Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, October 15, 1994 TAG: 9412160016
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: B12 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: MIKE MAYO CORRESPONDENT
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
For openers, most of the characters are playing themselves. They are the actors, filmmakers and studio executives who are involved in the creation of a work in progress, "Wes Craven's New Nightmare." Craven has not finished the script yet, but Robert Englund is definitely interested in the project. So are producers Marianne Maddalena and Sara Risher and New Line Cinema chairman Robert Shaye.
Heather Langenkamp, star of the original film, needs to be persuaded. Things have not been going well for her. Of course, there are the earthquakes that upset everyone, but there are also nightmares that parallel her film work, frightening phone calls and ominous letters. Her young son (Miko Hughes) is suffering from similar nightmares and possibly something even more serious. When she learns that her husband (David Newsom) is secretly working on new special effects for Craven's project, she's really scared.
Upon that premise, Craven builds an intricate construction. In part, it's about the act of storytelling and the power that some stories have. References to Hansel and Gretel are well-taken. They bring up the responsibility of storytellers to their audience, particularly when children are involved.
Kids love horror stories (and films), but which ones are appropriate? Are those stories and films harmful, or do they provide a necessary outlet for childhood fears? Obviously, Craven believes in his work, but this film is not an apology for the excesses of the genre. It presents several opinions and doesn't let any one outweigh the others.
In the last reels, Craven returns to the simple, effective thrills of a good horror movie. From a harrowing freeway scene to the wild finale, he delivers what horror fans want to see.
The special effects, a key ingredient in Craven's films, are up to his best. The acting isn't quite as good. Heather Langenkamp's performance is uneven and flat at times. Her young co-star Miko Hughes is excellent.
In the end, Craven's serious approach to his craft may not be enough to satisfy his critics, but it's certainly a refreshing spark of originality for a genre that's fallen on hard times. "Wes Craven's New Nightmare" closes the door on "Elm St." Given the ambitions he displays here, his next nightmare might be even better.
Wes Craven's New Nightmare ***
A New Line release playing at the Salem Valley 8. 108 min. Rated R for graphic violence, bloody special effects, strong language.
by CNB