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and home. Meanwhile, James and Kristen have hidden in a bedroom with a loaded shotgun pointed at the door, waiting to shoot one of the strangers as they passed by. As soon as the audience puts two and two together, it is clear what is going to happen. Holding our breath, we watched as their friend slowly crept through the halls, trying to be of some assistance, only to be shot in the head as he passed the room. In a world full of gore, blood, and shock value, the use of suspense in this film was reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock and the classic horror films of yesterday.

Finally, the true power of "The Strangers" was the way in which it touched on such a real fear. A seemingly simple night is completely turned upside down, and the problems of the failed engagement are meaningless when it came to fighting for their lives. Clearly, these two are powerless in their own home, a fear that any home owner faces. Everyone likes to think that should someone break in they would be prepared, but this film is sure to shatter even the strongest foundation. The fact that the two are killed in broad daylight is even more startling; for some reason, everyone feels that the only time attacks can really occur are during the evening. Though most of the action occurs at night, the actual murder happens during the early morning, while cars drive slowly by and the world begins to wake up. It's very startling, and brings the reality of the situation home.

While "The Strangers" isn't going to win any Oscars and certainly isn't the best film of the year, it's good for what it is. There really aren't any surprises; you go into the film knowing exactly what is going to happen to these two doomed characters. However, it brings true suspense back to a world where blood and guts rule, and shines among other films with similar premises. I wouldn't call "The Strangers" a must see, but it's worth checking out if you're in the mood for a scare; just don't watch it while you're home alone.

Learn more about this author, Sarah Huth.
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