Blu-ray Review: House - A Unique Blend of Horror and Comedy

Released in 1986, House, directed by Steve Miner, is a film that defies easy categorization. Combining elements of horror, comedy, and psychological drama, it presents a narrative that is as unpredictable as it is engaging. The film stars William Katt, George Wendt, and Richard Moll, and has become a cult classic within the genre.

The plot centers around Roger Cobb, a Vietnam War veteran and horror novelist, who moves into a haunted house inherited from his aunt. Almost immediately, he finds himself confronted by a legion of ghosts, led by Ben, a fellow soldier he abandoned during the war.

The Film

Rating: 4/5

House is a curious cinematic beast that refuses to be confined to a single genre. It effortlessly weaves together elements of ghost stories, fantastical adventures, psychological nightmares, and family dramas. The screenplay, originally conceived by Fred Dekker and revised by Ethan Wiley, is notable for its ability to continually introduce new twists, keeping viewers on their toes. Each door opened in the film leads to unexpected places—whether it’s an attic, a Vietnam jungle, or a closet filled with mischievous demons. Ultimately, it reveals the protagonist's deep-seated regrets, making the supernatural a lens through which his inner turmoil is explored.

Miner's experience with the Friday the 13th franchise undoubtedly informs his adept handling of horror tropes in House. He transforms the horror space into a playground, where laughter and fear coexist. The film's humor does not undermine the tension; instead, it acts as a false floor hiding deeper anxieties. This balance is reminiscent of the energy found in Evil Dead, and it’s interesting to note that Evil Dead II, released a year later, seems to pay homage to Miner’s work, especially in its use of animated trophies.

Another standout aspect of House is its practical effects, crafted by John Carl Buechler and his team. In an era dominated by digital effects, the tangible presence of the creatures—each mask and animatronic—adds a layer of authenticity that is often missing in contemporary cinema. These effects serve not merely as spectacle but as manifestations of Cobb's trauma, transforming the fantastical into a narrative language that articulates guilt and fear. This notion of fears taking physical form would later be explored in James Wan's Insidious, suggesting that House was ahead of its time in its thematic exploration.

The film's enduring appeal can be attributed to its refusal to adhere to a linear narrative. Instead, it embraces a zigzagging structure that feels organic and unpredictable. This narrative fluidity keeps the audience engaged, as they never quite know what to expect next. Katt's portrayal of Roger Cobb is particularly compelling; he navigates a spectrum of emotions from sarcasm to vulnerability, making him a relatable character amidst the chaos. His interactions with Wendt, Moll, and Kay Lenz create a rich tapestry of personalities that, while seemingly disparate, ultimately coalesce to reveal the film's true intent: a journey through one’s haunted past.

The Blu-ray Release

Rating: 4/5

ESC Films has released a collector's edition of House along with its sequel, House II: The Second Story. This limited edition comes in a sturdy, numbered case and includes two Blu-rays, a 52-page booklet, and two collectible posters, making it a must-have for fans of 80s horror cinema.

The film has undergone a 2K restoration, enhancing its visual quality significantly. The colors are vibrant and well-balanced, and the depth of contrast highlights many previously unnoticed details. The film maintains its original grain, and the practical effects are rendered more convincingly in high definition. The audio options include a French version in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, along with an English version in both DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and 5.1. Both versions deliver a lively sound experience that complements the film's dynamic shifts in tone.

In addition to the film itself, the extras in this edition are noteworthy, particularly a retrospective making-of documentary (1 hour and 6 minutes) featuring Katt, Wendt, Miner, Wiley, and Sean S. Cunningham. This documentary captures the spirit of the film's production, sharing insights into the creative process, budget constraints, and the camaraderie shared among the cast and crew.

The anecdotes shared in the making-of highlight a bygone era of practical effects, showcasing the ingenuity of a dedicated team that crafted memorable creatures from foam and latex. Their passion and resourcefulness shine through, making this edition not only a visual delight but also a heartfelt tribute to the artistry of genre filmmaking.