So similar in plot and tone to the French chiller Ils (2006) that its often considered a remake, The Strangers tells a simple story and tells it well, with minimal dialogue and an emphasis on atmosphere. Director Bryan Bertino is clearly familiar with Carpenter, Craven et al, but hes learnt from them and isnt content merely to duplicate shots. Young filmmakers, take note. Its a very simple, very basic home invasion tale, far more bare bones than, say, Youre Next or The Purge. Bertino isnt interested in high concept storylines or clever twists and he eschews the comically over the top gore of Alexandre Ajas Haute Tension in favour keeping the focus on the main characters and their struggle to survive. By refusing to identify his killers, whose faces remain hidden behind masks throughout the film, Bertino makes them more mysterious and scarier. When Liv Tyler asks why theyre doing this to her, the reply comes, Because you were home.
Ian Watson is the author of 'Midnight Movie Madness', a 600+ page guide to "bad" movies from 'Reefer Madness' to 'Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead.'
