US (1976): Horror
My Review: 3.5 stars out of 4
111 min, Rated 18, Color, Available on videocassette and laserdisc
Effective but sensationalistic horror piece on the coming of the "anti-Christ," personified in young son of Peck and Remick, Americans living in England. Discreet use of gore and a now-famous decapitation, for those who like that kind of thing. Jerry Goldsmith's score won an Oscar. Followed by three sequels beginning with DAMIEN - OMEN II (see below) and followed by THE FINAL CONFLICT.
US (1978): Horror
My Review: 3.5 stars out of 4
107 min, Rated R, Color, Available on videocassette and laserdisc
DIRECTOR : Don Taylor
Sequel to huge hit of 1976 is less effective, still has shock value from grisly murders, plus good work by Holden. Best scene is Ayres' death under an icy lake. Scott-Taylor is the demon child; Holden and Grant his stupidly unsuspecting kin. Taylor took over directing from Michael Hodges, who worked on screenplay. Followed by THE FINAL CONFLICT.