Hassan Zee has a new horror film called "House of Temptation". It's a film about one man's conflict of faith and the temptations of a house of horrors. My favorite characters were the main priest, Jeremiah and Maya. I liked Jeremiah and watching him deal with his inner conflict and Maya was a delightfully wicked character. Actress Jena Hunt was recently seen in Falling Uphill (another Bay Area feature film) and it was entertaining seeing her play a completely different character. Quite a range. Without revealing too much, the film has nice twists and I liked how the main family's story was left open-ended. I prefer it when the filmmakers leave it open to the audience to decide what happens next. Overall, a nice change of pace from the usual generic slashers and found footage that makes up much of horror cinema these days.
50 Reviews
Suspense, Bodega Bay and good performances
kikelomo_adedeji14 September 2014
In House of Temptation, which was filmed in Bodega Bay in Northern California, Director Doc Zee uses the device of a teenager filming his family with his new video camera to bring the audience into the story and it the audience connected and engaged throughout.
The actors are given a wonderful vehicle in which to shine. Newcomer Julian Larach, who plays Johnnie, is a natural and the camera loves him. He is real find. Totally natural, totally relaxed, and totally believable.
Jena Hunt as the sexy lead is a gorgeous and talented actress. I look forward to seeing more of her work.
The suspense builds gradually and is sustained. One of the ghosts is a young boy who is clothed only in his underwear. It is odd, unseemly, and the result is that the audience starts to get very uncomfortable but doesn't really know why. And the action builds from there.
The actors are given a wonderful vehicle in which to shine. Newcomer Julian Larach, who plays Johnnie, is a natural and the camera loves him. He is real find. Totally natural, totally relaxed, and totally believable.
Jena Hunt as the sexy lead is a gorgeous and talented actress. I look forward to seeing more of her work.
The suspense builds gradually and is sustained. One of the ghosts is a young boy who is clothed only in his underwear. It is odd, unseemly, and the result is that the audience starts to get very uncomfortable but doesn't really know why. And the action builds from there.
Very Intriguing. Very compelling.
theprince-049027 June 2015
I was very much impressed all throughout the film with the presence of Maya. Jena's finesse brings the film to life, enhances the performances of the other actors, and helps them find their roles. I really enjoy Michael's performance as well. His entrance to the production rings of charm. From start to finish, he carries a swagger about him that attracts the viewers attention and locks them in to the unfolding plot. In his role as Aug, he displays a handsome energy that is impetuously magnetic in nature. As the pastor, Chris shines as evil progresses and develops itself through the infection of his community. I admire the message that Jeremiah stands for among his colleagues. I had thoughts to myself upon my first viewing of the film that said, "I agree. Bravo. This is very much real."
An actual review from a real person
briareus-7854029 November 2019
This "movie" is bad. Really bad. I don't know who paid these people to write the reviews, but don't believe a word they're saying. The acting is terrible, the story is ridiculous, and the direction is laughable. The budget was probably 100 bucks. I only gave it a chance because these BS reviews did their job and tricked me into it. Save the time and don't torture yourself. And if for some reason you decide to watch it anyway, PLEASE come back here and give an honest rating.
Just atrocious
lukeen-567-3262988 December 2019
Like someone else said - I've no idea why this has received such a high score from other viewers. Terrible premise, abysmal acting (if you can call if that) and it moves at a snail's pace. Has the overall look and feel of a school project.
This film subverts expectation
nan-pierce19 July 2015
House of Temptation is not what it at first appears. This film is actually full of fun surprises. With some particularly strong performances from Jena Hunt as Maya, and Julian Larach as Johnnie, House of Temptation takes its characters on a mysterious journey that is much more personal and poignant than one would expect from an ordinary horror flick. Director, Hassan Zee, is not one to let camp get in the way of a human story. Rather than going for cheap scares, Zee focuses on the breakdown of a family in a surprisingly intimate way through the eyes of their teenage son. I wish more big budget Hollywood films could be this personal. Looking forward to seeing what Doc Zee does next!
