Phantasm (1979)

19 October 2020

Technically this is Phantasm: Remastered (1979), because J.J. Abrams got director Don Conscarelli to restore this cult classic. After seeing The Tall Man (Angus Scrimm) in his iconic form on the title graphic under Amazon Prime I decided to give it a watch.

I can see why it left such an impression on Abrams: while visually very dated (phone booths, cars and hairstyles) there's a stylistic charm that is strangely timeless. The acting is campy but regardless holds your attention without feeling like wasted filler. The MacGyver-y Mike paired with the stupidity of "Stay in the house" older brother Jody makes for a weird combination of strange character choices with clever story progression.

It was raw and independent, and I've found I have a soft spot for those labors of love like Carnival of Souls or House. I don't know if it's perfect, but it's a really solid film for me. 9/10