2010
Rated: R for strong bloody horror violence, language and a brief sexual situation,
Genre: Drama Horror Thriller Suspense Romance
Directed By: Matt Reeves
Written By: Matt Reeves
Overture Films
Running Time: 1:56
Review by: Shawn Savage
Review Date: 10/19/10

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LET ME IN

 

"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.

 

 

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