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Is House 1977 a good movie?

Writer's picture: Allan MajorAllan Major

A girl’s head floats eerily among a sea of blue faces in House (1977).
In a house where reality warps, the line between the living and the dead blurs into a nightmare of surreal horrors.

Yes, House (1977) is widely regarded as a good movie, though it’s important to understand that “good” in this context means wildly imaginative, utterly bizarre, and entirely unique. Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi, House is a surreal horror-comedy that defies conventional filmmaking, blending horror, fantasy, and absurdity in a way that has captivated audiences and critics alike.


House tells the story of a group of schoolgirls who visit a haunted house, only to encounter a series of bizarre, supernatural events. But this description doesn’t do justice to the film’s chaotic energy and inventive visual style. The movie is a kaleidoscope of strange imagery, quirky special effects, and over-the-top performances, making it a cult classic that’s as much a piece of art as it is a film.


What makes House “good” is its fearless originality. Obayashi employs a childlike logic to the film’s narrative and visuals, creating a dreamlike experience that’s both unsettling and hilarious. It’s a film where anything can happen, and often does, in the most unexpected ways. Whether it’s a piano that devours its player or a man who turns into a pile of bananas, House delights in subverting expectations and taking viewers on a ride unlike any other.


That said, House isn’t for everyone. Its eccentric style and nonsensical plot can be polarizing, and those looking for a traditional horror experience might find it too outlandish. But for those who appreciate the avant-garde and have a taste for the weird, House is not just a good movie—it’s a masterpiece of creative freedom and a must-see for fans of unconventional cinema.

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