I can see why all the fuss was made...

Rating: 9/10 (10 May 2001)

If we're talking 'modern classic films', then this nearly always gets a mention, and I can see why. Strip away all the hype of the "Best Film/Scariest Film Ever" variety and you are still left with a brilliant film. Beautifully directed and acted, this is just a great film whether you see it expecting to be scared out of your wits or just out of curiosity. I might venture to suggest that it's lost some of its impact since its original release (probably why I didn't give it top marks) but then cinema and society in general has progressed (some would say regressed) in that time. I still felt vaguely unsettled after watching it; and believe me, in these days when modern horror is often nothing but artifice, that's a compliment. An imperious film.