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The Omen #1
অশুভ সংকেত
ডেভিড সেলজার, জোসেফ হাওয়ার্ড, গর্ডন ম্যাকগিল-- তিনজন লেখক লিখেছেন 'দি ওমেন' কাহিনির তিনখণ্ড । এবার পাচ্ছেন একত্রে ।
মার্কিন ডিপ্লোম্যাট রবার্ট থর্ন নিজের অজান্তে পা দিল পিশাচ-সাধকদের ফাঁদে । দত্তক নিল একটি সদ্যোজাত শিশুকে ।
বেচারা জানে না, দত্তক নিয়েছে সে আসলে পিশাচ-পুত্র ডেমিয়েনকে ।
শুরু হলো এক ভয়ানক অশুভ কাহিনি ।
ধীরে ধীরে বেড়ে উঠল ছেলেটি । প্রচণ্ড ক্ষমতা অর্জন করে হয়ে উঠল অপ্রতিরোধ্য । এখন বুকে মন্ত্রঃপূত ছুরি বসিয়ে তাকে হত্যা করা ছাড়া আর কোন পথ নেই ।
কিন্তু কে করবে সেটা?
মার্কিন ডিপ্লোম্যাট রবার্ট থর্ন নিজের অজান্তে পা দিল পিশাচ-সাধকদের ফাঁদে । দত্তক নিল একটি সদ্যোজাত শিশুকে ।
বেচারা জানে না, দত্তক নিয়েছে সে আসলে পিশাচ-পুত্র ডেমিয়েনকে ।
শুরু হলো এক ভয়ানক অশুভ কাহিনি ।
ধীরে ধীরে বেড়ে উঠল ছেলেটি । প্রচণ্ড ক্ষমতা অর্জন করে হয়ে উঠল অপ্রতিরোধ্য । এখন বুকে মন্ত্রঃপূত ছুরি বসিয়ে তাকে হত্যা করা ছাড়া আর কোন পথ নেই ।
কিন্তু কে করবে সেটা?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1976
504 people are currently reading
40030 people want to read
About the author
David Seltzer
17 books198 followersDavid Seltzer (born 1940) is an American screenwriter, novelist, producer and director, perhaps best known for writing The Omen (1976), and Bird on a Wire (1990). As writer-director, Seltzer's credits include the 1986 teen tragi-comedy Lucas starring Corey Haim, Charlie Sheen and Winona Ryder, the 1988 comedy Punchline starring Sally Field and Tom Hanks, and 1992's Shining Through starring Melanie Griffith and Michael Douglas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,279 reviews
May 16, 2023
“The Omen” by David Seltzer is one of those novels that for decades now, I’ve heard of but never actually took the time to read. I’ve seen bits and pieces of the movie over the years but have always wanted to read the novel just to get the true experience. Now that I finally went on this hellish ride, my goodness, I regret not reading this sooner. I now see why this is as big as it is in the world of horror.
Before I jump into my review, I found some trigger warnings I wanted to share so you’re aware ahead of time. In “The Omen” there are trigger warnings around miscarriages, self-harm, suicide, pedophilia, violence against a newborn, and abortion. If any of these topics trigger you while reading, please do not read this novel.
Moving along, I loved reading the author’s note on how he came to write “The Omen” as it was a nice way to start things off. As I started this novel, I loved all the creepy and intense moments that hits you right from the start. Needless to say, this is all about Damien, and every single scene he’s in was pretty damn scary.
Seltzer’s writing is fantastic and all the religious references were very well written. As I kept reading, there was a ton of suspense and tension which made this a genuine page-turner. The sheer demonic horror was great and the atmosphere was incredible as it’s really easy to get spooked out while reading this due to how brilliantly it was written. You can literally feel the evil get progressively deeper with each page turned.
Once I got to the 80% mark, it was such a fun and chaotic rush to the end that I could not put “The Omen” down. I had no idea what would ultimately transpire and the ending completely blew me away. It was pure madness and such a wild ending that I was utterly left in a state of shock. You know a novel is great when you’re left with your jaw on the floor because the ending was that incredible and leaves you horrified.
I give “The Omen” by David Seltzer a perfect 5/5 as this is a horror masterpiece and a must-read for every fan of the genre. It’s a great story filled with several disturbing horror moments and is truly an iconic novel that simply checks all the boxes of everything you want and then some. It’s one of those situations that if you love horror, this is something you need to experience at least once in your life. That ending is something that will stick with me for many years to come. Damien is now living rent-free in my head and will for a while, I can guarantee that. 666.
