Staunton Hill

Staunton Hill is a 2009 horror film that has successfully kept its audience on the edge of their seats through its unnerving storyline and brilliant performances. Directed by Cameron Romero, son of legendary horror filmmaker George A. Romero, the film offers an adrenaline-fueled experience packed with unexpected turns and shocking revelations. The cast includes Kathy Lamkin, Cristen Coppen, B.J. Hendricks, and David Rountree, who all contribute substantially to the terror-filled ambiance of the film.

The movie is set in the year 1969 and commences with a group of five friends - Tara (Cristen Coppen), her boyfriend Boone (David Rountree), siblings Jordan (Paulo Benedeti) and Toni (Christine Carlo), and their friend Noah (B.J. Hendricks). This group sets out on a hitchhiking journey to Washington D.C. for a peaceful anti-war protest. The protest symbolizes the spirit of unity, love, and brotherhood, all of which soon turn into unimaginable terror.

The friends get a ride from a stranger, but soon their trip becomes a nightmare when their van breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Stranded, they come across an old and isolated farmhouse for shelter, which is on Staunton Hill. Owned by the Staunton family, led by the matriarch, Louise Staunton (Kathy Lamkin), they welcome the group reluctantly, arousing suspicion in the minds of the hitchhikers.

The ominous environment of the farmhouse is well-captured, intensifying the horror element. The weary travelers soon find themselves trapped in an unforeseen nightmare as night falls. Unbeknownst to them, the family harbors a dark, menacing secret, turning the innocent farmhouse into a terrifying trap.

The movie does an excellent job of blending suspense, terror, and elements of psychological horror. The screenplay contributes substantially to its storytelling, providing a backstory without diverting the central plot. The movie also does a fantastic job of photographing the countryside, intensifying its ominous feel through its skillful cinematography.

Staunton Hill is more than just a typical horror film. It captures the essence of dread through its atmospheric and visual horror, rather than relying heavily on gore and visual effects. Moreover, it shines a contrasting light on the ethos of the 1960s, highlighting the paradox between the tranquil anti-war protests and the horrifying incidents that unravel in the recluse of Staunton Hill.

Kathy Lamkin is impressive as the matriarch, Louise Staunton, with her character etched out deeply, projecting an eerie calmness that adds to the horror. Her performance is spellbindingly creepy, sending chills down the spine of viewers. The friendship dynamics amongst the young travelers are effectively portrayed, adding to the emotional distress when they find themselves in a life-threatening situation. Each character brings their own strengths and weaknesses which keeps the audience engaged through its steady pace.

The movie's score blends harmoniously with its horror sequences, amplifying the terror and suspense onscreen. The eerie silence, interrupted by sudden jolts of music, sets the perfect mood and adds significantly to the overall anxiety-provoking ambiance.

Directorially, Cameron Romero shows his prowess in the horror genre through his intricate storytelling techniques and meticulous attention to detailing. Influences of his father's filmmaking style are evident but he brings his unique perspective to the screen, offering his audience a fresh take on hillbilly horror.

To sum it up, Staunton Hill is a well-rounded horror film that provides an intense cinematic experience. It is much more than a flick about a murderous family. The characters are not flat or one-dimensional but bring a depth to the narrative. It encapsulates a tense atmosphere from beginning to end, making it a truly haunting horror film. This movie isn't for the faint of heart, but it's well worth the watch for horror enthusiasts who appreciate a good scare and well-developed plot concocted into one film.