Better in Parts, Not in the Whole

Rating: 7/10 (7 April 2013)

I had one of the most intense viewing experiences of my life when I saw the original one night in the eighties, on videocassette from the crappy little shop across the street. I haven't had all that many such experiences and I cherish these memories. I only watched this film, and I am sure other fans watched it for the same reasons, because the original filmmaker, Sam Raimi, and the original star, Bruce Campbell, gave it their blessings by signing on as producers.
This remake has a better budget, better effects, a better plot, and, arguably, a better cast. This didn't add up to a better movie. I was enthralled by the original movie because I was shocked by it. After watching horror movies for another twenty-five years, I can't be shocked by anything, especially gore. That said, this was a solid movie that didn't diminish its progenitor. I'm just not sure that I will remember it.