Review: Poltergeist (2015)

Revisiting a beloved classic is always a tricky endeavor, especially when the original film holds a significant place in the hearts of horror enthusiasts. The 2015 remake of Poltergeist attempts to bring the chilling tale of a suburban family terrorized by malevolent spirits into the modern era. While it doesn't entirely capture the eerie charm and originality of the 1982 classic, it serves up a fresh perspective with upgraded special effects and a contemporary setting.

Plot Summary

Poltergeist (2015) follows the Bowen family, who move into a new home only to find themselves plagued by unexplained disturbances. What starts as harmless oddities quickly escalates into a full-blown memorable, with their youngest daughter, Madison, at the center of the supernatural activity. As the family grapples with increasingly terrifying phenomena, they seek the help of paranormal experts to rescue Madison from the clutches of the restless spirits.

Performances

In this updated take, Sam Rockwell and Rosemarie DeWitt step into the roles of the concerned parents, Eric and Amy Bowen. Rockwell delivers a performance that balances skepticism and desperation, bringing a grounded approach to the role of a father determined to protect his family. DeWitt, on the other hand, portrays a mother torn between fear and resolve, adding depth to her character with genuine emotional moments.

Jared Harris, as the paranormal expert Carrigan Burke, injects a dose of charisma and levity into the film. His character's blend of showmanship and genuine concern provides a nice contrast to the escalating terror. Young actress Kennedi Clements takes on the pivotal role of Madison with an innocence that makes her a sympathetic focal point of the memorable. While the performances don't quite match the iconic portrayals of the original, they offer a respectable update for a new generation.

Direction and Craft

Helmed by director Gil Kenan, Poltergeist (2015) is visually polished with a keen sense of pacing that keeps the audience engaged. Kenan leverages modern special effects to enhance the supernatural elements, creating a more visually dynamic experience compared to the original. The use of CGI is particularly evident in scenes involving the malevolent spirits and their interactions with the family, although it occasionally leans a bit too heavily on digital effects over practical ones.

The film balances moments of suspense with jump scares, maintaining a rhythm that will satisfy fans of contemporary horror. While it lacks the subtlety and slow build of the original, it compensates with a slick production value and a few inventive sequences that manage to unsettle. The score, composed by Marc Streitenfeld, adds to the atmosphere, though it doesn't quite reach the iconic status of the original's memorable melodies.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, the 2015 remake of Poltergeist may not eclipse the original, but it provides an intriguing addition to a horror collection, particularly for those interested in how classic tales are reimagined for new audiences. The best format to own this film is undoubtedly Blu-ray. The high-definition transfer does justice to the film's visual effects and offers a crisp, clear presentation that streaming might not fully capture. Additionally, the Blu-ray edition often includes bonus features like behind-the-scenes footage and commentary, which can be a treat for fans interested in the production process.

In terms of rarity, Poltergeist (2015) is relatively common, making it an accessible addition for most collectors. While it may not be a rare gem, its availability means you can easily find a copy to add to your shelf without much hassle. If you're a fan of horror remakes or interested in comparing different interpretations of a classic story, this version holds its own charms and merits.

Overall, Poltergeist (2015) stands as a respectable, if not entirely necessary, update to a classic horror story. It captures the essence of the original while delivering a polished modern experience. While it may not reach the iconic status of its predecessor, it offers enough thrills and chills to warrant a watch.