This is why you go to the movies

Rating: 10/10 (24 March 2006)

"The Hills have Eyes" is, without a doubt, the best horror movie I've ever seen. Before true horror buffs burn me at the stake I will confess horror is not my favorite genre, but with movies like this I could be converted.
My weekend started with a very disappointing "V for Vendetta". I simply concluded "Not enough violence". When someone suggested "The Hills Have Eyes" I more or less went with the crowd. I soon realized I was not to be disappointed.
I'm that guy that reads credits and when I saw Wes Craven's name I almost left the theater. Say what you want about Mr. Craven, but I saw "Red Eye", and I hoped Freddy Krueger was going to kill me before I fell asleep. Don't even get my started on "Cursed". I will say this much: He does cast beautiful women. Please, I beg, don't let the credits or opening scene distract you from the movie. It's a work of art not to be missed.
The movie has great character development. You truly feel as if you're watching your own family. Except for the fact that I instantly fell in love with Brenda (I hope Emilie de Ravin has a long successful career). The mountains, sun, and shadows are filmed to perfection. The cast has the look and mannerisms that make you forget it's a movie. It's as close to real life as you can get. Not enough can be said for every aspect of the movie. It better win awards.
Once the horror starts it does not end. The original confrontation between "good" and "evil" is so intense I don't know if I even took a breath. "Shock and Awe" is the only term that can even come close to describing what you'll see. The tone is set, and you know you are in way over your head. The transformation from "wholesome family" to "kill or be killed" is brilliant. I truly feared for the characters.
After leaving the theater I said "That movie was brilliant!" I then questioned, "Are they allowed to show movies like that?" Every line is crossed. "Saving Private Ryan" changed war movies forever, and I predict "The Hills have Eyes" will have the same effect to horror movies. My hat is off to director Alexandre Aja. I hope he, and the other genius that worked on this film, continue to bring American movie goers unforgettable films such as "The Hills have Eyes".