It’s a shame how the name ‘AMITYVILLE’ became franchised

It’s a shame how the name ‘AMITYVILLE’ became franchised

Nov 28

It’s a shame how the name ‘Amityville’ became franchised over the years. The original myth, book and even the original film were pretty decent. Can you believe there have been NINE sequels/spinoffs of The Amityville Horror since the book and film in ’79? All of them rather dull and unimaginative.

I wasn’t at all surprised by the 2005 remake (amongst the remake trend) but it predictably fell flat. So, how can we rectify this? asks Weinstein Co and Dimension — they’re planning another remake. Yes, a remake of the 2005 remake of the original. Keep up.

Perhaps the question to ask is: Do we really give a shit? I guess horror enthusiasts might get excited about this news, but after that mediocre remake just-on five years ago, I’m wondering what they think they can do differently to improve on this story for audiences today. One can’t help but ponder that the recent success of a certain film about paranormal activity might have the studio(s) thinking we’re in the mood for more spooky bumps and thumps.

Looking back, the original film only sort of worked in ’79 because, at the time, people believed it was based on a true story (as the book and film itself boast). Now, however, there’s evidence to suggest the Lutz family might have been clever at connecting some dots and scoring a publisher.

I can understand the thinking behind leaning towards using a ‘known’ name to ensure a safety net for a film. But goddamnit, how about making a whole new supernatural story and kick-starting a whole new franchise. After all, it’s not like Amityville is a name worth much these days. Those sequels and that remake have tarnished it a great deal.

Source: Bloody Disgusting, Slashfilm