Certificate: Originally rated

Director: Richard Donner

Release Date: 25 June 1976

Tagline: It is the greatest mystery of all because no human being will ever solve it.

Main Cast:

Robert Thorn … Gregory Peck

Lee Remick … Katherine Thorn

Billie Whitelaw … Mrs Baylock

Harvey Stephens … Damien

A true cinematic classic. It’s one of those rare instances when the film is just as good as the book. Even after all these years and several viewings it still has the power to create a real feeling of unease. The scenes at Windsor Safari Park are especially powerful, as the young Damien is taking delight in seeing the animals, but they are somewhat less than delighted to see him, much to his very real disappointment.

It’s this depiction of innocence together with demonic undertones that makes it a very powerful film. This is going to be one of the more ridiculous sounding sentences that I’ve ever written, but here goes!  Damien is not aware that he is the Antichrist, and come the ending where his ‘father’ has to murder him, you can’t help but feel for him.

The Omen is a masterpiece, and should be seen by all!

Rating: