Effective Remake of ‘The Last House on the Left’ a Powerful Horror Film

Rating: 4.0/5.0

CHICAGO – Dennis Illiadis’ remake of “The Last House on the Left” is the exception the proves the rule that most horror movie remakes are a complete waste of time. With an incredible performance by Garret Dillahunt (“Deadwood,” “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”) and great supporting work by Monica Potter, Sara Paxton, Tony Goldwyn, and others, “Last House” is the best mainstream horror movie in a long time.

Emphasis on the word horror, something you don’t see that often in movies of the genre that bears its name. In the ’80s, the slasher pic pushed the horror genre closer to the action genre asking audiences to cheer the murder of each nubile teen and running victim. Atmosphere and true, honest dread weren’t as important as a quality kill.

Read Brian Tallerico’s full review of “The Last House on the Left” in our reviews section.

Of course, modern horror is closer to mystery with each movie trying to top another with its twist ending. There’s nothing remotely scary about any of the “Saw” sequels. It’s the mystery of the puzzles that brings people back. Gory, yes. Honest horror? No.

Which brings me back to “The Last House on the Left,” a truly horrifying experience. This is not for the faint of heart. I can almost guarantee you that people will walk out of the theater you see it in. The TV commercials make it look like just another cookie cutter slasher pic and people might not be prepared for what they’re about to see. “Last House on the Left” is about awful, irredeemable people doing vicious things to good people and the tables being turned.

Continuing reading for Brian Tallerico’s full “The Last House on the Left” review.

The evil Krug (Garret Dillahunt) taunts his captive, Mari (Sara Paxton).
Photo credit: Lacey Terrell and Rogue/Universal