Review: Amityville The Awakening (2017)

The Amityville series has been a staple in the horror genre since the late 1970s, engaging audiences with its tale of a haunted house plagued by malevolent spirits. With "Amityville The Awakening" (2017), director Franck Khalfoun attempts to breathe new life into the saga by blending traditional horror elements with contemporary twists. As collectors, it's always intriguing to see how these reboots stack up against their predecessors, both in storytelling and in terms of their value on the shelf.

Plot Summary

"Amityville The Awakening" follows Belle, a teenager who moves into the infamous Amityville house with her family. Her mother, Joan, is desperate for a fresh start, hoping the new environment will help her comatose son, James, recover. As strange occurrences begin to unfold, Belle becomes suspicious of the house's sinister history. She dives into uncovering the truth about their new home, while grappling with the eerie events that seem to revolve around her brother. Without spoiling too much, the film explores the struggles of a family haunted by both external forces and their own internal demons.

Performances

Bella Thorne takes center stage as Belle, delivering a performance that is both engaging and earnest. Her portrayal of a skeptical and protective sister is convincing and adds a layer of depth to the character. Jennifer Jason Leigh, playing Joan, brings her experience to the table, depicting a mother on the edge with a nuanced performance that commands attention. Cameron Monaghan, as the comatose brother James, has a limited role in terms of dialogue, but his presence looms large and effectively contributes to the film's tension. The supporting cast, including Thomas Mann and Jennifer Morrison, provide solid performances that bolster the narrative, even if their roles are somewhat peripheral.

Direction and Craft

Director Franck Khalfoun, known for his work on "Maniac" (2012), brings a polished touch to "Amityville The Awakening." The film's pacing is relatively brisk, an approach that helps maintain tension throughout its runtime. Khalfoun makes effective use of the iconic house setting, capturing its eerie ambiance with a keen eye for detail. The cinematography, handled by Steven Poster, plays a vital role in setting the film's creepy tone. The lighting and shadow work enhance the haunted atmosphere, making the house itself feel like a character.

The script, written by Khalfoun, attempts to balance traditional horror with a modern sensibility. While it doesn't stray far from the familiar haunted house formula, it incorporates some fresh twists that might catch seasoned horror fans off guard. The movie's sound design also deserves mention, with an unsettling score that amplifies the suspense and keeps viewers on edge.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "Amityville The Awakening" offers a decent addition to any horror collection, especially for fans of the franchise. While it may not redefine the haunted house genre, it provides enough thrills and narrative intrigue to warrant a place on your shelf. In terms of physical media, the Blu-ray edition is the best format to own. It delivers superior picture and sound quality, which is crucial for appreciating the film's atmospheric elements.

As for its rarity, this title is fairly common, making it easily accessible for most collectors. However, its connection to the broader Amityville legacy could make it more desirable in the future, especially if you're looking to complete a collection of the series.

Overall, "Amityville The Awakening" is a respectable entry in the lasting saga, delivering enough chills for a worthwhile viewing experience. It's a film that horror enthusiasts will likely appreciate, even if it's not a standout piece within the genre.

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In summary, "Amityville The Awakening" provides an engaging, if not entirely innovative, addition to the horror landscape. While it doesn't break new ground, it does honor the traditions of the haunted house genre with a modern twist that might appeal to both new viewers and long-time fans alike. For collectors, it's a solid pick, especially in Blu-ray format, offering quality visuals and sound to enhance the chilling experience.