Unraveling the Truth Behind the Amityville Horror

The Amityville Horror, a 1979 film, has captivated the public's imagination for decades. However, the movie's premise is a stark contrast to the tragic and brutal events that led to its creation. This article aims to delve into the realities behind the storied house, separating factual history from cinematic fiction.

The Tragic Tragedy

On November 13, 1974, at 3:15 am, Ronald "Butch" DeFeo Jr. carried out a bloody massacre that left six of his family members dead. The victims included his siblings, ranging in age from 9 to 18, his father, Ronald Sr., and his mother, Louise DeFeo, all brutally shot by a rifle. This horrifying act of violence was later documented in the only book that earned any royalties from the Amityville horror story—The Amityville Horror: Fifty Years of Deception.

George Lutz: Creator of the Hoax

Following the gruesome murders, George Lutz, then suffering from financial troubles, met with the former lawyer of the DeFeo family, William Weber. Weber suggested that George and his wife, Kathy, concoct a tale that would transform their lives and spawn a best-selling book and blockbuster movie. The story? George claimed their new home was haunted, and an evil entity had slaughtered his family. To make it more credible, George even borrowed from the DeFeos' tragic backstory, albeit with some deliberate differences.

The Movie's Dark Fiction

The film The Amityville Horror presented a story about a demonic presence haunting the DeFeo home. Central to the narrative was the character "Jodie," a demon-like entity shaped like a pig. The house was described as a gateway to Hell, built on an indigenous burial ground—a concept far from cliché in 1979, but now seen as a tired trope. The movie's success is monumental, adjusted for inflation, earning over three hundred million dollars, while George received a measly ten thousand dollars from his role in the hoax.

What Became of the Home?

Despite the dark and gruesome mythos surrounding the house, subsequent owners, including the current residents, have reported no unusual experiences. The house itself, now privately owned and heavily guarded, is far from a haunted relic. Instead, it stands as a silent witness to the tragic events of 1974.

The House: A Legacy of Urban Legend

The infamous Amityville Horror house has made its way into the annals of urban legends. Its peculiar design includes windows that appear to have eyes, a feature that likely added to the house's eerie appearance. However, such features are no longer common in modern architecture. The house's fa?ade, lined with dark and unsettling imagery, is a testament to the power of storytelling and media.

Conclusion: Separating Factual History from Cinematic Legend

The Amityville Horror is a prime example of how sensationalism can overshadow reality. While the house has inspired numerous reimaginings and remakes, the true story is far more tragic and horrific. The meticulous planning and filming of horror films, whether based on real events or fictionalized accounts, often times serve as a blurred line between the two.

Whether you are a fan of the original 1979 film or the numerous remakes and adaptations, it's essential to remember that the horror it evokes is rooted in a real tragedy, not supernatural occurrences. The Amityville Horror remains a cautionary tale, illustrating the power of mass media in shaping public perception.