“You moved the headstones but you didn’t move the bodies!”
synopsis
Directed by Tobe Hooper (with notable creative influence from Steven Spielberg), Poltergeist tells the story of a suburban family whose home becomes haunted by malevolent spirits. When their young daughter is pulled into another dimension through the television, the family seeks help from paranormal investigators.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
This is blockbuster horror done right. It blends Spielbergian warmth with escalating supernatural chaos. The film moves briskly from playful hauntings to genuinely disturbing sequences. It’s accessible yet unnerving, grounded in family dynamics rather than cynicism. The practical effects still hold charm decades later. It’s not as psychologically dense as some modern horror, but it remains iconic and effective.
A nostalgic group watch. Perfect for stormy evenings.
Absurdist's Corner
After rescuing their daughter from another dimension, the family decides to stay overnight. And Mom draws a bath. Confidence level: remarkable.
fun facts
Real human skeletons were reportedly used in the pool scene.
The film was a massive box office hit in 1982.
It sparked urban legends about a “Poltergeist curse.”