Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)

Dark's Pandemonium Carnival has come to a small town with the proprietor, Mr. Dark (Jonathan Pryce) promising to make the town folk's dreams come true. Inquisitive young boys Will and Jim (Vidal Peterson and Shawn Carson) quickly discover that the price is much to high after school teacher, Miss. Foley, dies. With the help of Will's father, the boys fight to rid the town of the pandemonium threatening to destroy them all.

Perfectly macabre and altogether creepy, Something Wicked This Way Comes maintains its horror despite sometimes dated special effects. Author Ray Bradbury wrote the screenplay; he's maintained some of the best features of the book as this Disney feature comes to life. Hardly for the family, the film is oddly atmospheric and gloomy. But there is this surreal factor that is fascinating.

Johnathan Pryce is spine-tingling evil. With soul-piercing eyes, his Mr. Dark makes me cower. A young Pam Grier stars has his evil mistress. Jason Robards plays Will's father. The two young actors really leave much to be desired when it comes to skills. Fortunately, director Jack Clayton weaves a creepy story that distracts from them. James Horner's score also does wonders to create a memorable film.

Something Wicked This Way Comes is one I'd like to see remade--especially in the days of CGI. In the hands of a gifted director, a remake would be genius. As it stands, the film is equal parts Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Arachnophobia.

Just for Tom: 2½ stars