Poltergeist

Review by James Anthony

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While watching Poltergeist for the first time in 18 years, two things came rushing into the brain.

First was: the way the phrase "They're ba-ack!" became part of the language.

And secondly: that clown still scares the living poo out of me.

Not that Poltergeist is a stunningly frightening tale, it's more a moderately chill-inducing story of how mischievous ghosts can wreak havoc upon a family's quiet life.

And the Freelings' lives are quiet, right up until the time the television is left on and strange occurrences . . . occur.

A chair moving across the kitchen floor is one thing, but when their beautiful little daughter disappears into the television and can't get out then it's time for some expert help.

The ghostbusters arrive and then it's on for young and old as the ghosts - pissed at not being brave enough to "travel towards the light" - are stuck on Earth.

Considering the vintage of Poltergeist - a gentle 18 years old now, the special effects don't appear too dated and the transfer is fine, without being anything worth raving about.

It is an enjoyable, semi-scary (except the clown) tale that is worth investing the time in, if not to just check out how far the magic of special effects has come in two decades.

Conclusion: Movie 75%, Extras 20%

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