Review: Poltergeist III (1988)

The late 80s was a peculiar time for horror sequels. As a collector, you know the thrill of finding those gems that aren't quite perfect but have something special. Poltergeist III fits neatly into that category. The third installment of a beloved franchise, this film shifted gears, taking the memorable from the suburban sprawl to the urban jungle. Gone are the familiar settings of the Freeling home; instead, we find ourselves in a high-rise luxury apartment complex in Chicago. It's a bold move, one that attempts to blend everyday urban life with otherworldly terror.

Plot Summary

In Poltergeist III, we reconnect with Carol Anne, now living in Chicago to attend a special school for gifted children. She's under the care of her aunt and uncle, Patricia and Bruce Gardner, who reside in a towering skyscraper. The urban setting is a stark contrast to the previous films, offering a new playground for the supernatural. As expected, the malevolent spirit of Reverend Kane isn't finished with Carol Anne yet. Strange occurrences begin to unsettle the building's residents, with mirrors playing a central role in the eerie happenings. The film cleverly uses its setting, leveraging the reflective surfaces and claustrophobic spaces of the high-rise to enhance the horror.

Performances

Returning as Carol Anne, Heather O'Rourke delivers a performance that is both charming and unsettling, a reflection to her ability to carry a horror film. She brings a sense of continuity and innocence that the movie desperately needs amidst its darker tones. Tom Skerritt and Nancy Allen portray Bruce and Patricia Gardner, offering grounded performances that anchor the film's more outlandish moments. Their chemistry is believable, and they manage to convey the growing tension and fear as the supernatural events unravel. Zelda Rubinstein reprises her role as Tangina Barrons, providing that familiar link to the original films. Her presence, though not as central as before, adds an essential touch of continuity and mysticism.

Direction and Craft

Directed by Gary Sherman, Poltergeist III takes a distinct approach to its horror elements. The decision to utilize practical effects, particularly with the use of mirrors, adds a tangible layer of dread that CGI often fails to replicate. Sherman’s vision of an urban horror environment is ambitious, though it occasionally stumbles under its own weight. The film's pacing can be uneven, with moments of genuine suspense sometimes overshadowed by slower, less impactful scenes. However, the film excels in its atmospheric use of the high-rise setting. The reflective surfaces and the cold, sterile architecture of the building serve as perfect backdrops for the spectral phenomena. Despite its flaws, the craftsmanship in set design and practical effects remains noteworthy.

Collector's Verdict

For those of us who appreciate the quirks of horror sequels, Poltergeist III offers a unique experience. It strays from the original's formula while maintaining enough connective tissue to satisfy fans. The film's focus on practical effects over digital ones gives it a distinct charm, particularly for collectors who value the artistry behind 80s horror. In terms of physical media, the Blu-ray edition is the best format to own. It captures the film's visual nuances, especially the clever use of mirrors and lighting, much better than older VHS or DVD versions. As for rarity, Poltergeist III is relatively common, so it shouldn’t be too challenging to add to your collection.

Overall, while Poltergeist III may not reach the heights of its predecessors, it still holds a certain appeal. It's a reflection to the era's creativity in horror filmmaking and offers enough intriguing elements to warrant a watch, particularly for fans of the franchise.