I haven't seen the original TV film of the 70s, so I sat down to watch this with a pretty open mind and no expectations. I am sure Del Toro's film is superior than the original technically and in production values, but something was missing. Like two stones striking each other with repeated sparks but failing to ignite a fire.
The premise was great, and perfect fodder for a remake (I can imagine how the original must be like). And the creature design was old school Del Toro as well (can see the Fairy impression carried over from
Hellboy II).
But atmospheric horror films depend heavily on one important characteristic - the performance of it's lead actors. The girl was wooden and plain - even when she was scared and crying in Katie Holmes' arms it was a very unconvincing act, and somehow I didn't feel she was afraid enough. Guy Pearce literally sleepwalked through the entire film carrying just one expression - what the hell am I doing here?
The only performances of some semblance came from Katie Holmes (who outdid herself, IMO) and the guy who played the lead restorer (and falls victim). The rest of the cast was competent. Maybe that was why, even when the setting was so gothic, gloomy and dark, it just didn't have enough atmosphere. Even the background score failed to add anything to the proceedings.
A good potential wasted by nonchalant performances, IMO. Otherwise it could have been a nice little scarefest to watch after midnight.
Rated - * *