True-crime writer Ellison Oswalt is in a slump; he hasn't had a best seller in more than 10 years and is becoming increasingly desperate for a hit. So, when he discovers the existence of a snuff film showing the deaths of a family, he vows to solve the mystery. He moves his own family into the victims' home and gets to work. However, when old film footage and other clues hint at the presence of a supernatural force, Ellison learns that living in the house may be fatal.
Sound
Christopher Young's score plus 'Gypsy' still haunts nightmares.
Practical Effects
The Super 8 films are genuinely disturbing practical magic.
Acting
Ethan Hawke's unraveling desperation is pitch-perfect.
Director
Scott Derrickson
Ethan Hawke
Ellison Oswalt
Juliet Rylance
Tracy Oswalt
Vincent D'Onofrio
Professor Jonas
James Ransone
Deputy
Fred Thompson
Sheriff
Clare Foley
Ashley Oswalt
Michael Hall D'Addario
Trevor Oswalt
Victoria Leigh
Stephanie Stevenson
Blake Mizrahi
Christopher Miller
Cameron Ocasio
BBQ Son / Killer
Danielle Kotch
Lawn Girl
Ethan Haberfield
Pool Party Boy
Nicholas King
Bughuul / Mr. Boogie
Tavis Smiley
Anchor
Rachel Konstantin
Mrs. Stevenson (uncredited)
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Sinister kicked off the 'elevated horror' boom alongside Insidious, proving Blumhouse could mint franchises from modest budgets.
The 'lawnmower scene' was nearly cut for being too graphic; test audiences made it the film's most talked-about moment.
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