Released in 1977, ‘Hausu’ (AKA ‘House‘) challenges traditional horror norms by seamlessly blending horror with comedy. The film, directed and produced by Nobuhiko Obayashi, takes a standard horror trope and turns it on its head. This is not your standard horror cult classic.
It follows a simple premise, a young girl and her friends visit her aunt’s home, only to be devoured by the house itself. There are bizarre and macabre encounters in every room. Each room harbors bizarre manifestations of the macabre. They encounter disembodied heads and possessed household items. Everything from the piano to the household cat, plays a part in the sinister intent. By the end of this movie you don’t know whether to be scared or laughing.
Film History
Toho Studios initially suggested the film to Obayashi. He drew inspiration from his daughter Chigumi and collaborated with scriptwriter Chiho Katsura. There was a two-year hiatus due to a lack of willing directors, but Obayashi persisted. In the end, he secured the opportunity to direct it himself. Filming took place on one of Toho’s expansive sets without a storyboard. This resulted in a unique and visually striking cinematic experience.
Despite initial negative reviews in 1977, “Hausu” became a box office hit in Japan. Its fortunes changed with a wider release in North America in 2009 and 2010, gaining favorable reviews and a dedicated cult following for its unique blend of horror and comedy.
One of the standout elements is the visually stunning and experimental cinematography, employing surreal and vibrant visuals, stop-motion, animation, and special effects. The result is a living painting, with every frame as a work of art, adding to the film’s unique charm.
“Hausu” (aka House) remains a cinematic oddity, captivating audiences with its playful blend of horror and comedy. The film’s unique visual style and charming performances have secured its status as a beloved cult classic, offering an unforgettable journey into a whimsical haunted house where the supernatural meets the absurd.
If you enjoy Cult Classic Horror then check out a local horror convention and get a chance to meet some of the cast and crew of these great movies.
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