The Haunting (1999) – review
This movie is a glitzy remake of the classic 1963 film of the same name, with different plot twists and an alternate ending.
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 book or the original movie, the story line will probably 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.
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.
SUMMARY
- Spectacular sets and a star-studded cast make this movie fun to watch
- The story bears little resemblance to the brilliant 1963 movie of the same name
- Cheesy plot twists and some “good scares” make this an adult Halloween party film
The Haunting (1999)
Cast: Lili Taylor, Liam Neeson, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Owen Wilson, and Bruce Dern.
Rating: 
Read other reviews of The Haunting (1999)
Or, compare it with my review of The Haunting (1963)
Or go ahead and buy a copy at Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk
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