I feel it's necessary to start off by saying that I did not view the original movie, nor have I viewed the unrated version. This review is strictly of the unrated version presented on this DVD with no preconceptions or expectations. Though, with Wes Craven's name attached I expect professionalism and, well, fear.
The plot is no big secret here, family goes to vacation home, teenage daughter gets abused, her family takes revenge. We know that's coming so it's a relief that the film doesn't dwell too long setting everything up. Once we know the girl is in trouble, and it is quite obvious, we settle in for some sadistic abuse followed by grim death. I must say the unrated version of the girls rape is quite graphic and very uncomfortable. (I can only imagine watching it with a girl or older family member, arghh, awkward.) I must admit that I was kind of weirded out by the whole killers visit the family angle, but it works here and we enjoy watching the bad guys gets picked off one by one. I wonder though, was that the filmmakers purpose? I would prefer to at least feel a tad bit of sympathy for the murderous crew. Sure, we feel bad for young Justin (Spencer Treat Clark), but he never really steps ups to earn my sympathy. Tony Goldwyn does an admirable job, as Dr. John Collingwood, turned vigilante and Monica Parker as Emma Collingwood, turns on the heat, while trying to make Francis (Aaron Paul) think she's seducing him. Garret Dillahunt is also, impressive in his role and the gang leader Krug, but his constrained by the role. Unfortunately, none of the bad guys really stick out as the villain that will be remembered.
The 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen image is good quality and the Dolby Digital 5.1 mix sounded above average to my ears. John Murphy's score sets up the terror frightening well, and never takes away from the suspense. The extras consisted of a few deleted scenes, and a short 'Inside Look' segment. Unfortunately, there is no commentary from Wes Craven.
- DVD Empire
by Hippie Dan |
