Re-evaluation from a one-time harsh critic...

Rating: 8/10 (3 March 2006)

I originally slammed this film when I first saw it. Having had a chance to see it again in a more proper setting, I find myself changing my opinion on this film.
You see, the first time I saw it was on the big screen. A matinÃ©e showing, at that. How scary can anything be in a crowded building in the middle of the afternoon? The next time I saw it was at home, at night, after having watched the 'Curse of the Blair Witch' back story mockumentary. It also helped that I live near the woods. This time, I saw how truly scary this film can be. Without the sound distortion of the theater's Surroundsound system, many of the scary sounds came through much more clearly. And seeing the back story helps you to see some of the supernatural aspects (that house at the end isn't even supposed to be there!).
Seen the right way (at night, as close to alone as possible, near or in the woods if you can manage it), this is a horror masterpiece.