Thirteen Ghosts (2001). I love horror movies and this fits the bill in so many ways. For years I have had people scoff at my enjoyment of this movie. A lot of them telling me the original was better. Well, thanks to streaming services I have now seen the original. 2001 is better.
I am sure when it was made it was quite the endeavor in 1960. And it was not a bad movie. Not at all. They were not the same movie though. As much as they try to tell you it is a remake, it really was not.
It stars Tony Shaloub as widowed single father of two. The backstory of the movie is great. There is a reason he and his family are moved into this house by a long lost relative. It is actually a great hook for the movie.
The house is actually a machine and the set is gorgeous. It becomes a character all on its own with its moving pieces. Absolutely phenomenally used to create tension and dread throughout the film.
Then the character design of the ghosts and the dark zodiac/tarot idea to give us the thirteen ghosts. Another incredible feast for the eyes. Each time you think that the ghost on screen is awful, the next one is released. The ghosts move around and interact with the family and occasionally each other. I wish we learned more about their backstory but we know enough about to know why they are selected and how they are moved to the house.
And the ending. It ties everything up so beautifully.
The last few years I have gotten into the board game, Betrayal at House on the Hill. Playing that game reminds me a lot of this movie. It is like one of the scenarios that you might encounter in the game.
I have always loved this horror movie. It really showed me how beautifully dark and filled with dread a movie could be. I love it and it deserves more respect.
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