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The Omen
1976 111 min United States of America, United Kingdom R 18+
★8.1
Horror, Thriller
Director: Richard Donner
Trailers
EN
Teaser
EN
EN
EN
Description
Immediately after their miscarriage, the US diplomat Robert Thorn adopts the newborn Damien without the knowledge of his wife. Yet what he doesn’t know is that their new son is the son of the devil.
Budget:
$2.8M
US Gross:
$60.92M
Worldwide:
$60.92M
Starring
Gregory Peck
Actor
Lee Remick
Actor
Harvey Stephens
Actor
Awards
Academy Awards 1977
— Best Original Score
Saturn Awards 1977
— Golden Scroll – Best Horror Film
Golden Globe 1977
— Best Debut
Academy Awards 1977
— Best Original Song
BAFTA 1977
— Best Supporting Actress
Key opinion
The 1976 version of The Omen is widely regarded as a quintessential piece of 1970s horror, celebrated for its atmospheric tension and iconic musical score. While some critics view it as a dated or uneven foundational text, the consensus highlights its ability to generate dread through psychological unease rather than excessive gore.
| Score | Jerry Goldsmith’s Oscar-winning score is essential to the film's success, effectively crafting a haunting, demonic atmosphere. | |
| Emotion | The film successfully cultivates a lasting sense of superstitious dread and psychological horror, avoiding reliance on excessive gore or modern CGI. | |
| Acting | Gregory Peck delivers a strong, professional performance, though some viewers find his casting as a young father slightly implausible. | |
| Acting | Harvey Stevens' portrayal of Damien is widely praised for his uncanny, angelic-yet-sinister screen presence, though opinions on the overall effectiveness of the child antagonist vary. | |
| Pacing | The pacing is viewed by many as a masterclass in slow-burn suspense, while others perceive the film as occasionally sluggish or dialogue-heavy. | |
| Originality | The film is hailed as a foundational genre classic that defined the 'demon child' trope, yet some critics argue that subsequent films and the passage of time have rendered its impact less novel. |