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Poltergeist (1982)

1982 • 1h 54m • Horror • R
On September 25, 2026
#3788▼ 3421
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MaxTyrone on Poltergeist

5/10 · Mar 28, 2017

I share with many people my memories of childhood nights spent watching AMC’s Halloween horror movie marathon—it was either a week or the entire month of October—and witnessing the Freeling family experience some original paranormal events; their home transforming into an entryway for spirits, leading to the disappearance of their youngest child. However, unlike others I know, my feelings about this film are quite mixed. As someone who enjoys horror movies, I find myself drawn to the genre even when it's not executed well or relies on familiar elements. Upon revisiting _Poltergeist_—it must be close to my twentieth viewing—and now being in my early twenties, the movie feels old-fashioned, and what initially made it so frightening now seems mild and somewhat silly. It’s possible I’ve become too accustomed to this kind of film. Maybe I'll appreciate it more later when I have a family, or when I resemble Craig T. Nelson. Nevertheless, right now the movie suffers from its slow rhythm, unpersuasive special effects (the scene in the kids’ room with the closet trying to pull them in, and the “face” sequence—you’ll recognize it), and its attempt to be both suitable for families and a horror film. What has endured over time since its release are the performances from the actors, particularly the parents. Despite this, it remains an enjoyable movie; but due to some significant shortcomings, it hasn't stood up to the test of time very well. Would I suggest it for children? Absolutely. How else will they develop a fear of clowns?

Source on TMDB