R.L.Stine’s “The Haunting Hour†adds another solid episode this season with “The Weeping Woman.â€
Powered by a multi-faceted story that appeals to children and adults, it’s great television that both scares and entertains.
The story blends Stine’s classic horror ideals with a family-friendly television format almost perfectly. At the same time, some of the scares are legitimate ones and will cater to those who appreciate the work of Alfred Hitchcock.
The theme of the story revolves around a family in need of their father. Away at work all the time, his family suffers emotionally. The matriarch of the family, Suzie (Enid-Raye Adams) is believable as a mother lost without her husband. Her emotions have an effect on the rest of the house and its inhabitants, smart-mouthed but sweet son Chad (Collin MacKechnie) and shy Hanna (Alissa Skovbye). The kids try to make due, but they’re obviously affected as well.
Things don’t change when Chico (Modern Family’s Rico Rodriguez) has to stay over for the weekend.
Relatable as the kid thrust into a supernatural situation, Rodriguez and his young co-stars eventually get to the bottom of this “Scooby Doo†meets “Twilight Zone Tale.†The “safe†lesson at the end and happy, yet eerie ending make for signature Stine storytelling.
But don’t be fooled by the child-friendly disposition of the show. With the central theme of the house and how it feeds off of negative energy, literature buffs will feel like they’re watching D.H. Lawrence’s “Rocking Horse Winner†with a side of “Paranormal Activity.â€
The emotional suspense and buildup to the climax shows the depth of Harold Hayes Jr. and Craig S. Phillips’ script. This episode will keep everyone’s attention, even if they weren’t fans of Stine growing up or, have never been introduced by his work. Kids on the other hand, may find it enough to their liking that it’ll become a part of their weekly television diet. With good acting, a solid message and fun storytelling, everyone will find something here to enjoy.
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