Second Sight Films, out now

After the death of his wife and daughter in a car crash, composer John Russell leases an old mansion from a historical society, but instead of being a place to reflect and rebuild his life, a supernatural force makes it clear that he’s unwelcome.

Peter (Species II, Space: 1999) Medak’s atmospheric 1980 haunted house movie gets a high definition upgrade with Second Sight’s Blu-ray release. Helped immeasurably by George C Scott’s rock solid performance, it’s one of those decidedly old-fashioned horror films where you could legitimately say ‘they don’t make ’em like this any more.’ All manner of familiar tropes are used to establish the menace – doors opening and shutting, loud banging, body in the bathtub, hidden room – but they feel fresh because they are all new to Scott’s John Russell, as he begins to doubt his own sanity.

Talking of sanity, who in their right mind would think that this decrepit, falling down mansion would be ideal for a man getting over such a tragedy? And unlike the Lutz family in The Amityville Horror or the Freelings in Poltergeist, Russell doesn’t own the place and could walk away at the first sign of trouble. I know we’re in the ‘why would you go alone into the basement?’ territory, and its best to throw common sense to the wind and enjoy the build up of tension that’s more The Innocents or The Haunting than modern-day jump scares. Unfortunately, Scott is so strong in his role that you never fear for his life and he takes one narrative leap of faith to another and endures the next tick of a box in this list of clichés – seance, body buried elsewhere, family secrets, house catches fire.

The new 4K scan and restoration really brings the picture to life, and this disc also features a commentary with director Peter Medak and producer Joel B. Michael. Feature ‘The House on Cheesman Park’ looks at the real-life ‘haunted house’ that the movie is based on, and there’s also an interview with music arranger Kenneth Wannberg in ‘The Music of The Changeling’.

‘Building The House of Horror’ is an interview  with Art Director Reuben Freed, there’s a travelogue visit by ‘The Psychotronic Tourist’ to the movie’s filming locations, and finally Mick Garris (Sleepwalkers) discusses its influence on his work. If you pick up the special edition release you also get a CD of the soundtrack, a poster and booklet of writings and notes.

Verdict: A comprehensive package that covers off all aspects of this minor league haunted house film. It looks as good as it ever has, and it’s a fine reminder of how good George C Scott (appearing here with real-life wife Trish Van Devere) was. More spooky than terrifying, it might be a little tame for modern audiences, but collectors or those who remember being spooked by it in their youth should have a nostalgic blast. 8/10

Nick Joy