|
"Let Me In" is one of those rare occasions where not only is it worth
mentioning, It's worth recommending. Despite a few moments of pure
Americanization, the film basically unfolds in the same manner as "Let
the Right One In." The story follows Owen, a lonely kid, going through
the nasty divorce of his parents at home, and constant bullying at
school. While spying on his neighbors one day, he notices Abby, played
by the amazing Chloe Moretz (Kick-Ass). Abby is a strange girl, walking
barefoot through the snow with what Owen can only assume is her dad.
After a few awkward encounters, the two become infatuated with one
another, and from here, the story really sinks it's teeth in you. While
"Let Me In" is most certainly a horror film, much like the original, the
real focus of the story is the relationship between these two young
lovers. There is some real on-screen chemistry between Owen and Abby, so
much so that it's almost impossible to be disgusted, even at their
lowest point.
Both young actors
do a fantastic job at portraying their roles. Your film is only as
strong as your actors, and it's usually a hard sale when it comes to
child actors.
|
Chloe
impressed the hell out of me in hit girl, and has done so
once again with her performance in "Let Me In." It's hard to
ignore her enthralling on-screen presence. She has the
potential to be one of the greats. The mood created by "Let
Me In" is dark, dreary, and beautiful. Set in a snowy
winter, the backdrop of a frigid winter adds a creepy factor
to an already creepy story. A lot of the time when directors
aim to set their film in that period, it feels tacked on,
and more like a gimmick. |
|
 |
The end result that
we are given by director Matt Reeves is up there with Ti West's "The
House Of The Devil" as far as feeling genuinely eighties goes. "Let Me
In" is one of those rare films that will appeal to both die-hard fans of
the genre, and those that just really enjoy a good story. The horror
elements are prevalent enough to maintain it's genre status, even among
purists, while the dramatic way in which the story unfolds will be sure
to please even those that are looking for a touching love story. Yes,
"Let Me In" is a remake, and most of the time, that's reason enough to
skip it. I implore you though, don't be stubborn and miss out on this
experience just because you're trying to send a message to Hollywood.
I'm as sick of the remake silliness as much as the next guy, but I'm
glad I squashed all of that and went to see this film anyway. If
anything, you should flock to the theater in droves. If you want to send
a message, send the message that if you're going to make a remake, THIS
is how it's done.
Hollywood, while we
would so very much rather you would give us some original horror films,
if you're going to continue the remake parade, take note, as this is one
of the most competent remakes ever unleashed.
|