The Amityville Horror

The Amityville Horror is a remake of the 1979 film, in which a family is terrorized by demonic forces after moving into their dream home.

For the uninitiated, this true story began with a series of grisly murders on Long Island in 1974, when Ronald DeFeo shot all six members of his family to death as they slept. One year later, George and Kathy Lutz moved into the infamous house with their three children, but fled after only 28 days because of the strange goings-on. Their story was told in a best-selling 1977 book by Jay Anson, which led to the original film (starring James Brolin and Margot Kidder), a prequel and six sequels.

The first cinematic version, however, cut most of the book's scariest moments in order to obtain a PG rating. While the 1979 treatment was hardly a masterpiece, the 2005 attempt pales in comparison. Though it purports to stay faithful to the book, most of the original incidents have been replaced with what have quickly become standard elements in such contemporary films as The Ring and The Grudge. In fact, first-time director Andrew Douglas relies so heavily on mimicry of other films he shows no imagination of his own. Even the soundtrack is cliched, replacing the old version's chilling theme.

Canadian Ryan Reynolds stars as George Lutz; though his charm is undeniable, he suggests he is incapable of anything more than flexing his ripped physique. As he is slowly driven insane by the curse within the house, one fully expects him to burst through a door and exclaim, "Heeere's Johnny!"

The house we see bears little resemblance to the real one, save for the distinct quarter-round attic windows. While the events therein have proven to be an enduring tale, The Amityville Horror is an atmospheric film that is heavy on mood, but light on fright. Rating: 3 out of 10.