Saw this one on a "Best Horror Movies of 2011" list so gave it a go. Very glad I did!
Made for a very low 750k you do get some B Grade elements but generally the movie bats well above it's grade especially in cinematography and audio. It's directed by Ti West who is responsible for some pretty decent horror titles such as "The House of The Devil" and "V/H/S".
We are introduced to a pair of hotel workers preparing for the final weekend before the hotel is shut down. During their time they have experienced some strange paranormal experiences so want to use this remaining time to attempt to capture some proof on tape.
This story is obviously neither original or clever but it doesn't matter as you are instantly entranced with the 'mood' of the film. The creepy old Inn, the creepy music and a few cheesy intro scares all work together to create a great eerie atmosphere that a lot of modern horrors lack.
The movie manages to maintain this atmosphere for virtually the entire duration and as it is basically filmed only in and around the Inn it also feels quite claustrophobic. The introduction of some intriguing 'guests' keeps the creepy vibe rolling.
Another positive is in the modern age of graphic gore and violence in our horror films, Innkeepers manages to succeed with a minimum of both. (Or am I just getting old??)
The only real criticism I can make is with some of the acting, but with that budget it's to be expected. It's not terrible, in fact quite good when it matters but there are a couple of groan moments along the way. That said I don't feel this detracted much from the movie as a whole.
A great little film - watch it on a cold winters night with a glass of red (always!). Great to see a low budget horror worth watching - they are few and far between. Last great one I can recall was Session 9.
7/10
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Sounds good. Ti West is a master of creating atmosphere and suspense, he just needs to work on his finishes I think. House of the Devil was so awesomely made but really bombed out in the end, hope Innkeepers doesnt have same flaw. Will definitely check it out though.
ReplyDeleteInteresting film. Started off slowly, almost to a fault before kicking into gear. The slow first 30-40 minutes helps to bulid the story, characters and that eeriness. The best part of the film for me is the score by Jeff Grace. An old school, eerie, decaying film score that compliments the film perfectly. I'd say without the score as good as it is, this wouldnt be anywhere near as good as it ends up being. Great cinematography as well, showed great restraint. Almost 'The Shining' like in appearance. The acting is overall ok, really really bad in parts, pretty good in others. I cant help but get a Disney vibe from the first part of the film. For the budget, for the type of movie this is, I reckon its well worth a watch. It knows its place and doesnt try to be anything that its not. 7/10
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