Retro Film Review: A House in the Hills (1993)
Sometimes, although very rarely, movies can unintentionally serve as some form of autobiography for its actors. A House in the Hills, 1993 low-budget thriller by Ken Wiederhorn is one of such examples. The protagonist is played by Helen Slater, actress who used to enjoy the peak of her career in late 1980s and early 1990s, although she didn't get the roles she had truly deserved. This film, unfortunately very obscure, is one of those rare examples that truly illustrate her talent, unused by Hollywood.
In the film, Helen Slater plays Alex Walker, struggling Hollywood actress who wants to make her big break in the soap operas. But, until that big break happens, she is forced to take many job offers, including house sitting for one of Los Angeles millionaires. In an empty house she gets a wild idea to put her acting abilities to the test by impersonating the millionaire's wife. However, that idea backfires when the exterminator (played by Michael Madsen) knocks at the door. After coning his way in, exterminator takes Alex as hostage and reveals himself as an ex con. Alex is suddenly found herself in dangerous situation, but surprises continue to happen.
Screenplay by Miguel Tejada-Flores and Ken Wiederhorn is hardly a masterpiece, but the sheer quantity of unusual, yet believable plot twists is enough to keep audience at the edge of a seat. The ending is also rather unconventional and makes this film really refreshing in a multitude of more formulaic low budget thrillers. Most notable assets in A House in the Hills are the actors. Helen Slater literally carries this film on her shoulders, providing us with charming yet believable character. And, of course, in one scene she actually reveals the reasons of her not so spectacular career advancement in Hollywood. Her partner Michael Madsen is reliable in his role of quiet,and charismatic thug with the heart of gold. Slater and he have a great chemistry together. On the other hand, some of the minor characters aren't that effective (Jeffrey Tambor overacts in his episode). But this is the hardly reason enough for the audience to avoid this charming little, yet unjustifiably forgotten B-grade gem.
RATING: 7/10 (+++)
(Note: The text in its original form was posted in Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.movies.reviews on June 6th 1999)
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