— by CHERRY BELL DAMASCO-FARRINGTON —
As a fan of Guillermo del Toro, but not of horror films, I am willing to give “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark” a chance. The film — which has been held up in post-production due to Disney selling Miramax — will finally made its way into theaters this month.
The story centers on a family that has just moved into an old house. Alex Hirst (Guy Pearce) is busy with the renovations of the house, while his girlfriend Kim (Katie Holmes) attempts to befriend his daughter Sallie (Bailee Madison). Sallie has just recently been abandoned by her biological mother, so is a bit distant. When they move into the house, Sallie happens upon an old room left vacant for almost a century in the depths of the house. From that moment on, Sallie is terrorized by voices and the “creatures.” Alex does not believe his daughter, but Kim delves into the history of the home and finds very troublesome information and begins to believe Sallie.
In this first clip, Sallie attempts to open the grate that holds back the voices that she hears.
Next, Sallie is distraught that no one believes her. Kim sees Sallie’s distress and reassures her that she is there to confide in.
In the third clip, Sallie hears voices in the yard and follows them towards some bushes along the house. She walks cautiously towards the whisperings that she hears.
In the following clip, Sallie and Kim have just arrived to the house for the first time. It gives a very foreboding feel to the clip. It’s almost as if Sallie’s insecurities are reflected in her look and the way she surveys her new surroundings.
And finally, as part of the renovations Alex tears down a wall and discovers a hidden door. Sallie shows her interest while Mr. Harris shows his concern for the wall being torn down.
I am led to believe that with the MPAA rating being changed from a PG-13 to an R-rating, the MPAA has stated that it has “pervasive scariness” unsuitable for 13-year-olds and under, while telling the producer and director that nothing needed to be changed before release. That alone proves that the film will keep you interested. The film is set for release on Aug. 26. Here is the film’s trailer.
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