A decent effort given the budgetary constraints
grantss24 March 2015
I am generally not a fan of supernatural-horror movies as there appears to be very little room for originality in them. However, the plot in House of Temptation, while derivative of a few films (Blair Witch Project, Paranormal Activity, Rosemary's Baby, many movies involving a haunted house) had enough in the way of new material to keep me interested.
The main problem with the movie, however, is the production. It feels quite cheap, like a home movie. This is mainly due to much being done on hand-held cameras. While the first person POV has worked on a few films (Blair Witch Project and Cloverfield being the best examples) it is not really necessary here. I can understand why the director used it: it's cheaper and easier and when you're a director/producer starting out, budget is a key factor. A few scenes with hand-held would have been fine, but it was overdone. This also seemed to get in the way of the plot, as the writer then had to write the script to incorporate the viewer.
The performances weren't that great, though none were atrocious (except maybe Michael Navarra...). Jena Hunt was the best of the lot: quite intense and convincing. Rest were a bit wooden at times, though seemed to get better as the movie progressed.
While not a great movie, a decent effort by producer-director Doc Zee, considering his obvious budgetary constraints.
The main problem with the movie, however, is the production. It feels quite cheap, like a home movie. This is mainly due to much being done on hand-held cameras. While the first person POV has worked on a few films (Blair Witch Project and Cloverfield being the best examples) it is not really necessary here. I can understand why the director used it: it's cheaper and easier and when you're a director/producer starting out, budget is a key factor. A few scenes with hand-held would have been fine, but it was overdone. This also seemed to get in the way of the plot, as the writer then had to write the script to incorporate the viewer.
The performances weren't that great, though none were atrocious (except maybe Michael Navarra...). Jena Hunt was the best of the lot: quite intense and convincing. Rest were a bit wooden at times, though seemed to get better as the movie progressed.
While not a great movie, a decent effort by producer-director Doc Zee, considering his obvious budgetary constraints.
Not good
Flooopdoodle19 November 2023
I have no idea who the folks posting all the gushing reviews are, but this is not a good film: the acting is terrible, the pacing slow, the premise maudlin. If you have absolutely nothing better to do, try and find something else to do, since this film will make nothing but regrets. The film feels like it was shot in a weekend with the director's friends and then he asked his family to come on here and post reviews. All of which is fine, but there really should be some way to mark for review obviously bogus reviews. The one comparing this to The Exorcist? Please. That should just be a red flag.
A Supernatural Thriller with a message
Phip81200320 September 2014
Since the dawn of motion pictures, people have used the medium to tell stories, stories of many genres and types, but the kind that has always been associated with is spirituality and faith, whether they were subtle or very straight forward. Stories not to be scowled or scoffed at, they speak to us a very deep fundamental level. The battle of good and evil, light and dark, and the relationship between God and man (and the fight for his soul). Whether we're talking about films like The Exorcist, The Rite, The Shawshank Redemption, Se7en or 8MM - They all tell tales of good (but ultimately flawed) characters who must fight for their souls, who must try to remain decent in the indecent and dark environments that surround them and torment them. These are the stories in motion pictures that are important to tell, the overtones (and undertones) that must be examined. Not just within the confines of the film, but examined within ourselves. That is what films, great films, do. They make us ask questions instead of provide us with answers. Through all the thrills and chills of House Of Temptation, at the core of it that is what this film does, as well as examine faith and family. When all is said and done, through all the supernatural and horror, all that is left at the end of the movie is faith and family, their road back to redemption and the road back into the light.
With an exciting Story and Direction HoT fulfills your every desire.
elegyofjoseph12 May 2015
Many of the high-profile films of today apply the conventional cookie cutter flash, boom, & bang. Relying on a dulled down script infused with a prominent actor or actress to fill the void that has been left, which can leave a movie lacking as a whole. This in turn allows for the creator of an Independent movie to pull back the curtain and let the rawness of their work take shape and inspire those who appreciate the refreshing experience of an independent film...
Doc Zee Direction in this film draws upon styles of the classic film era but splashes his own custom vision into his film, the screenplay by both Joshua Bane and Doc Zee is also very well rounded and the actors and actresses performance is at a high caliber. The story deals with many of the same pressure and trails that we all face in our lifetime but is driven further past the brink with the velvety influence of the supernatural in this film. As a whole the film is very entertaining and holds up extremely well to the test of modern independent horror/mystery films...
