Witchtrap

Witchtrap is an American horror movie from 1989, directed and written by Kevin Tenney. It is about a team of paranormal investigators who are hired by a wealthy businessman to rid his home of malevolent spirits. However, they quickly realize that the ghostly presence is not the only thing they need to fear.

The movie starts out with a sinister tone as we see a young woman, searching for something in the dark. She reaches for her flashlight, and as she flicks it on, we see a ghostly figure right behind her. Screaming in terror, she runs out of the house, leaving the supernatural being behind her. This sets the eerie and spine-chilling mood for the rest of the film.

The story follows the character of Vance, played by James W. Quinn, a psychic investigator who has been hired by Mr. Crowley, a businessman, to help deal with the poltergeist activity in his estate. Vance is joined by a small team of other paranormal experts, which include camera operator Terri (Kathleen Bailey), technician Joel (J.P. Luebsen), and psychic-cum-medium Ginger (Judy Tatum).

As the team prepares equipment to document the ghostly phenomena, Vance goes into a trance-like state and receives a warning message from beyond. The spirits of the mansion are not pleased with the intrusion of the investigators, and they make it known by attacking the team with telekinetic force and various physical assaults.

The more the team investigates, the more they reveal about the mansion's dark past. Slowly, they start to find clues that suggest an evil history related to a previous owner, who practiced black magic.

The pace of the witchcraft-related violence and bloody imagery increases, and the team must find a way to exorcise the evil entity before it's too late. The crew is infiltrated by a demon that begins to attack the members, one by one, causing them to panic and lose their rationality.

The film poses the question - is this a spiritual haunting or is it more of a human one that can be resolved from the past transgressions made by the previous owner?

The movie's editing techniques feature various distorted cut-away images that add further to the horror-experience. These surreal scenes are combined with practical effects of grisly slaughter meant to shock and horrify the viewers.

The cinematography and setting really add to the film's atmospheric tension. The crew's frequent use of fog to create an eerie ambiance surrounding the manor, and the unsettling silence as they investigate the house, only heighten suspense.

The acting in the film is well executed, particularly with James W. Quinn's character, Vance, who plays the experienced, level-headed psychic expert convincingly. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and they balance well among each other despite the increasing tension of the story.

The music in the movie is an interesting mixture of electro-beat tunes mixed with a more classic horror sound. The background score enhances the sense of unease and urgency throughout the flick.

Overall, Witchtrap is a must-watch for any horror aficionado. Its intriguing plot, well-constructed narrative, and spine-chilling horror sequences create an unforgettable cinematic experience. The movie's eerie atmosphere, practical effects, and surreal scenes make it stand out from other horror flicks of its time. It's a thrilling ride for anyone who dares to watch it.