House of Temptation

A masterfully produced independent film that depicts the extreme polarities and dualities of life through a spiritual lens, exposing us to contrasting yet insightful experiences that can ultimately bring us together or keep us apart. The psychological thriller uses the elements of mystery, suspense and religion to tell a complex story about the blind spots of lust and power. The characterizations and the script are well thought out, however, the diverse themes limit character dimensionality.

The costumes, special effects including lighting and camera work are impressive and used in creative ways to depict mysticism that allows viewers to see certain scenes from the third eye of a medium. Overall, I really good independent film to view and add to your library.

I was very much impressed all throughout the film with the presence of Maya. Jena's finesse brings the film to life, enhances the performances of the other actors, and helps them find their roles. I really enjoy Michael's performance as well. His entrance to the production rings of charm. From start to finish, he carries a swagger about him that attracts the viewers attention and locks them in to the unfolding plot. In his role as Aug, he displays a handsome energy that is impetuously magnetic in nature. As the pastor, Chris shines as evil progresses and develops itself through the infection of his community. I admire the message that Jeremiah stands for among his colleagues. I had thoughts to myself upon my first viewing of the film that said, "I agree. Bravo. This is very much real."

Like someone else said - I've no idea why this has received such a high score from other viewers. Terrible premise, abysmal acting (if you can call if that) and it moves at a snail's pace. Has the overall look and feel of a school project.

I have no idea who the folks posting all the gushing reviews are, but this is not a good film: the acting is terrible, the pacing slow, the premise maudlin. If you have absolutely nothing better to do, try and find something else to do, since this film will make nothing but regrets. The film feels like it was shot in a weekend with the director's friends and then he asked his family to come on here and post reviews. All of which is fine, but there really should be some way to mark for review obviously bogus reviews. The one comparing this to The Exorcist? Please. That should just be a red flag.

I am generally not a fan of supernatural-horror movies as there appears to be very little room for originality in them. However, the plot in House of Temptation, while derivative of a few films (Blair Witch Project, Paranormal Activity, Rosemary's Baby, many movies involving a haunted house) had enough in the way of new material to keep me interested.

The main problem with the movie, however, is the production. It feels quite cheap, like a home movie. This is mainly due to much being done on hand-held cameras. While the first person POV has worked on a few films (Blair Witch Project and Cloverfield being the best examples) it is not really necessary here. I can understand why the director used it: it's cheaper and easier and when you're a director/producer starting out, budget is a key factor. A few scenes with hand-held would have been fine, but it was overdone. This also seemed to get in the way of the plot, as the writer then had to write the script to incorporate the viewer.

The performances weren't that great, though none were atrocious (except maybe Michael Navarra...). Jena Hunt was the best of the lot: quite intense and convincing. Rest were a bit wooden at times, though seemed to get better as the movie progressed.

While not a great movie, a decent effort by producer-director Doc Zee, considering his obvious budgetary constraints.