Doc Zee Direction in this film draws upon styles of the classic film era but splashes his own custom vision into his film, the screenplay by both Joshua Bane and Doc Zee is also very well rounded and the actors and actresses performance is at a high caliber. The story deals with many of the same pressure and trails that we all face in our lifetime but is driven further past the brink with the velvety influence of the supernatural in this film. As a whole the film is very entertaining and holds up extremely well to the test of modern independent horror/mystery films...
good movie ...even if not one I would usually watch
rbbrmat3 November 2016
I had the opportunity to meet the director (unknowing prior) who invited me to see the film. I through a series of conversations and sharing that horror is not really my genre of movies..was invited an opportunity to see. I found the movie to have a very heart felt piece to creating it. It felt very small scale (which is a perspective I enjoy) . The values and plot have depth in speaking about cult and supernatural and religious values and how they can shape our every day lives whether we realize or not. It had elements of suspense and references of other horror movies (found out later in Q/A and am aware horror movie buffs like that kind of aspect of homage being paid to other pieces). I will say the there was an interesting choice in character names as the family was devout Christian (though progressive) and Maya ( a Hindu reference ). I am also not easily surprised or pleasantly surprised. The way the camera was returned towards the end made me smile and left me hopeful.
Edge-of-your-seat thriller set in Bodega Bay.
tracy-105-51578612 September 2014
Doc Zee, Director of House of Temptation, as is his style, has constructed a fantastic & terrifying as well as beautifully shot thriller set in Bodega Bay. Doc Zee has woven a film that starts off with a typical Christian family, a father for a minister and a stay-at-home mother who has strong religious beliefs; they are connected and happy in their life in this small town. Then very quickly, as the film gets going and more characters are introduced, your emotions are carefully worked up to the point where they can be felt within you, tense and edge-of-your-seat kind of emotions we all love in a suspenseful thriller. Things are not what they seem in small town Bodega Bay.
I would recommend House of Temptation for anyone who loves Hitchcock-type movies or thrillers. The movie is filmed through the eyes of a teenager who is seeing his life fall apart in front of him and he has no clue why. It's shot with his video camera as he tries to document his father's upstanding life for a school project but he and his friend end up filming much more than expected, like spirits and demons who haunt an old, beautiful house with an unknown and evil past.
As was Hitchcock's style, so is Doc Zee's style, both using typical people and putting them in a setting that you wouldn't expect could be so full of terror and evil. Doc Zee has also given us a succubus for a main character which is a nice touch, something I haven't seen in a long time, some old fashioned, evil woman character, a demoness from Hell whose sole purpose is to drain the souls of men by having sex with them, this makes for a good film! Go see House of Temptation, you won't be disappointed.
I would recommend House of Temptation for anyone who loves Hitchcock-type movies or thrillers. The movie is filmed through the eyes of a teenager who is seeing his life fall apart in front of him and he has no clue why. It's shot with his video camera as he tries to document his father's upstanding life for a school project but he and his friend end up filming much more than expected, like spirits and demons who haunt an old, beautiful house with an unknown and evil past.
As was Hitchcock's style, so is Doc Zee's style, both using typical people and putting them in a setting that you wouldn't expect could be so full of terror and evil. Doc Zee has also given us a succubus for a main character which is a nice touch, something I haven't seen in a long time, some old fashioned, evil woman character, a demoness from Hell whose sole purpose is to drain the souls of men by having sex with them, this makes for a good film! Go see House of Temptation, you won't be disappointed.
A must see suspenseful thriller!
asianmusicexaminer22 September 2014
House of Temptation is a psychological thriller that is nothing sort of extraordinary. It has all of the elements that great films are made of: an enigmatic plot, suspenseful storyline, believable characters, exceptional acting, and good character development to name just a few of its many merits. Fans of the paranormal, haunted houses and the like will be way into this film. One thing that the film does NOT have is the boredom factor. I was quickly absorbed into its world and kept on the edge of my seat until its spellbinding conclusion. Set in Bodega Bay where Hitchcock filmed "The Birds" was made, House of Temptation has the potential to become a classic like the Hitchcock film. House of Temptation is one of those rare films that holds up to repeat viewing, with new layers of meaning revealing themselves with each new screening.
