Save your money for something good and enjoyable

If you like to be scared, if you like to laugh, and if you like to learn a thing or two at the movies, this absolutely cannot be missed.

Let me be very fair here, this is not the best movie in my opinion. But, this movie is fun, it has purpose and is very enjoyable to watch.

Each character in this movie — down to the smallest one — is an individual rather than a type, prone to spontaneous changes of mood and sometimes amusing outbursts of pettiness or ill humor.

The viewing of the DVD release of THE HAUNTING OF PEARSON PLACE fulfilled high expectations which had developed over several months as a result of reading favourable comments as the production had developed.The creepy atmosphere is set within a few seconds during the opening credit sequence and is subsequently built up in a gradual fashion as the process of the examination of the nooks and crannies of the extensive, dilapidated old building is carried out. Fleeting glimpses of apparitions and flashback sequences contribute to the generation and air of mystery. The building seems to develop a personality of its own. The building selection in this instance proves to be a perfect one and the location scout has performed a first class job in finding this particular one.I was particularly impressed with the character construction and background story which revealed both the strong and weak points of the personalities involved through a mixture of descriptions during dialogue and the viewers own perception in the initial scenes. Events unfold to reveal the emergence of doubts and uncertainty which undermine the assumed strengths of the abilities of the characters and the maintenance of relationships with each other as they struggle through a series of events and circumstances to separate reality from imagination. All four lead performers - Ken Arnold, Julie Price, Regen Wilson and Tracy Teague - manage to convey the mounting strain on the relationships in a highly commendable manner and reveal that they have a clear appreciation of the requirements of writer and director Michael Merino. This was the first time that I had viewed the work of any of these four fine actors and I was very favourably impressed. I will certainly be looking out for more films featuring Regen Wilson who was outstanding.In a film such as this it is obviously necessary for many scenes to be on the dark side and this is where I must compliment the crew members responsible for the lighting and effects. Even in the scenes mainly lit by lamp and fire, the main elements of room setting and characters' faces were visible thanks to good technique and effective positioning of incidental lighting.I was initially attracted to the production of this film when I noted that the cast list included Joe Estevez and Suzi Lorraine - a very accomplished and experienced duo who can be depended upon to produce the goods as required. Joe in the role of caretaker captures the attention with his combination of well timed glances, verbal asides and expressions coupled with a tinge of humour whenever he mysteriously appears in a scene before vanishing as quickly as he arrived. Suzi's appearances are not frequent but when she does emerge into a scene it is suddenly and always with maximum impact. She really knows how to make the sparks fly as she demonstrates an ability to make the most effective and dramatic use of screen time.The successful result of this film arises from a combination of an accomplished cast, excellent storyline and its development, intelligent directing and a very suitable structure called Pearson Place. The conclusion certainly provides scope for a welcome sequel!

The Haunting of Pearson Place was one of those films that on it's surface seems as if its going to just be an old school haunted house film. I'm here to tell you it was much more than that! I enjoyed this movie so much I watched it twice (there were two private screenings) last night. Michael Merino is a slight of hand Director who doesn't smash you over the head with his film, he gets into it. Lead actor Ken Arnold is so focused its almost scary. Regen Wilson is a boiling pot about to explode, with Julie Price as sexy and tempting as can be. Leading lady Tracey Teauge is the perfect 21st century woman...thinking she can have it all, and somehow deserves it. She gets whats coming to her!The cinematography and score were so beautiful my ears and eyes melted. Hollywood films only wish they had the style and class of this film. Smooth, creepy and intelligent.

The other night I was invited to the private screening of The Haunting of Pearson place, and was asked to please review the movie on IMDb by the DIrector. I've never written a review, so here goes nothing as they say!I really like the film, it wasn't as bloody or gory as I was hoping (I'm a big fan of the SAW series) but over all the film was rock solid. I also like a little more TnA...but that's just me...Horror films generally mean, bad acting and some nudity. This film had great acting, and the story was real solid. The actors were also a bit older than you'd see in horror movies...they were in their 30's and up. But I recommend the film because its freaky, weird and funny. It was also beautifully shot, and as a hobby photographer I was really impressed with it's composition and style. The D/P and Director seem to work really well together.Over all a really solid film, with less kills and nudity than a horror film, but smart and it makes you think about what's going to happen rather than showing you.

The Haunting of Pearson Place is a film for the intelligent and fun loving film buff...this film reminds me of The Shining and The Others but with a bit more humor. A great movie with a wonderful cast. The Direction and camera work are just spot on. Joe Estevez shines as Bob. His creepy and askew character just makes you want to wash up. Ken Arnold was a solid anchor that kept the audience wondering what might happen next. Suzi Lorraine, although a bit under used (To be fair I'm a big Suzi Lorraine fan and she should be in every frame) is wild as the haunting Founder. Nadia Williams plays Suzi's sister (The Head Nurse) and she's wrenching yet beautiful. Mick McGuire is awesome as Jim, Tracy Teague is lovely, and so believable as the nagging wife. Kelley Slagle crept me out, her voice and inflections were just spine tingling. And last but far form least the out of this world Regen Wilson steals the show. This is a Hollywood film, on a diet budget. Michael Merino is someone to be watched. I can't wait to see what he comes up with next. I highly recommend this film if you enjoy Super-natural, Horror films...not long on gore, but long on smarts.