Review: Poltergeist (2015)

When you hear the name Poltergeist, your mind probably wanders back to the 1982 classic that left an indelible mark on the horror genre. The 2015 remake attempts to capture that same supernatural thrill, but with a modern spin. Directed by Gil Kenan, known for his work on animated films like Monster House, this version seeks to introduce the memorable story to a new generation of horror fans.

Plot Summary

In this updated version, the Bowen family moves into a suburban home, only to discover that it's haunted by malevolent spirits. As the supernatural occurrences escalate, they come to realize their home was built on an old burial ground, and the spirits are not pleased with the intrusion. The film follows the family's desperate attempts to rescue their youngest daughter, Madison, who becomes the primary target of the paranormal forces. While the plot mirrors the original closely, it introduces modern elements such as smartphones and advanced ghost-hunting equipment to appeal to contemporary audiences.

Performances

The performances in Poltergeist (2015) are competent, though they rarely exceed expectations. Sam Rockwell, as the father Eric Bowen, brings a certain charm and relatability to his role, though it feels like he's somewhat underutilized given his talent. Rosemarie DeWitt plays the mother, Amy, and her portrayal is earnest, capturing the maternal anguish of a parent fighting to protect her children. The standout, however, is young Kennedi Clements as Madison, who manages to convey innocence and fear effectively, even if the script doesn't always give her much to work with. Jared Harris as the paranormal expert Carrigan Burke adds a quirky touch, though his character never quite reaches the iconic status of Zelda Rubinstein's Tangina Barrons from the original.

Direction and Craft

Gil Kenan's direction attempts to blend nostalgia with modern horror tropes, but the balance is a tricky one. The film's pacing sometimes falters, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others drag on without significant progression. What stands out, however, are the visual effects. The remake benefits from advancements in CGI, delivering some genuinely creepy moments that play well on the senses. The use of lighting and sound design enhances the eerie atmosphere, though it occasionally leans too heavily on jump scares, which might feel a bit overdone for seasoned horror aficionados.

The production design does its best to mimic the cozy yet unsettling feel of a suburban home turned menacing. The film's color palette and set design are effective in creating a contrast between normalcy and the supernatural. Yet, despite these efforts, the film struggles to recreate the same level of suspense and dread that made the original a classic.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, Poltergeist (2015) presents an interesting opportunity. While it doesn't quite match the iconic status of its predecessor, it serves as a curious piece for those interested in the evolution of horror remakes. The best format to own this film is Blu-ray. The high-definition format does justice to the film's modern visual effects, particularly the more elaborate ghostly encounters. While the Blu-ray release is common, it often comes with behind-the-scenes features that provide insight into the film's production, which might be appealing to collectors who appreciate a deeper look into filmmaking processes.

Poltergeist (2015) is a decent addition for horror enthusiasts who enjoy remakes, though it may not fully capture the eerie charm of the original. The Blu-ray format offers the best viewing experience for the film's technical achievements, even if the rarity rating remains common.

In conclusion, while the 2015 version of Poltergeist offers an updated take on a beloved horror story, it struggles to stand on its own. It brings a few fresh elements to the table but ultimately falls short of the original's atmospheric tension and memorable characters. For collectors, it's a film that's worth having for the sake of completeness, especially if you're a fan of horror remakes, but it won't replace the original in your heart or on your shelf.