Complexity of Spiritual matters in an approachable film
kcreiki21 September 2014
Warning: Spoilers
This movie's storyline is well written. I was interested in the lives of the characters and what was happening to them from beginning to end. The cinematography was excellent-there was a great contrast between "daily life" scenes and "ghostly scenes," and the locations for the shoot did a lot to add to the atmosphere, mystery, and contrast of life changes in the story. In many ways, I think the locations chosen for this film were as important, if not more important than the actors, because they offered me, as a viewer, the opportunity to "feel" my way into the film and let my imagination move around in them, which is important in any "ghost story." I'd say the acting is "B" acting, and although it seemed to me many of the actors were beginners, it somehow worked for this film. Perhaps because there is a complexity of ideas in this story, the acting style, a bit clumsy and not polished, makes the story ideas a but more digestible for the general public, meaning people who may not be "into" the supernatural. That being said, the character who was the main "female, temptation" character definitely seemed in control, as she should be for her role, and she added a wonderful dynamic to the cast.
One of the most interesting things touched on regarding Spirit People in "House of Temptation" I think is the fact that "lost" Spirits, or rather those who have not completed the death transition process, can often cling together or can also be bullied together. This is illustrated in the little boy still being connected to his abuser and killer, and in general the group of Spirit People "tempting" the Minister's family.
I think that for the many messages coming thru in this film, it was a wise choice to use actors that didn't seem like such accomplished actors-there is an element in their acting that makes them seem very real still, so for the general public I thin it gives them more room to "buy into" this film and not make it seem so occult, but again, the cinematography added wonderful dreams qualities when dealing with the parts of the storyline that had to do with "ghosts," and it was very approachable and believable.
The concept of "influence" that this movie deals with, whether influences from the Spirit world, temptations from other people, influences of our emotions and moods, is dealt with in a wonderful way here: both in the details of the lives of individuals, and in a broader perspective: in how our actions affect those around us.
One of the most interesting things touched on regarding Spirit People in "House of Temptation" I think is the fact that "lost" Spirits, or rather those who have not completed the death transition process, can often cling together or can also be bullied together. This is illustrated in the little boy still being connected to his abuser and killer, and in general the group of Spirit People "tempting" the Minister's family.
I think that for the many messages coming thru in this film, it was a wise choice to use actors that didn't seem like such accomplished actors-there is an element in their acting that makes them seem very real still, so for the general public I thin it gives them more room to "buy into" this film and not make it seem so occult, but again, the cinematography added wonderful dreams qualities when dealing with the parts of the storyline that had to do with "ghosts," and it was very approachable and believable.
The concept of "influence" that this movie deals with, whether influences from the Spirit world, temptations from other people, influences of our emotions and moods, is dealt with in a wonderful way here: both in the details of the lives of individuals, and in a broader perspective: in how our actions affect those around us.
Horror lovers you will enjoy!
fqjbdtm10 September 2023
I watched this film a few nights ago and I really enjoyed it! My husband was even getting into it too and he doesn't do horror. The actors did an amazing job at bringing the story to light and really delivered. Kept me engaged the whole way through. Acting wasn't overdone and each one held their own.
I enjoyed the plot as it is very relatable with the challenges we face and temptations that are out there. Very thought provoking!
I noticed a cameo appearance and I had to rewind because I was unsure of the character but the face seemed familiar then it hit me who it was! Watch and see. Don't miss this one guys! It is a must watch!
I enjoyed the plot as it is very relatable with the challenges we face and temptations that are out there. Very thought provoking!
I noticed a cameo appearance and I had to rewind because I was unsure of the character but the face seemed familiar then it hit me who it was! Watch and see. Don't miss this one guys! It is a must watch!
Great Film!
karissakaydedecker12 September 2014
Doc Zee's House of Temptation brings you alongside a family's journey of faith, temptations and fear when life's struggles and evil seductions jade our eyes. Following through the eyes of a teenage boys new camera, we are taken through corridors and creaking cracks of a devilish plot that hope to entrap an innocent family sworn to God inside the walls of a hundred year old house. While this house posses many stories throughout its menagerie, they aren't aware of its cultish plan until its seduction has taken control. As the film unfolds, there is no telling what will temp you.
