Cast: Liev Schreiber, Julia Stiles, Mia Farrow, David Thewlis and Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick
Director: John Moore
Rating: ***

No typical horror movie features like faint footsteps and hushed voices here. But "The Omen" still manages to send shivers down the spine.

Those who have a penchant for spooky thrillers shouldn't miss "The Omen", a remake of the 1976 original directed by Richard Donner that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

And even those who have seen the original shouldn't miss the new version because it is scarier.

There are no unnecessary twists and turns in David Seltzer's script. The story line is simple and to the point but director John Moore succeeds in heightening the sense of fear in viewers with his tactfulness.

The opening scene is not impressive. The movie opens in Vatican City where priests announce the arrival of Satan by correlating real-life disasters like the 9/11 attacks and tsunami to his birth.

But once the camera shifts to diplomat Robert Thorn (Liev Schreiber), his wife Katherine (Julia Stiles) and his secretly adopted son Damien (Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick), who is actually an evil spirit, the non-stop thrills roll on.

Thorn is promoted and shifts to Britain as the US ambassador. He moves into a sprawling English mansion with his family.

All seems fine in the Thorn household till Damien's birthday party when his nanny tries to impress the little boy with a risky stunt but dies which leaves a lingering fear in the minds of viewers.

After the accident, a suspicious looking priest comes to meet Thorn and tries to warn him about the unseen danger looming over him and his wife. He dismisses his warning till his pregnant wife is pushed to death by his young son.

From that moment on, one incident after another forces Thorn to believe the priest, who also dies in an accident.

Though the entire story is built around the little boy, the director relies heavily on his own craftsmanship to build up the right kind of suspense to keep the thrill alive. His efforts are complimented by classy performances by each artist.

Especially commendable is Mia Farrow, playing a creepy looking nanny who moves into the Thorn house to protect Damien from the world.

Child artist Davey-Fitzpatrick has also done a fabulous job... his glares scare you to death.

Though everyone knows what the film is about, it will hold your interest till the end. Don't miss it!