Valerie on the Stairs
Valerie on the Stairs is another in the Masters of Horror anthology, that is slowly being doled out like methadone to junkies. This was probably my least anticipated entry in the series, due to largely talentless and over-employed director Mick Garris. Garris, who has cinematically butchered many of my favorite horror stories over the years, actually manages to redeem himself a little with this entry.
The story is about a wannabe writer who moves into a house for unpublished writers, a house where they can live for free until they manage to get something published. While he’s there, strange things begin to happen, like hot chicks naked on the stairs, bumps in the night, and a horny beast played by Tony Todd. The film toes the line between reality and imagination and it is quite a bit more intellectual than most of the Masters of Horror episodes, which automatically puts it a cut above the majority of the anthology.
Mick Garris actually managed to impress me with his direction. Garris manages to capture some fairly interesting shots and the look of the film is very professional. While many of the scenes may not be filled with interesting imagery, the lighting and use of shadow are entertaining enough to keep from getting bored.
The cast is fairly entertaining. Christopher Lloyd plays an eccentric writer perfectly… and he seems to be made for the part. Tony Todd is also super cool looking as “The Beast” a mythical demon that likes boobs, torture, and killing. The main character is played by largely unknown actor Tyron Leitso. His performance isn’t going to win any awards but he is serviceable as the protagonist.
Valerie on the stairs is interesting because it is a story about writing and all the foibles and eccentricities of writers. The film focuses on the obsession of the people in Highberger House. While it may be light on gore, the philosophy behind the movie is what will really attract people to it… plus there’s a chick that shows her boobies a bunch.
Final Synopsis: This is one of the better Masters of Horror episodes. Don’t be thrown off by the fact that Mick Garris directed it… it’s very un-Garris like. I say buy it if you’re a horror fan… if you’re not a horror fan just give it a rent.
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