I loved the creativity of the cinematography. The different ways of panning the scene and even having some shots out of focus made it much more real for the viewer to understand that we are just the eyes of the boy with the camera. I thought it was very effective to have different shots rather than just the boy with the camera in order to lose yourself in the character development without having the camera shake.Maya' s acting was very devilish and I thought that actress was perfect for that character.
The father had great character development starting from being a heavenly pastor, to all the drinking and disappearances, to the piano scene where the audience really understands how much he is losing it, till the very end where he breaks through the devils veil and understands how much he loves his family. The actor performed realistically and had great emotion when needed.
The basement scene was my favorite. It heightened all my senses and was the best scene, in my opinion, that gave full effect of the fear and ghostly air in the house. The light and sound effects were on point.
During the séance it was very important for the viewer to grasp the fear the family and friend were feeling when they saw this entirety happening to the father. The heavy breathing behind the camera controls the audiences breathing and gave a nice touch to the suspense.
I loved the creativity of the cinematography. The different ways of panning the scene and even having some shots out of focus made it much more real for the viewer to understand that we are just the eyes of the boy with the camera. I thought it was very effective to have different shots rather than just the boy with the camera in order to lose yourself in the character development without having the camera shake.Maya' s acting was very devilish and I thought that actress was perfect for that character.
The father had great character development starting from being a heavenly pastor, to all the drinking and disappearances, to the piano scene where the audience really understands how much he is losing it, till the very end where he breaks through the devils veil and understands how much he loves his family. The actor performed realistically and had great emotion when needed.
The basement scene was my favorite. It heightened all my senses and was the best scene, in my opinion, that gave full effect of the fear and ghostly air in the house. The light and sound effects were on point.
During the séance it was very important for the viewer to grasp the fear the family and friend were feeling when they saw this entirety happening to the father. The heavy breathing behind the camera controls the audiences breathing and gave a nice touch to the suspense.
Who are all these people? Are we one of them?
hanjune21 September 2014
Hitchcock is one of my favorite movie director. So when I saw that this movie was filmed in Bodega Bay, I was thinking about his movies as I watched "House of Temptation". But soon after, I forgot about Hitchcock and found myself following the characters and the plot of the movie on all it's own merit. I've spent hours and hours on some awful independent movies because not only was the whole film bad but some were just down right pretentious because some directors were clueless in the story telling. However much kudos to Doc Zee for weaving simple at times but much more complex characters into a movie with a coherent plot and direction. As I watched the progression of each characters from lighthearted everyday mode into something more sinister for some, I found my self wanting to find out where they might be headed. Earlier I mention some bad movies. Some were bad enough that I couldn't care less what happens at the end but with this director, he had me till the end with such flair of visual mastery. In the end, I was perplexed as to what I just saw. I thought about how a "good" people and a "good" religion can take a twist into a path of despair and destruction. Some unknowingly and some with misguided intentions. Sometimes we have to look deep into our soul and ask what it is that we desire and how it affects what we have around us. "House of Temptation" lays out such questions spread out in a quick jerky camera work combining black&white and color on the silver screen with the characters that you want to love and some you want to slap their face.
A gem of a scary story paying homage to Hitchcock.
lolonac17 September 2014
This is a very clever movie that pays homage to Hitchcock. In fact it takes place in Bodega Bay. When a teenager gets a camera, he chooses to make a film with his dad as the subject. The viewer is drawn into the lives and family, and watches as things begin to go wrong. Then temptation begins to pull the family apart.
I found myself at the edge of my seat waiting for what will happen next. If you are a Hitchcock fan, this is the movie for you. Every day people in everyday lives where the unexpected occurs.
Doc Zee is a new film maker on the scene who deserves a second look! I look forward to seeing more of his smart and stylish movies in the future.
Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!
I found myself at the edge of my seat waiting for what will happen next. If you are a Hitchcock fan, this is the movie for you. Every day people in everyday lives where the unexpected occurs.
