Promising Beginning, but downhill from there.

Rating: 5/10 (16 May 2012)

I liked the filming technique of the beginning and the way the stage was set for the rest of the story, but it was mostly a disappointment after that. I was expecting something much funnier and unique, but, as others have noted, ALL of the funny scenes were shown in the ads for the film, and the plot was one we've seen a zillion times. The film wasn't particularly scary, funny, or dramatic, so I'm not sure what it was supposed to be.
I don't want to include any spoilers here, so am trying to not divulge much, but some of the scenes and characterizations make little sense, and, unless I missed it, the relationship of those living in the mansion to Barnabas' family is never explained. We're just left to assume they are somewhere in the Collins line.
Some of the special effects are cool, but I wish they had at least shown a little more gore since there was nothing else very interesting about the film. Also, I did not like the 70s style in which it was shot.
Overall, one of the more disappointing films I've seen given my expectations. Better luck next movie I hope.