Before I jump into my review, I found some trigger warnings I wanted to share so you’re aware ahead of time. In “The Omen” there are trigger warnings around miscarriages, self-harm, suicide, pedophilia, violence against a newborn, and abortion. If any of these topics trigger you while reading, please do not read this novel.
Moving along, I loved reading the author’s note on how he came to write “The Omen” as it was a nice way to start things off. As I started this novel, I loved all the creepy and intense moments that hits you right from the start. Needless to say, this is all about Damien, and every single scene he’s in was pretty damn scary.
Seltzer’s writing is fantastic and all the religious references were very well written. As I kept reading, there was a ton of suspense and tension which made this a genuine page-turner. The sheer demonic horror was great and the atmosphere was incredible as it’s really easy to get spooked out while reading this due to how brilliantly it was written. You can literally feel the evil get progressively deeper with each page turned.
Once I got to the 80% mark, it was such a fun and chaotic rush to the end that I could not put “The Omen” down. I had no idea what would ultimately transpire and the ending completely blew me away. It was pure madness and such a wild ending that I was utterly left in a state of shock. You know a novel is great when you’re left with your jaw on the floor because the ending was that incredible and leaves you horrified.
I give “The Omen” by David Seltzer a perfect 5/5 as this is a horror masterpiece and a must-read for every fan of the genre. It’s a great story filled with several disturbing horror moments and is truly an iconic novel that simply checks all the boxes of everything you want and then some. It’s one of those situations that if you love horror, this is something you need to experience at least once in your life. That ending is something that will stick with me for many years to come. Damien is now living rent-free in my head and will for a while, I can guarantee that. 666.
April 8, 2018
”...And then shall arise a contemptible one whom royal majesty has not been given. He shall come by counterfeit means and obtain the Kingdom of flatteries. Armies shall be swept away before him and broken...and he shall act deceitfully and he shall become strong with a small people. Without warning he shall come into the richest parts; and he shall do what neither his fathers nor his fathers’ fathers have done, scattering among the people plunder, spoils, and goods. He shall devise plans against strongholds, he shall exalt himself and magnify himself above every God, and shall speak astonishing things against the God of Gods. He shall prosper until the indignation is accomplished, for what is determined shall be done.”
The movie poster for the 1976 version starring Gregory Peck and Lee Remick.
Jeremy Thorn and his wife Katherine have been struggling to conceive. Katherine teeters on the edge of the precipice of insanity. They believe that if only they could have a child it would give Katherine something more to focus on than her own unhappiness. They have miscarried a couple of times and now finally a pregnancy is coming to term. Katherine is hospitalized in the 8th month and the fears of losing yet another child are gnawing at their already shattered nerves.
She loses the child…but wait.
Father Spilletto pulls Jeremy Thorn aside and said “do I have a deal for you” (and the devil deals the cards). A child is presented to Thorn. A cherub, healthy, and the wife doesn’t ever have to know. Thorn overwhelmed with emotions and realizing what losing another child will do to his wife...accepts. I could almost hear the whisk whisk of the priest rubbing his hands together with satisfaction over another bargain made.
The child is in place. His name is Damien.
Haven’t we all at times wondering if our child was the spawn of satan? Those moments when their head starts spinning around on their shoulders and for a moment I am amused and even enthralled... well until the fish start falling from the sky and a cloud of locust descends. Grilled grasshopper as a side dish to fried fish is fine for a while, and better yet if the damn wine hasn’t been turned into blood, but it doesn’t take long for me to want them to officially declare themselves Demon or just an annoying little twerp. If they are a DEMON I can turn them over to a priest or make a call to Sam and Dean Winchester, but if they are just an annoying little twerp?
*Sigh*...then I have to keep trying to find ways to communicate and coexist with this entity.
Sam and Dean are on my speed dial.
Damien is an odd little fellow.
”He’s like a little man from Mars,” Horton once remarked to his wife. “Like he was sent here to study the human race.”
His first nanny hangs herself as an act of devotion to Damien. A Mrs. Blaylock appears and declares herself the new nanny. Jeremy and Katherine are suspicious, but not suspicious enough. Damien seems to like her and her devotion to his welfare is without question, but when she starts to push Katherine aside the Thorns find themselves locked in a battle with the “hired help” for time with their son.