Doc Zee is a new film maker on the scene who deserves a second look! I look forward to seeing more of his smart and stylish movies in the future.
Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!
Story of a family experiencing evil and temptation
Laila12325 February 2015
As a native Californian, I was thrilled in recognizing where some of the shots took place in Bodega Bay and I would really like to go back and visit and see the locations where some of the scenes were shot. This really added to the intensity of the set with its already immense history of previous Hitchcock's film , The Birds.
The actor who portrayed Johnnie did a wonderful job and had great continuity in his character throughout the entire film. I also really enjoyed the fact that this movie depicts good triumphing over evil. The soundtrack accompanied the movie very well by enhancing the already eerie mood as well as keeping me further intrigued throughout the movie. I could see the pastor in my church who has a quiet and calm demeanor, much like the pastor in the movie. I couldn't possibly imagine our pastor, being the faithful and kind man that he is, falling into such temptation and change as did the pastor in the film. The movie shows that anyone can be vulnerable to temptation, even someone of a very powerful faith and belief.
The actor who portrayed Johnnie did a wonderful job and had great continuity in his character throughout the entire film. I also really enjoyed the fact that this movie depicts good triumphing over evil. The soundtrack accompanied the movie very well by enhancing the already eerie mood as well as keeping me further intrigued throughout the movie. I could see the pastor in my church who has a quiet and calm demeanor, much like the pastor in the movie. I couldn't possibly imagine our pastor, being the faithful and kind man that he is, falling into such temptation and change as did the pastor in the film. The movie shows that anyone can be vulnerable to temptation, even someone of a very powerful faith and belief.
Local SF Film Crafts Potent Mix of Drama and Horror
joshua-bane13 September 2014
San Francisco Doctor turned Director, Hassan Zee, has diverged from his usual palette of films with his latest endeavor, the horror film 'House of Temptation', an engaging ride that simply demands audiences look deeper into the intertwining folds of its narrative.
Having cut his chops on dramatic storytelling, often inspired by his own Pakistani background, Doc Zee chose to expand his filmmaking skills in a new direction, crafting 'House of Temptation' into a film that carries the dramatic punch, but quickly delves into a tale ripe with horror. We follow the struggles of a family as seen through the eyes of Johnnie, a 15 year old aspiring filmmaker and son of Jeremiah, a beloved pastor both by his congregation and his wife, Annette. The film pulls its first trigger when Jeremiah is suddenly let go from his position, and lands its first hit when the mysterious character of Mia is introduced, who offers the family a place to stay in her late grandparents aging home during their transition from Pastor's housing. Mia begins to offer more than just her home, however, and soon becomes a respite for Jeremiah as his faith in The Lord begins to waver.
The theme of Faith, it's inherent power in tandem with the family's struggles to keep it strong, reigns throughout the film, driving the plot forward. To build this theme, the film hearkens back to tales of religion, primarily the story of Abraham and Ishmael as it's basis. All of this benefits strongly from its cast not only being top notch, each one seemingly stealing screen time from one another as the film progresses, but for debuting one of its strongest leads, the house itself. The power of faith finds it's antagonist in the framework of the house, which quickly becomes a metaphor for the evil that exists within us all, and the threats that evil can pose. It's a film viewers delight to witness the actors push their characters through the temptations the house has to offer, the danger that Mia presents, and the ultimate battle of good versus evil, finally waged not with an action set piece, but set within the minds and hearts of the film's leads.
'House of Temptation' sews in a variety of engaging plot twists and side characters into its primary yarn to keep things fresh throughout the film's runtime, which Doc Zee crafts into an incredibly potent package. His skills since his previous effort, the award winning Bicycle Bride, have evidently expanded, and his approach to the horror genre is not to be missed. Viewers are likely to come for the surface level drama, like Annette's struggle to keep her faith against Jeremiah's everyman descent from grace, but House of Temptation is truly strong with its deeper layers that evoke conversation and further thought beyond the cinema. For instance, be sure to look for clues into Mia's true nature, even after the film seemingly wraps up. In a city often known for its ripe potential as a setting for film, but not to always breed its own craftsmen, it's refreshing to know that one of San Francisco's most inspired inhabitants has taken it upon himself to be both a strong voice and a strong hand in making films that matter. If his previous films are any indication, and if House of Temptation is a sign of what's to come, San Francisco is certainly lucky to have Doc Zee.
