Product: The Haunting [VHS] (1999)
Rating: 3.0
HOLLYWOODIZED VERSION OF SHIRLEY JACKSON'S CLASSIC
THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE is a classic piece of the "ghost story" genre and a favorite among horror afficionados (Stephen King always praised the book and was inspired by Jackson's work). I realize many young people are awed by the special effects and the humongous set,and the sound and visual qualities which they see on the DVD, but this film is not faithful to the original, excellent story and it could have been MUCH better. For the most part, the script was ludicrous and the newly added elements such as Eleanor being related to Hugh Crain's wife were totally ridiculous and hardly neccesary. The original Hugh Crain was simply an eccentric, sadly embittered man, NOT a MONSTER! Catherine Zeta-Jones is a statuesque beauty and she served Theo well, but she and Eleanor didn't interact nearly enough. Lilli's personality was right for Eleanor for the most part, but it was that PUTRID script which prevented her from making Eleanor Jackson's Eleanor. Liam was all wrong as his version of Dr. Montague and Owen Wilson's interpretation of Luke was a joke (literally). Ornate and expensive though the set may have been, it did NOT capture the intended creepy atmosphere so important to the story (it was TOO much! ). I thought the idea of the guests being invited to do a survey on insomnia was clever and original however; it's what happens afterwards which misfired! If you TRULY liked this movie and you would like to see the version which was in keeping with the book, rent the 1963 version of THE HAUNTING with Julie Harris (SHE was Eleanor!)Although not a perfect movie by any means, it basically captured Jackson's subtle intentions and it lingers in the memory MUCH longer than a string of lousy special effects! Last, but not least, go to a used bookstore and buy a copy of "The Haunting of Hill House" by Shirley Jackson and decide for yourself!