The Omen

February 06, 2007

The Omen (1976) starring the immortal Gregory Peck and directed by Richard Donner was recently remade but why tamper with a good thing? The original is a classic hands down.

A United States Ambassador, Peck, is in Italy when his wife gives birth to their son. Their son dies during birth and the priest of the hospital offers Peck another child who's mother died during birth. Only Peck would know that the child is not his and to spare his wife Peck agrees to take the child. Flash six years ahead and Peck's son, Damien, is a cute young boy but people keep dying around him.

This film has a lot of creepy images and characters. The loyal to Damien nanny is probably my favorite played by Billie Whitelaw, from the moment she shows up you know you can't trust her. Her performance sets a staple for loyal protectors of the "child" in horror movies to follow. David Warner, a favorite actor of mine, gives a stunning performance as photojournalist who uncovers the connections between Damien and the killings. Of course one has to mention the immortal Gregory Peck. His performance as the concerned husband and father is the very foundation of this film. His quest for answers which leads him across Europe comes to a truly horrific conclusion. 

Steer clear of the remake and get the original Omen.

Click here to read the staff review by Mania.