A priest named Tassone arrives at Thorn’s office spouting gibberish and really he is too desperate for the salvation of his own soul to appear as anything other than a lunatic. He was for lack of a better term “the cleaner” for Spilletto. He has much to atone for. He has very little time to convince Thorn that his son is not what he seems or actually that he is exactly what he seems. The forces around Damien are starting to circle Tassone.
Jeremy soon finds himself on his way to Rome hoping for answers to explain what and who Damien is. What bargain did he really make with Father Spilletto? Who are those people in the grave North of Rome protected by dogs that could have stepped out of the script of a Resident Evil movie?
”The bushes began to rustle and another dog’s head appeared; this one gray, its muzzle disfigured and dripping. Then another appeared, and another, the cemetery coming alive with motion as the darkened figures emerged from everywhere, a pack of at least ten, insane and ravenous, their mouths dripping in a continual drool.”
A Devil Child’s best friends.
The dying words of a priest send Thorn to Jerusalem to track down a man named Bugenhagen, the last of a long line of exorcists. He is living underground at the heart of the beginning of Christianity in the City of Jezreel, town of Meggido. It is the only place where he is safe. He explains to Thorn what he must do.
The 2006 remake of The Omen stars the lovely Julia Stiles, Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick and Liev Schrieber
This book launched a franchise of books and movies. Even though I had a good idea of the plot it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book. I will certainly be on the look out for signs of the Diabolical Trinity. ”The Devil, The Anti-Christ, and The False Prophet. If your children or your grandchildren are born with a full head of hair find a reason to shave their head and look for a trinity of numbers that will send a shiver down to your toes...666. I hope you don’t find them. This is another entry in my 1970s nostalgic horror tour.
If you wish to see more of my most recent book and movie reviews, visit http://www.jeffreykeeten.com
I also have a Facebook blogger page at: https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyKeeten
The movie poster for the 1976 version starring Gregory Peck and Lee Remick.
Jeremy Thorn and his wife Katherine have been struggling to conceive. Katherine teeters on the edge of the precipice of insanity. They believe that if only they could have a child it would give Katherine something more to focus on than her own unhappiness. They have miscarried a couple of times and now finally a pregnancy is coming to term. Katherine is hospitalized in the 8th month and the fears of losing yet another child are gnawing at their already shattered nerves.
She loses the child…but wait.
Father Spilletto pulls Jeremy Thorn aside and said “do I have a deal for you” (and the devil deals the cards). A child is presented to Thorn. A cherub, healthy, and the wife doesn’t ever have to know. Thorn overwhelmed with emotions and realizing what losing another child will do to his wife...accepts. I could almost hear the whisk whisk of the priest rubbing his hands together with satisfaction over another bargain made.
The child is in place. His name is Damien.
Haven’t we all at times wondering if our child was the spawn of satan? Those moments when their head starts spinning around on their shoulders and for a moment I am amused and even enthralled... well until the fish start falling from the sky and a cloud of locust descends. Grilled grasshopper as a side dish to fried fish is fine for a while, and better yet if the damn wine hasn’t been turned into blood, but it doesn’t take long for me to want them to officially declare themselves Demon or just an annoying little twerp. If they are a DEMON I can turn them over to a priest or make a call to Sam and Dean Winchester, but if they are just an annoying little twerp?
*Sigh*...then I have to keep trying to find ways to communicate and coexist with this entity.
Sam and Dean are on my speed dial.
Damien is an odd little fellow.
”He’s like a little man from Mars,” Horton once remarked to his wife. “Like he was sent here to study the human race.”
His first nanny hangs herself as an act of devotion to Damien. A Mrs. Blaylock appears and declares herself the new nanny. Jeremy and Katherine are suspicious, but not suspicious enough. Damien seems to like her and her devotion to his welfare is without question, but when she starts to push Katherine aside the Thorns find themselves locked in a battle with the “hired help” for time with their son.
A priest named Tassone arrives at Thorn’s office spouting gibberish and really he is too desperate for the salvation of his own soul to appear as anything other than a lunatic. He was for lack of a better term “the cleaner” for Spilletto. He has much to atone for. He has very little time to convince Thorn that his son is not what he seems or actually that he is exactly what he seems. The forces around Damien are starting to circle Tassone.
