Films That Shook Me Up: VI – The Amityville Horror

When it comes to the films that have profoundly influenced my relationship with horror, few have left as indelible a mark as The Amityville Horror. This 1979 classic was my first proper introduction to the haunted house genre, and what an intense initiation it was. Even now, every time I pass an old house with those distinctive twin windows, I am transported back to the eerie feeling that this film evoked in me.

Historical Context

Based on Jay Anson’s 1977 Novel, which claimed to recount the true experiences of the Lutz family in their new home at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York, The Amityville Horror arrived at a time when supernatural horror was capturing the public’s imagination. The late 1970s were a golden age of horror, with films like The Exorcist, The Omen, and The Shining solidifying their places in cinematic history.

The film’s release capitalized on a growing appetite for stories that blurred the lines between reality and fiction. The Lutz family’s tale of terror was marketed as a true story, a claim that was both intriguing and terrifying for audiences. The ensuing debates about the authenticity of the events further fueled the film’s mystique, ensuring its legacy as one of horror’s most talked-about entries.

Key Scenes and Impact

Thinking back, two scenes from The Amityville Horror stand out as particularly impactful. First, those iconic twin windows that seem to watch over the house like malevolent eyes. They are a visual cue that something is profoundly wrong within this home, a silent but ever-present reminder of the evil lurking within.

The second scene that has etched itself into my memory is the infamous ‘GET OUT’ moment with the priest. To my younger self, there was nothing more terrifying than the house itself seemingly commanding a man of faith to leave. This scene encapsulated the sheer malevolence of the home and left an indelible impression on me, suggesting that even the forces of good were powerless against its evil.

Thematic Analysis

The Amityville Horror delves into themes that resonate on a primal level.

• The Haunted House Trope: The film epitomizes the haunted house trope, transforming a place meant to be safe into a realm of terror. It’s a powerful metaphor for the fear of the unknown and the loss of control over one’s environment.
• The Power of Suggestion: By claiming to be based on true events, the film blurs the line between reality and fiction, leveraging the power of suggestion to heighten its impact. This ambiguity leaves viewers questioning what is real, extending the fear beyond the screen.
• Family Dynamics and Isolation: The narrative explores the breakdown of the Lutz family’s dynamics, isolating them within their own home. This isolation amplifies their fears and showcases the vulnerability of the family unit when faced with unexplained phenomena.
• The Conflict Between Good and Evil: The presence of the priest and the ‘GET OUT’ scene underscore the classic battle between good and evil. The house’s ability to repel a symbol of hope and protection highlights the overwhelming malevolent force at play.

Personal Reflection

In my timeline of horror film experiences, The Amityville Horror stands alongside other seminal works like The Fog by John Carpenter. For a long time, these films were my go-to recommendations, the benchmarks against which I measured all other horrors. While my tastes evolved, leading me to the gory delights of the Friday the 13th series and eventually the masterpiece that is Dawn of the Dead, The Amityville Horror remains a cornerstone of my horror education.

It’s curious to think about how younger audiences today might experience similar chills. Perhaps sneaking a viewing of Hereditary at a young age could offer a comparable scare. Yet, there’s something uniquely unsettling about the 1970s and early 80s decor that seems to amplify the horror—a vibe that filmmakers like Rob Zombie, who share my generational lens, continue to mine effectively.

Influential Elements

Specific elements from The Amityville Horror have influenced my horror sensibilities profoundly:

• The ‘GET OUT’ Scene: The sheer terror of that moment has set a high bar for supernatural scares in my mind.
• The Twin Windows: These architectural features have become a lasting symbol of horror for me, a visual shorthand for unease.
• Supernatural Menace: The film’s ability to convey a pervasive sense of malevolence has shaped my appreciation for horror that taps into the fear of the unknown.

Conclusion

The Amityville Horror is more than just a film; it’s an experience that resonates deeply with those who have seen it. Its themes, imagery, and the chilling notion of a safe haven turned sinister have secured its place in the pantheon of horror classics. For me, it remains a touchstone of terror, a film that continues to influence my perception of horror and my appreciation for the genre.

If you haven’t yet experienced the chills of The Amityville Horror, I encourage you to watch it with an open mind and a willingness to be thoroughly unsettled. Perhaps you’ll find yourself, like me, forever wary of those haunting twin windows.