THE OMEN
1976,
20th Century Fox,
111 min,
USA,
Dir: Richard Donner
Director Richard Donner's breakthrough film was the best of the inevitable demonic possession thrillers that flooded theaters in the wake of THE EXORCIST's success. A riveting blend of studio respectability (with a classy cast that includes Gregory Peck and Lee Remick) and exploitation gusto (in the form of some of the most creative death scenes this side of Argento), this story of a couple's discovery that their cute little boy is the Antichrist still has the power to shock. An escapist roller-coaster ride with a very dark edge, this is one of the most unabashedly entertaining films of the 1970s. Award-winning cinematography by Gilbert Taylor (STAR WARS) and an Oscar-winning score by Jerry Goldsmith. Also features David Warner and “Dr. Who's” Patrick Troughton.