Product: The Haunting [VHS] (1999)
Rating: 2.0
Cheesy fun and a good Halloween party movie
A glitzy 1999 remake of the classic 1963 film of the same name, with different plot twists and an alternate ending.* Spectacular sets and a star-studded cast make this movie fun to watch.* The weak story line bears little resemblance to the brilliant 1963 movie, also calledThe Haunting.* Cheesy plot twists and some "good scares" contribute to the fun. It's not a thriller, or even a serious movie.Do not expect this movie to show you what real ghosts are like. "Hill House" may be a magnificent Hollywood set, but it bears little resemblance to actual haunted houses.If you're a fan of the terrifying book this movie is based on (The Haunting of Hill House (Penguin Classics), by Shirley Jackson) or the original movie, the new story line may be a huge disappointment, too.To put it simply, this is a high-budget, slightly cheesy movie that you'll watch for laughs and a few "good scares".I loved the sets and I was hopeful when I saw the cast list. However, I just didn't connect with the characters. On the other hand, the special effects were amusing and a few events startled me.There were several moments that I thought, "No, they aren't really going to do that...," and then -- sure enough -- they did. The reverse psychology of it took me by surprise every time.However, the moralizing conclusion of the movie was too cutesy and predictable. It also dragged on far too long, oblivious to several confusing lapses in logic.This movie is probably worth seeing once, for fun, and a second time to savor the gorgeous sets.Cook up some popcorn, turn down the lights, and expect a few shrieks... and shrieks of laughter as you and friends watch this somewhat silly movie.Trivia: The spiral staircase from the original movie makes a cameo appearance in this film. It also gave Liam Neeson a genuine fright, since he is not fond of heights.