Jeremy soon finds himself on his way to Rome hoping for answers to explain what and who Damien is. What bargain did he really make with Father Spilletto? Who are those people in the grave North of Rome protected by dogs that could have stepped out of the script of a Resident Evil movie?
”The bushes began to rustle and another dog’s head appeared; this one gray, its muzzle disfigured and dripping. Then another appeared, and another, the cemetery coming alive with motion as the darkened figures emerged from everywhere, a pack of at least ten, insane and ravenous, their mouths dripping in a continual drool.”
A Devil Child’s best friends.
The dying words of a priest send Thorn to Jerusalem to track down a man named Bugenhagen, the last of a long line of exorcists. He is living underground at the heart of the beginning of Christianity in the City of Jezreel, town of Meggido. It is the only place where he is safe. He explains to Thorn what he must do.
The 2006 remake of The Omen stars the lovely Julia Stiles, Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick and Liev Schrieber
This book launched a franchise of books and movies. Even though I had a good idea of the plot it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book. I will certainly be on the look out for signs of the Diabolical Trinity. ”The Devil, The Anti-Christ, and The False Prophet. If your children or your grandchildren are born with a full head of hair find a reason to shave their head and look for a trinity of numbers that will send a shiver down to your toes...666. I hope you don’t find them. This is another entry in my 1970s nostalgic horror tour.
If you wish to see more of my most recent book and movie reviews, visit http://www.jeffreykeeten.com
I also have a Facebook blogger page at: https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyKeeten
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2019
3.5 - 4.0
"Let He who hath understanding
Reckon the number of the Beast;
For it is a human number,
It's number is Six Hundred and Sixty Six."
Revelations
This is another case, where I've seen the movie (1976) before reading the book. I loved the movie (not the 2006 remake); and enjoyed the novel - just as much, mostly - though I think the movie was, slightly, better. Some of the death-scenes played-out differently, and Thorn's visit to Meggido, where Yigael's Wall is situated in the Old City of Jezreel - and has the image of the Anti-Christ (Damien) wasn't in the book (or is it in Damien: Omen 2? I can't remember now. Haven't seen the movies, for eons). He went to Israel with Jennings to find Bugenhagen - but didn't see the Wall. Why? It wasn't even mentioned. Why? As a marketing stratagem, the book preceded the movie by two-weeks.
I loved the soundtrack, as well, which was used to great dramatic-effect; especially when something bad was about to happen. Jerry Goldsmith won an Oscar for Best Original Score. I think the graveyard scene creeped-me-out the most, when Thorne opens the graves and sees what lies within. It's like revelations. After the movie was shown: there was an influx of people wanting to own Rottweilers, for some reason. The scene in the elevator (Omen 2), ensured I took the stairs, regardless how many flights I had to ascend.
The 1976 film, had a budget of $2.8 million and took $60.9 million at the Box office, compared to the 2006 (pointless) remake, which took $119.5 million at the Box office.
1976 cast:
Gregory Peck (Robert Thorn)
Harvey Spencer Stephens (Damien Thorn)
Lee Remick (Katherine Thorn)
David Warner (Keith Jennings)
Billie Whitelaw (Mrs. Baylock)
Patrick Troughton (Father Brennan)
Holly Palance (Nanny) - didn't know Jack Palance's daughter was in the film.
Martin Benson (Father Spilletto)
"It happened in a millisecond. A movement in the galaxies that should have taken eons, occurred in the blinking of an eye."
And so it begins...
American Diplomat, Robert Thorn, is visiting a hospital in Rome, where his wife, Kathy, is about to give birth. When he reaches the hospital, he's told, his child is dead, 'It breathed for a moment,' whispered the priest, 'then breathed no more.' He's advised that his wife is safe, but will be unable to bear another child. She's been pregnant twice-before which were still-born, this one went to full-term and died - unbeknownst to Thorn - with a little intervention.
In another part of the hospital, a mother has given birth: where the child survived and the mother died. The priest tells him, he could adopt. 'It's a foundling,' said the priest. ' It's mother died as your own child...in the same hour.' And so begins Thorn's deception. He can't - won't - tell his wife, she's lost another child. It'd destroy her.
Only three people are privy to the child's true nature: Father Spilletto, Sister Teresa and Father Tasscone. And only one of those, eventually, has a conscience. I liked the background-history on Tasscone; and how he became part of the covenant in Rome - that was quite amusing. He wants absolution for his transgressions. Er.. redemption denied.
Playlist:
● "The Number Of The Beast," Iron Maiden.
