Ever since all the hype about Insidious had begun that i've been wanting to watch the movie. And for several reasons: first, it is directed by James Wan, who won it's fame in my world through movies like Saw or Dead Silence (and i liked them both). Then, of course, the screenplay by Leigh Whanell (another Saw veteran, and quite good in acting). And beyond this there was only a catchy trailer and a good synopsis.
But i must say, Insidious didn't quite match the high expectations i had upon it. Roughly speaking (or writing, but that doesn't really matter now), my first thought of Insidious was that we had one hour of boredom and 40 minutes of almost non-stop action. Yet, this is what i would like to name a 50-50 movie, since it is amazingly balanced.
The story is great, of course, a bit old and there's nothing really original about it - i could tell some scenes quite similar to movies like Paranormal Activity (without the whole home-made movie stuff, and oh!... does the name Oren Peli ring a bell?), The Exorcist (what a freakin' classic idea) or even The Exorcism of Emily Rose. This of course, in subjects that concerned all types of supernatural events and priests and desperate families. Still, it's a story with a lot to it, that made good use of the scare-factor (with a huge hand from the soundtrack and incredible acting). It doesn't leave any loose ends, being also easy to follow and understandable, what makes of the screenplay the highest point of Insidious.
Now moving on to the not-so-good part. There were a few things about this movie that really "grinded my gears". And the first one was the absolutely annoying soundtrack (yeah, it was creepy and scary and all that stuff - but still pretty annoying). Then, hearing Rose Byrne screaming (quite a performance indeed) - she was too loud and histerical, and her highest notes weren't the best (okay, i just didn't liked her voice, period). And, last but not least... Those special effects left quite a bitter taste in my mouth. I mean they were good, but they weren't flawless, and a certain demon's characterization definitely left a lot to be desired.
Overall, i suppose Insidious is a good movie (and it will make you grab your pillow, chair, or anything/anyone next to you). Not great, perfect or flawless, but still pretty damn good.