Having cut his chops on dramatic storytelling, often inspired by his own Pakistani background, Doc Zee chose to expand his filmmaking skills in a new direction, crafting 'House of Temptation' into a film that carries the dramatic punch, but quickly delves into a tale ripe with horror. We follow the struggles of a family as seen through the eyes of Johnnie, a 15 year old aspiring filmmaker and son of Jeremiah, a beloved pastor both by his congregation and his wife, Annette. The film pulls its first trigger when Jeremiah is suddenly let go from his position, and lands its first hit when the mysterious character of Mia is introduced, who offers the family a place to stay in her late grandparents aging home during their transition from Pastor's housing. Mia begins to offer more than just her home, however, and soon becomes a respite for Jeremiah as his faith in The Lord begins to waver.
The theme of Faith, it's inherent power in tandem with the family's struggles to keep it strong, reigns throughout the film, driving the plot forward. To build this theme, the film hearkens back to tales of religion, primarily the story of Abraham and Ishmael as it's basis. All of this benefits strongly from its cast not only being top notch, each one seemingly stealing screen time from one another as the film progresses, but for debuting one of its strongest leads, the house itself. The power of faith finds it's antagonist in the framework of the house, which quickly becomes a metaphor for the evil that exists within us all, and the threats that evil can pose. It's a film viewers delight to witness the actors push their characters through the temptations the house has to offer, the danger that Mia presents, and the ultimate battle of good versus evil, finally waged not with an action set piece, but set within the minds and hearts of the film's leads.
'House of Temptation' sews in a variety of engaging plot twists and side characters into its primary yarn to keep things fresh throughout the film's runtime, which Doc Zee crafts into an incredibly potent package. His skills since his previous effort, the award winning Bicycle Bride, have evidently expanded, and his approach to the horror genre is not to be missed. Viewers are likely to come for the surface level drama, like Annette's struggle to keep her faith against Jeremiah's everyman descent from grace, but House of Temptation is truly strong with its deeper layers that evoke conversation and further thought beyond the cinema. For instance, be sure to look for clues into Mia's true nature, even after the film seemingly wraps up. In a city often known for its ripe potential as a setting for film, but not to always breed its own craftsmen, it's refreshing to know that one of San Francisco's most inspired inhabitants has taken it upon himself to be both a strong voice and a strong hand in making films that matter. If his previous films are any indication, and if House of Temptation is a sign of what's to come, San Francisco is certainly lucky to have Doc Zee.
Jenna Hunt has a real presence, a quality!
jb-4809327 February 2015
I can't stop thinking about the actress Jenna Hunt in the film, the House of Temptation. It's not just her look, her sexiness but it's her presence on the screen that captured my interest and kept it.
There is a quality captured by the director in her that haunts me. I want to see the film again to recapture what it was about her that stuck with me. Her personality was right for the character she played. The character transitions from a friendly, helpful congregant to a temptress bordering on the scary, evil women of my dark past.
I have personal memories of Bodega Bay when I was there for a day some years ago. In the city center there was a book signing by Tippi Hedron. It was a windy day like I saw in the film and she was lovely. The edge of the earth feeling i had being there...it's on a bluff that seems to reach out into the ocean was well captured by the film. I recall the church on the hill in the House of Temptation. Good effort.
There is a quality captured by the director in her that haunts me. I want to see the film again to recapture what it was about her that stuck with me. Her personality was right for the character she played. The character transitions from a friendly, helpful congregant to a temptress bordering on the scary, evil women of my dark past.
I have personal memories of Bodega Bay when I was there for a day some years ago. In the city center there was a book signing by Tippi Hedron. It was a windy day like I saw in the film and she was lovely. The edge of the earth feeling i had being there...it's on a bluff that seems to reach out into the ocean was well captured by the film. I recall the church on the hill in the House of Temptation. Good effort.
