THE OMEN (1976)

As soon as it became clear that I had been unsuccessful in my bid to get tickets to see An American Werewolf in London at London Zoo courtesy of Volkswagen, I decided that I had to celebrate Halloween with a couple of classic horror films.

First up was The Omen, having seen it featured on Mark Gattiss' brilliant 'The History of Horror' on BBC 4, and finding the entire Omen Pentology for £10 in HMV.



My girlfriend had an irrational fear of the thought of seeing this film, I'm not sure what she had heard or what she though would happen but she seemed to be convinced that this was The Exorcist's evil brother.

But she loved it.

It's story is now steeped in popular culture with references from horror films and spoofs over the years including a fondly remembered nod in Only Fools and Horses. An American Ambassador and his wife may or may not be parenting the son of Satan. A simple set-up but delivered so fantastically every viewing wows me.

It's expertly paced by Richard Donner (this is the film that launched him into the big time, before Superman, Lethal Weapon and The Goonies). The tension is built gradually before bursts of violence and shocks that are now fully established as some of the most famous scenes in film history. The impaling scene in Bishops Park, the decapitation of David Warner, both of Lee Remick's falls. These are the scenes that everyone talks about and will rightly never forget, but it's bits in between these moments that are important. They gradually bring you into the story and give you an emotional connection to the characters. Donner doesn't show his hand too soon either, you are left wondering during the early stages whether this is all in the minds of the characters.

There is something else that lifts this above above other films of this type, and that is Gregory Peck. The original choice for the role was Charlton Heston, and although he is a fine actor and a fantastic leading man, to have someone of the gravitas and talent of Gregory Peck leading you through this story is a coup for Donner but pure pleasure for the viewer. You are with him every step of the way and it elevates the film.

Then the ending...oh the ending. You think you know whats happened, you expect the credits to roll and our ordeal to be over....and then it hits you.

If you've never seen this film, you must make time for it. A fantastic psychological chiller that jumps out at you and never lets you rest. There aren't many films that have iconic actors, scenes, music that all culminate in an iconic film, it's themes of religion still resonant 34 years on.

Unforgettable.