The Amityville Curse (1990) Review

Ah, The Amityville Curse. It's a title that might not immediately spring to mind when you think of the infamous Amityville brand, but this 1990 entry offers a curious piece for die-hard collectors of the series. It's not the one that people often label as quintessential horror, but it has its own odd charm that makes it worth discussing, especially for those who relish the deeper cuts of horror franchises.

Plot Summary

The film spins a story that deviates from the infamous haunted house narrative that most associate with Amityville. Instead, it focuses on a group of friends who decide to renovate an old, eerie house, only to find themselves entangled in a web of supernatural occurrences. This setup leads to the usual thrills and chills that come when you mix renovation projects with the paranormal. As they dig deeper into the house's history, they uncover secrets that some forces would rather keep buried. The story unfolds with a blend of mystery and horror, though it meanders away from the original series' core memorable narrative.

Performances

The cast of The Amityville Curse is a mix of characters that serve the story’s supernatural and thriller elements. Kim Coates, who many might recognize from his later roles, delivers a performance that is earnest, if not entirely memorable. He has a knack for bringing a certain intensity to his roles, and here, he does his best with the material provided. Helen Hughes, taking on the role of Mrs. Moriarty, is notable as well, bringing a touch of gravitas to the film's proceedings. While none of the performances are likely to be etched into the annals of horror history, they provide a solid enough foundation to support the eerie atmosphere the film tries to build.

Direction and Craft

Directed by Tom Berry, The Amityville Curse doesn’t push the envelope in terms of horror filmmaking, but it has a peculiar style that might intrigue collectors who appreciate the genre's varied history. Berry’s approach to the haunted house trope is more subdued, preferring to generate tension through atmosphere and the gradual unfolding of the house’s backstory. However, this methodical pacing might feel sluggish to those accustomed to more kinetic horror.

The film’s production values are typical of its time, with practical effects that, while not spectacular, serve their purpose. The cinematography lacks the polish of its higher-budget counterparts, but it manages to capture the claustrophobic essence of the haunted house. The sound design contributes to the film’s eerie vibe, though it doesn’t stand out as particularly innovative.

Collector's Verdict

For those who collect horror films, particularly those following the Amityville franchise, The Amityville Curse is a quirky addition that offers insight into the franchise's broader cultural impact during the late 80s and early 90s. It's a film that’s best appreciated as part of the larger collection rather than a standalone feature. The VHS format is particularly appealing to collectors, as it captures the era's aesthetic and offers a nostalgic viewing experience that enhances its charm. Despite its uncommon status, it isn't so rare as to be inaccessible, making it a feasible yet intriguing addition to your horror collection.

In conclusion, The Amityville Curse may not hold a candle to the more prominent films in the Amityville series, but it has its place in the annals of horror for those who want to complete their collection. It’s an example of a film that, while not outstanding, contributes to the rich fabric of genre offerings from its era.

Star Rating

I’d give The Amityville Curse a solid 2.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a film that serves its purpose for collectors and offers a bit of nostalgia, but it doesn’t quite achieve the impact of its more famous predecessors.