A Story about the Lust in our Hearts.
lightkeep77718 March 2015
Warning: Spoilers
I found this movie to be a very palatable and a refreshing perspective of something that is truly American. In a country with a 40-50% divorce rate, we can see first hand how a few bumps in the road can have a family driving in separate cars, or living in separate houses. Temptation as we grow older takes a few swings at the peace in our lives and it can be an uphill battle but we hope for the best and try to find resolution. I feel that this movie grabs from our reality and holds it in it's hands in a very human way. Not desperate for gore or sensationalism, the movie has a resolution that feels true. Aside from a few technical errors, the movie remains engaging, without any effort needed to remain attentive. The acting is on point and as the movie unfolds, the actors fall comfortably into their characters. Chris Pflueger (Jeremiah) feels a little forced in the early minutes of the film, but it only strengthens his character as a Pastor and as he descends into darkness he wins you over and fits like a glove. Pastors have to put on a pleasant show every Sunday and it makes me believe he is fresh in the community. Jena Hunt (Maya) is exactly the tempting, smooth rolling eye candy you'd want her to be as a succubus, with blips of hysteria to drive the character home. Julian Larach (Johnnie) gives the steady young heart to the film and as one of the 'Eyes' that we view the story through, he gives some of his innocence to the audience with his friend Trevor Guyton (Miles). Shelley MacKay (Annette) is a flashy bee, that floats through and survives temptation and indignation, the better part of our curious natures. Michael Navarra (Aug) sneaks in smooth and unreadable but treacherous for his smaller part. The rest of the cast is colorful and diverse, as is their wardrobes and backgrounds. Effective use of lightning as the movie moves towards climax gives the director clout, with some Hitchcockian undertones and a flicker of 'The Shinning'. A few chuckle moments, including a lighthearted cameo from the Directer, the movie finishes with a good beat. Illustrating in a metaphor for how we explain the darkness and curiosity in the betrayals of our lives and how evil never dies, I find this flick to be an easy watch with a good feeling to finish as a reward. Definitely recommended.
-LightKeep 'Casual Movie Buff.'
-LightKeep 'Casual Movie Buff.'
Incredible film--dark, twisted, and unique
slwilkerson6215 October 2014
I am not a fan of horror/suspense films--I usually leave that for my kids--but they talked me into going with them to see the screening of House of Temptation and I have to admit I am VERY glad they did! What a wonderful film! I was on the edge of my seat through most of it! The characters were sharp and likable, the plot was great with lots of twists, the actors were well-cast--I thoroughly enjoyed it! The house in which much of the movie was shot was really cool and creepy--exactly what I would think a House of Temptation would look like. The director, Hassan Zee, had such a unique perspective in this film--the camera angles and his vision was truly refreshing! I hope he does more movies--I will not have to be told twice to go see the next one!
Good suspense film . . .
russodance25 October 2015
The movie is more of a suspense film than horror film. There are no jumping "boos" waiting in the corner to "get you". With that said, the story and plot are well written. The film is thought provoking. Overall the movie is well done. It was fun to watch. The writing is well though out. The movie is the perfect length and there is not one scene that is not necessary to the plot. The film is well edited and flows smoothly. The actors are good. I enjoyed the son's acting and thought that his performance is very good and realistic. The father's role is well acted. The evil temptress has a wonderful evil laugh, is pleasing to the eye and is perfect for the role. The other actors are good. I enjoyed everyone's performance. I enjoyed the camera work. I liked how the effects are real, not overdone and not over-the-top. I enjoyed the "message" of the film and how it is interwoven into the plot. I recommend this movie. Enjoy . . .
Very Real but a Fantasy at the same time
petermyers78612 February 2015
A confused family is victimized by a nefarious cult. The story was very well crafted and plot driven.I appreciated the father starting to drink after losing his job. He was very convincing.I liked the character of the succubus, the father, and the son.I didn't find the wife very appealing.I was amused. There were parts of the film which made me laugh and that is important in good story telling. The more I got into the deeper layers of the story, I felt that it was very real but a fantasy at the same time. I felt the filmmaker laughing at these stereotypes just a little bit and I laughed with him.I think an intelligent western audience will enjoy House of Temptation.A simple and charming but also surreal update of an old folk tale that isn't so out of date, after all.
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