● "O Fortuna," Carl Orff/Wagner.
● "Shout At The Devil," Motley Crue.
"Let He who hath understanding
Reckon the number of the Beast;
For it is a human number,
It's number is Six Hundred and Sixty Six."
Revelations
This is another case, where I've seen the movie (1976) before reading the book. I loved the movie (not the 2006 remake); and enjoyed the novel - just as much, mostly - though I think the movie was, slightly, better. Some of the death-scenes played-out differently, and Thorn's visit to Meggido, where Yigael's Wall is situated in the Old City of Jezreel - and has the image of the Anti-Christ (Damien) wasn't in the book (or is it in Damien: Omen 2? I can't remember now. Haven't seen the movies, for eons). He went to Israel with Jennings to find Bugenhagen - but didn't see the Wall. Why? It wasn't even mentioned. Why? As a marketing stratagem, the book preceded the movie by two-weeks.
I loved the soundtrack, as well, which was used to great dramatic-effect; especially when something bad was about to happen. Jerry Goldsmith won an Oscar for Best Original Score. I think the graveyard scene creeped-me-out the most, when Thorne opens the graves and sees what lies within. It's like revelations. After the movie was shown: there was an influx of people wanting to own Rottweilers, for some reason. The scene in the elevator (Omen 2), ensured I took the stairs, regardless how many flights I had to ascend.
The 1976 film, had a budget of $2.8 million and took $60.9 million at the Box office, compared to the 2006 (pointless) remake, which took $119.5 million at the Box office.
1976 cast:
Gregory Peck (Robert Thorn)
Harvey Spencer Stephens (Damien Thorn)
Lee Remick (Katherine Thorn)
David Warner (Keith Jennings)
Billie Whitelaw (Mrs. Baylock)
Patrick Troughton (Father Brennan)
Holly Palance (Nanny) - didn't know Jack Palance's daughter was in the film.
Martin Benson (Father Spilletto)
"It happened in a millisecond. A movement in the galaxies that should have taken eons, occurred in the blinking of an eye."
And so it begins...
American Diplomat, Robert Thorn, is visiting a hospital in Rome, where his wife, Kathy, is about to give birth. When he reaches the hospital, he's told, his child is dead, 'It breathed for a moment,' whispered the priest, 'then breathed no more.' He's advised that his wife is safe, but will be unable to bear another child. She's been pregnant twice-before which were still-born, this one went to full-term and died - unbeknownst to Thorn - with a little intervention.
In another part of the hospital, a mother has given birth: where the child survived and the mother died. The priest tells him, he could adopt. 'It's a foundling,' said the priest. ' It's mother died as your own child...in the same hour.' And so begins Thorn's deception. He can't - won't - tell his wife, she's lost another child. It'd destroy her.
Only three people are privy to the child's true nature: Father Spilletto, Sister Teresa and Father Tasscone. And only one of those, eventually, has a conscience. I liked the background-history on Tasscone; and how he became part of the covenant in Rome - that was quite amusing. He wants absolution for his transgressions. Er.. redemption denied.
Playlist:
● "The Number Of The Beast," Iron Maiden.
● "O Fortuna," Carl Orff/Wagner.
● "Shout At The Devil," Motley Crue.
December 11, 2017
Absolute classic! It add some details to the fantastic movie and is a pageturning read. Gosh, what a story. A must read for every fan of horror literature. One of the most gripping tales ever and extremely eerie. This is one of the books you'll never forget!
October 20, 2022
My understanding is that this is a novelization of the 1976 film. Being that the case, I believe every detail was faithfully captured here with some additional details on the background of the Thorns, father Tassone, father Spiletto, Haber Jennings, and Mrs. Baylock, who in my opinion is way scarier in the film.
I couldn't help but notice that there were several print errors in the book, but other than that I feel it gave me what I expected from it.
For those who haven't read the book or seen the film and that are into horror stories, this is a classic you shouldn't miss.
I couldn't help but notice that there were several print errors in the book, but other than that I feel it gave me what I expected from it.
For those who haven't read the book or seen the film and that are into horror stories, this is a classic you shouldn't miss.
October 11, 2021
"Eran el sexto mes, el sexto día, la hora sexta. El preciso momento predicho por el Antiguo Testamento, cuando la Historia de la Tierra cambiaría. Las guerras, los disturbios de siglos recientes no habían sido más que ensayos, como una probatura del clima para determinar cuándo la Humanidad estaría en condiciones de ser conducida"
—Temo lo bueno porque un día desaparecerá... Temo al mal porque soy demasiado débil para soportarlo.
