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What's with all the low reviews? This is a classic Halloween-appropriate ghost story. All the elements of a Friday night popcorn movie, with spirits and spiritualism, thrills, and even a few bodies.

Julien Beck is brilliant as the meanie. JoBeth Williams is a super mom, and Craig T. Nelson as America's dad.

After reading the bad reviews here, I was surprised. It's genuinely Shirley Jackson! The story and the mood both. If you want a traditional horror movie, of course this won't reach you. But if you read the (very short) book, you'll be pleasantly surprised, as I would.

I would also strongly recommend that you also read (or probably re-read) her short story masterpiece The Lottery before viewing this movie. It will put you in the Shirley Jackson mindset.

Kudos to cast and crew.