Thirteen Ghosts (2001)

Also known as ’13 Ghosts’, or stylized ‘Thir13en Ghosts’.

Director: Steve Beck

Starring: Tony Shalhoub, Shannon Elizabeth, Embeth Davidtz

When Cyrus Kriticos, a very rich collector of unique things, dies, he leaves house and fortune to his nephew and his family. While they’re inside, they find they are not alone.

I love this movie! This is one of my most memorable (not necessarily favorite) horror movies of all time – thanks to the film’s incredible production design.

Even if you’re not a horror fan, do yourself a favor and watch this for the fantastic house design. You can’t help but marvel at what they’ve accomplished. The film is set in a house entirely made of glass, and glass walls constantly shifting to reveal – or conceal – passages.

I loved the simply premise. Be warned, though, the film delivers highly effective jump scares, with creepy monsters. The make-up and practical effects are out of this world! It simply is quite stunning. The subtle humor elements are really funny and never overbearing. There’s loads of suspense and enough gore to satisfy any horror fan. The editing is also excellent.

I enjoyed Tony Shalhoub from ‘Monk’ fame in a very different role. We follow him and his family as they are shown his inheritance from an uncle he hardly knew. However, having just arrived at the house, things soon turn for the worst, and they must find a way out as the house locks them in. ‘Thirteen Ghosts’ is a unique horror film that will have you holding your breath from beginning to end. Note: The ending might offend conservative, religious viewers.

‘Thirteen Ghosts’ deservedly won the Best Makeup/Creature FX award. It was also nominated for Best Horror Film. At the box office, it earned $68.4 million on a $40 million budget.

Would I watch it again? Hell, yes!