‘Haunting’ A Confusing Mystery

Mon., Aug. 2, 1999

Theresa Carpine, Ferris High School

“The Haunting” is good for a few jumps without being too bloody, but it’s a shame the bad plot doesn’t measure up to the preview.

Liam Neeson plays Dr. Marrow who gathers insomniacs at the ultracreepy Hill House for a study. In reality, he’s using the power of suggestion to study their response to fear.

You’re never sure what is the true story of Hill House and what Dr. Marrow made up to get a scream out of his patients. It adds to a mildly interesting but confusing mystery.

“The Haunting” has a slow beginning; a middle that couldn’t survive without beautiful set design, a chilling score and impressive effects; and an end that is best described as unimaginative. There are moments of great tension, but I had no trouble sleeping after it.

Grade: D

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