Nov 2, 20221 min read

Poltergeist: Classic Creeps

Updated: Feb 28, 2023

Reviews by:

@augustkellerwrites

RATE THIS MOVIE

Poltergeist is a classic blockbuster. It has a simple plot, general themes, and common protagonists, yet it captures a precise feeling. Specifically, it considers the terrifying wonder of the unknown by thrusting an all-American family into an alien situation. The character choices might weaken suspension of disbelief since their openness allows the conflict, but that's a metaphor for mankind's experimentation with the unknown. Plus, the acting offsets this questionable relatability by adding intensity, chemistry, range, and sincerity. Moreover, there's optimized pacing, iconic dialogue, and textbook story structure. Overall, Poltergeist efficiently blends drama, spectacle, and substance.

Technically, Poltergeist is superb. Its editing employs jump cuts, intercuts, smash cuts, and match dissolves. The music is dated, but it's still suspenseful, endearing, and organized. Its production design blends the everyday with the supernatural. The imagery uses pronounced movement, lighting, composition, colors, and angles. Meanwhile, the sound contributes stings, layering, distortions, peaks, and ambiance. Lastly, the immersive special effects utilize green screens, CGI, mechanics, prosthetics, Matte paintings, makeup, wires, pyrotechnics, and puppetry. Consequently, Poltergeist is extravagant, reflecting its themes of wonder. Ultimately, it's a film for everyone.

Writing: 6/10

Direction: 8/10

Cinematography: 9/10

Acting: 8/10

Editing: 7/10

Sound: 9/10

Score/Soundtrack: 7/10

Production Design: 8/10

Casting: 8/10

Effects: 10/10

Overall Score: 8.0/10

By @augustkellerwrites