Burnt Offerings was released theatrically in 1976. It starred Oliver Reed, Karen Black as well as Bette Davis. Directed by Dan Curtis (who also directed the maniacal 'The Brain from Planet Arous') the film would go on to maintain cult status. It is one of the few seventies horror classics that hasn't been stamped with a remake yet. The premise of the story is simple: Ben (Reid) and Marian (Black) rent an expansive summer home in the sprawling countryside for a mere 900 dollars. The house takes a hypnotic hold on Marian whereas only Ben seems to notice while Marian is totally oblivious to this. As the summer drags on many spiritualistic occurrences take place including the house's uncanny ability to repair itself after someone is injured or dies. Upon watching this film a second time, I was thoroughly impressed with the cinematography work done on behalf of Jacques r. Marquette. It was very subtle and surreptitious upon my first viewing but upon seeing the film again, many of his tracking shots and quick cutaways reminded me of 'Easy Rider'. The look he brings to the film also centers around a 'smokey' look seen in a lot of soap operas. The self-proclaimed 'British bull' Oliver Reed is surprisingly laid-back in his role of the ultra masculine husband Ben. Bette Davis delivers a solid role as usually. However, I found Karen Black's acting to be bothersome. I just couldn't get into her part! I was also perturbed by the immaturity she conveyed on the films commentary track. That's another topic in itself though
In terms of special effects Burnt Offerings delivers. I caught glimpses of creative reverse playback and innocuous use of wind and rain machines. The environments portrayed throughout the film seem to be poorly lit; at certain times you would expect there to be some sort of fill light! For example, at one of the pool scenes it is incredibly difficult to see what exactly our two protagonists are doing in and around the pools parameter. Although Burnt Offerings is nothing spectacular, for a mid range budget, 70's horror flick it does have some goods spots but can render on the pretentious side. The picture does present some juicy scenes such as a rather deplorable pool scene between father and son and, of course, the infamous ending. I would recommend Burnt Offerings for fans of 70's horror movies. Otherwise, maybe save it for a rental folks!
6/10
6/10