommon status means it's not often discussed, making it a neat conversation piece for enthusiasts.

Star Rating: 3.0 out of 5

Overall, Amityville 1992: It's About Time is a fun, albeit flawed, entry in the series that offers something different from its predecessors. It may not reach the heights of the original, but its unique premise and nostalgic appeal make it worth a watch for genre aficionados. So, if you're in the mood for a quirky horror film with a time-bending twist, this one might just tick your clock.

Whether you're in it for the nostalgia or to complete your collection, this film offers enough intrigue to warrant a spot on your shelf.