Actors: Marlon Wayans, Essence Atkins, Cedric the Entertainer, Nick Swardson, David Koechner
Directors: Michael Tiddes
Rated: R (Restricted)
Studio: Universal Studios
Release Date: April 23, 2013
Run Time: 86 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1/2 out of 5 stars
Ever since I saw “Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice”, I have been a fan of Marlon Mayans. And who doesn’t love “Scary Movie”? With found-footage films taking over Hollywood in recent years thanks to “Paranormal Activity”, it paved the way for this latest parody from Wayans. This film does parody but plays out more like a film that a bunch of stupid skits. The film also co-stars the very funny Cedric the Entertainer, Essence Atkins, Nick Swardson and David Koechner. They all give some great performances each with some great laugh of loud moments. Overall, I really enjoyed this film and it was filled with some great laughs. Can’t wait for next winter for “A Haunted House 2”. Bring it!
Official synopsis: When overactive man-child Malcolm (Marlon Wayans) takes the plunge and lets girlfriend Keisha (Essence Atkins) move into his house, he quickly senses they’re no longer alone. Videotaping a series of paranormal events, Malcolm is shocked to discover the love of his life carries more than your average relationship baggage: she’s possessed by an evil spirit. Malcolm enlists the help of priest/ex-convict Father Williams (Cedric the Entertainer) to exorcise the demon from his girlfriend before it ruins his relationship… and his sex life.
Universal has release yet another impressive release. “A Haunted House” comes as a Two-Disc Combo Pack: Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy + UltraViolet. Universal never cuts corners with giving their viewers options and always comes through with great releases like this one. The film is low budget yet the 1080p transfer really looks sharp and clear. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track also delivers for the laughs and lands the jokes well. The worst part of this release is the special features or features, I should say. There is only one short extra called “How to Survive a Paranormal Presence”. I would have figured a production like this would have been able to drum up a ton of great extras. I mean not even a blooper reel?