—¿Miraste alguna vez sus ojos? —preguntó Horton—. Es como mirar los ojos de un animal. Sólo observan. Esperan. Saben algo que uno no sabe. Han estado en algún lugar que uno no conoce.
—Frente a todo lo santo hay algo profano. Es la esencia de la tentación.
Relectura de este libro después de muchos años y mi apreciación no cambio demasiado.
Es una novelizan del guion original de la película e 1976. Salieron prácticamente a la par y si bien las diferencias son ínfimas, creo que se nota que esta concebida para ser una obra visual, porque por momentos pierde fuerza en relación a la película. El personaje de Thorn parece tener menos personalidad y presencia, en parte por la brillante actuación de Gregory Peck y aun mas se nota con el personaje de Damian; que sus apariciones en la película son sumamente intensas, maravillosamente actuadas por el pequeño actor que las interpreta.
También Hay pequeños cambios que se hicieron en el libro ... EJ: la raza de los perros, algunas que situaciones que no aportan nada, resultan inverosímiles y te sacan un poco... seguramente estaban en el guion original, pero para la película las quitaron y acá las dejaron( por ejemplo algunas relacionadas con el personaje del fotógrafo), todos detalles que conspiran levemente para que pierda vigor.
Algunos de los puntos mas fuertes tanto para la película como para el libro son: Presentar al anticristo,al mal, como alguien de carne y hueso (al menos en cuanto a su exterior/envase/superficie) mas aun siendo un niño,este enfoque en cierta forma le da mas fuerza. Ademas de toda la parte conspirativa, que ha sido una grande inspiración para tratar otros argumentos similares.
Otro de los puntos fuertes son los tremendos dilemas que plantea. y la alienación que va sufriendo cada uno de los padres por diferentes motivos, uno por saber demasiado y otro por desconocimiento.
En definitiva es un muy buen libro, una gran historia. Pero sigo teniendo mas afinidad con la película, la cual me parece un pilar absoluto del terror y que trasciende al genero. Ademas personalmente es una de las cuales me sirvió de introducción y me hizo amar dicho género.
—Temo lo bueno porque un día desaparecerá... Temo al mal porque soy demasiado débil para soportarlo.
—¿Miraste alguna vez sus ojos? —preguntó Horton—. Es como mirar los ojos de un animal. Sólo observan. Esperan. Saben algo que uno no sabe. Han estado en algún lugar que uno no conoce.
—Frente a todo lo santo hay algo profano. Es la esencia de la tentación.
Relectura de este libro después de muchos años y mi apreciación no cambio demasiado.
Es una novelizan del guion original de la película e 1976. Salieron prácticamente a la par y si bien las diferencias son ínfimas, creo que se nota que esta concebida para ser una obra visual, porque por momentos pierde fuerza en relación a la película. El personaje de Thorn parece tener menos personalidad y presencia, en parte por la brillante actuación de Gregory Peck y aun mas se nota con el personaje de Damian; que sus apariciones en la película son sumamente intensas, maravillosamente actuadas por el pequeño actor que las interpreta.
También Hay pequeños cambios que se hicieron en el libro ... EJ: la raza de los perros, algunas que situaciones que no aportan nada, resultan inverosímiles y te sacan un poco... seguramente estaban en el guion original, pero para la película las quitaron y acá las dejaron( por ejemplo algunas relacionadas con el personaje del fotógrafo), todos detalles que conspiran levemente para que pierda vigor.
Algunos de los puntos mas fuertes tanto para la película como para el libro son: Presentar al anticristo,al mal, como alguien de carne y hueso (al menos en cuanto a su exterior/envase/superficie) mas aun siendo un niño,este enfoque en cierta forma le da mas fuerza. Ademas de toda la parte conspirativa, que ha sido una grande inspiración para tratar otros argumentos similares.
Otro de los puntos fuertes son los tremendos dilemas que plantea. y la alienación que va sufriendo cada uno de los padres por diferentes motivos, uno por saber demasiado y otro por desconocimiento.
En definitiva es un muy buen libro, una gran historia. Pero sigo teniendo mas afinidad con la película, la cual me parece un pilar absoluto del terror y que trasciende al genero. Ademas personalmente es una de las cuales me sirvió de introducción y me hizo amar dicho género.
