From the beginning, Poltergeist 2.0 has potential. Its premise was always a winner, and there’s a strong core cast working to draw us in. Kenan creates a compelling and unique connection with his film and audience – the first act impresses.

Yet, a reliance on jump-scares and clear-as-day CGI greatly inhibit this film. Its second and third act achieve an overwhelming blandness, forcing Poltergeist to fall in places it should soar.

It’s a shame as you can sense the promise here. Cutting this film back to the core creepy elements, you’ve got a horror classic; actually, you’ve got the original.

Rockwell and DeWitt are solid and there’s fresh blood in this reboot at first. Yet, the dependency on lazy scare tactics neuter this reboot, making you yearn for the original.

RATING: 2/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Sam Rockwell, Rosemarie DeWitt, Jared Harris, Saxon Sharbino

DIRECTOR: Gil Kenan

WRITER: David Lindsay-Abaire

SYNOPSIS: A remake of the 1982 classic featuring a family whose suburban home is haunted by evil forces. When the terrifying apparitions escalate their attacks and hold the youngest daughter captive, the family must come together to rescue her before she disappears forever.