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A Comparative Analysis: Which Horror Movie Reigns Superior, Poltergeist 1982 or Amityville Horror?

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In the rich tapestry of classic horror movies, two stand out as iconic and influential: POLTERGEIST (1982) and Amityville Horror (1982). This article will delve into a detailed comparison between these two classic films, exploring what makes each one stand out and which one might reign supreme in the hearts of horror enthusiasts.

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Introduction to Poltergeist (1982)

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Produced and directed by Tobe Hooper, POLTERGEIST (1982) is a pivotal entry in the horror genre. The film tells the story of the Procter family, who are terrorized by evil spirits that have made their home in their own home. What sets POLTERGEIST apart is its groundbreaking approach to the display of supernatural entities. Prior to 1982, most haunted house movies relied on psychological horror and implied supernatural elements. However, Hooper and his team took the unprecedented step of explicitly showing ghosts and other supernatural beings, making the film a visual and emotional knockout.

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Visual Effects and Critical Acclaim

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The visual effects in POLTERGEIST were groundbreaking for their time. The film's production was so advanced that it even earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects in 1983. Despite this, the film didn't win the award, instead being outshone by E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial—another masterpiece from the same year.

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Exploring Amityville Horror (1982)

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Similarly, Amityville Horror (1982), directed by William J. Cox, is another landmark entry in the horror genre. The film is based on the infamous 112 Ocean Avenue murder mystery in Amityville, New York. Amityville takes a more psychological approach to the supernatural, focusing on the mental and emotional terror experienced by its characters. Unlike POLTERGEIST, which delves into explicit displays of supernatural beings, Amityville uses subtle, atmospheric techniques to heighten the suspense and horror.

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Comparison of Themes and Impact

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Themewise, both films tackle the essence of haunting and supernatural terror but in different ways. POLTERGEIST provides a vivid and tangible visual of the supernatural, allowing the audience to see and experience the horrors directly. This approach can be more visceral and impactful, as it offers a clearer picture of the terror unfolding.

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In contrast, Amityville Horror relies more on the psychological and emotional impact. The film uses jump scares, eerie sound design, and atmospheric music to create an overarching sense of dread. This method can be more insidious and long-lasting, as it taps into the fear of the unknown and the unseen.

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Reception and Cultural Impact

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Both films were critically acclaimed and had a significant impact on the horror genre. POLTERGEIST set new standards for visual horror and became a cultural phenomenon, influencing subsequent horror films for decades. Amityville Horror also left its mark, reviving interest in the Amityville mythos and inspiring a variety of movies and books based on the same premise.

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In recent years, POLTERGEIST has even received a reboot in the form of an newer POLTERGEIST series on M. Television, which continues to explore the legacy of the 1982 film. Both films remain relevant and are held in high esteem by horror enthusiasts and critics alike.

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Conclusion

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The question of which film is superior, POLTERGEIST or Amityville Horror, is subjective and often debated among horror fans. POLTERGEIST's explicit visuals and advanced visual effects set a standard for the genre, while Amityville Horror's psychological approach and subtle horror techniques create a lasting and haunting impact. Ultimately, the choice boils down to personal preference and the type of horror experience one is looking for. Both films are essential viewing for any discerning fan of classic horror, and their legacies continue to influence the genre today.