Scary but some shortcomings

Rating: 7/10 (16 September 2002)

***** CONTAINS SPOILERS******* In terms of tension and suspenseful build up this film has it all but I feel ultimately what lets the film down is the cop out ending. The film has a Blair Witch type feel in that the menace is felt but not seen (for the majority of the movie)which works really well. I for one gripped the sides of my seat thought large portions of the movie! What doesn't work is the sudden reversal in the plot to dovetail in with the various strands in the story and connect this to Mel's restoration in his faith. It just doesn't work and leaves you feeling short changed when you leave the cinema. I almost felt the film would have worked better if it ended in the cellar when the lights went out, at least the outcome would then have been left to the viewers imagination. Having said this the film is still well worth a view.