The Omen (1976) - 8 stars out of 10

The Omen (1976) - 8 stars out of 10

"The Omen" is one of those classic horror films that focuses more on giving you nightmares than a few cheap scare.  The premise alone is enough to send chills down your spine, and this film simply takes that premise and develops it in a straightforward way.  The film does have some awesome shocking moments (like the hanging and the tricycle) but gathers its momentum from pure intensity and creepiness (particularly Mrs. Baylock, the nanny).  The true genius of this film is the intrigue of its story, growing weirder and weirder at every turn and yet remaining completely believable.  Gregory Peck does a great job of portraying his internal struggle to follow logic or believe in this Satanic evil.  The birthmark scene is incredible and the film's climax feels very personal, placing each audience member in the midst of Peck's decision as Damien suddenly appears to be an innocent child.  "The Omen" is not the scariest movie ever made but its frightening musical theme will haunt your thoughts any time that you think about abortion or notice a young child acting out of the ordinary.