The Hamiltons (2006)--3/5

On the surface, “The Hamiltons” has the look of a generic modern-torture movie. According to Netflix, it’s about a family whose “extracurricular activities tend toward the sadistic.” Above all, it’s part of the “8 Films To Die For” shovelware imprint, home of the unwatchable “Captivity.”

In “The Hamiltons,” four orphaned siblings live in a large house in a new—to them—community. People in their orbit tend to disappear.

The slow revelation of the family’s true nature is what the film is really about. Although it is a surprising film, it doesn’t have an implausible Shyamalending;* the truth can be deduced at one of many points along the way. And instead of graphic eviscerations, the film is concerned with cohesive storytelling and a general creepiness.

One opportunity for gruesome special effects is neatly sidestepped. The family keeps a violent, bloodthirsty creature locked up in the basement. (Hopefully) without giving too much away, the first sight of the creature is somehow heartwarming. In effect, the budget limitations are played for unexpected pathos.

“The Hamiltons” pays extra attention to how each family member deals with the horrors around them. Wendell is extroverted and clearly unhinged, David is parental, Darlene is goth, and Francis is awkwardly growing up. Each of these personalities is in some way reactionary to inescapable urges.


*™

Technically, this scene does occur in the movie. Trust me, it's not "Saw VIII," or whatever one they're on now.