October 22, 2019
The Omen - ruining it for guys named Damien since 1976.
March 27, 2022
Woe to you, Oh Earth and Sea, for the Devil sends the beast with wrath, because he knows the time is short ... Let him who hath understanding reckon the number of the beast, for it is a human number, its number is six hundred and sixty-six.
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/4
Initial Thoughts
I'm a huge horror fan. Ever since I was a kid I've had a fascination with scary moves and have a lot of nostalgia for the old ones. So of course I'd seen the 70's horror classic "The Omen." I have fond memories from my childhood of that awfully creepy kid causing death and mayhem, so was really looking forward to getting stuck into this one.
So I had a very good idea of what to expect going in with The Omen being one of those great 70's horrors (Exorcist, Rosemary's Baby, etc) that featured an evil child. Sometimes that's a hindrance as it ruins the element of surprise. But with this being such a classic I was excited to see how this dreadful tale would present itself on the written page. Over to you David Seltzer...who just happened to be the guy who wrote the original screenplay for the movie.
The Story
In the Omen Seltzer brilliantly weaves a tale based around biblical prophesies about the coming and birth of the Anti-Christ and the oncoming apocalypse. The story itself follows the upper class lives of the Thorn family. A grief filled opening for the pair sparks a downward spiral of tragedy when the pair adopt an orphaned baby after the death of their own child.
"Ever looked into them eyes?" asked Horton. "It's the same as lookin' into an animal's. They just watch. They wait. They know somethin' you don't know. They been someplace you never been."
A series of strange deaths begin to surround the adopted child, named Damien, as it grows up. Is it purely coincidence or is something sinister lurking behind the gaze of childlike innocence? I think you know the answer.
The Writing
As someone who is used to the quality of Stephen King, Robert McCammon and Peter Straub, the writing is not on that level. The Omen is however well written, being full of suspense and darkness. Seltzer employs a horrifying foundation of mounting tension, which escalates with each new reveal about Damien’s true identity and the nature of those sinister incidents that surround him.
What is impressive is the level of tension that absolutely consumed me. Theres a bleak and foreboding atmosphere that sets the tone for the story brilliantly. Its thick and sinister, that really put me on edge and got my full attention.
"He was helpless. They were all helpless. They didn't ask to be born and they didn't ask to die. They were made to. But why, in between, did there have to be such pain? Perhaps humankind was more amusing that way. Perhaps they provided entertainment."
Some of the events are horrifying with the narrative becoming fast paced and brutal as we race toward the finish. My only real criticism is that Seltzer really missed the opportunity to explore potential new avenues outside of what transpires in the movie.
The Characters
The book definitely explores the characters to a deeper level than the movie, as Seltzer fleshes them out with extra detail and background.
Although being nowhere near the level of Stephen King character development they are realistic and distinct. What Seltzer does very well is demonstrating the flaws and moral confliction that exists within his characters which adds to the level of drama.
Then there's the supporting characters of Jennings and the nanny Mrs Blaylock who are fantastic supporting characters. Both bring a high level of entertainment to the proceedings. On reflection, it really is a good show.
Final Thoughts
Overall I had a blast with this book. It's been many years since I watch the movie but I did notice quite a few extra details that definitely weren't in the film.
"From the Eternal Sea he rises. Creating armies on either shore. Turning man against his brother. Till man exists no more!"
Any fan of horror is going to appreciate the masterfully formed atmosphere and a dark and dastardly vibe that makes The Omen almost impossible to put down.
It strength is without doubt it's brilliantly compelling plot and you will find yourself engrossed in the shockingly dark narrative as it unfolds. Let's be real. This is the story that started giving parents second thoughts about the angry looks they got from their children. If it's been a while since you've seen the movie or amazingly haven't seen it then I thoroughly recommend this one. Cheers!
May 30, 2022
Fantastic! Old school horror at its finest!
I’m super glad to finally get to The Omen. It’s been years since I’ve seen the movie so the book felt new to me while reading this.
Of course, I already knew the shocking moments from the movie would be the same in the book, but it’s still great to revisit this horror classic.
The Omen has lots of tension, a great creep factor, and plenty of gory deaths.
It’s exactly what you would want with a book about the Antichrist.
The characters, the pacing and the ending are all well done.
Even if you’ve seen the movie, check out the book.
And if you haven’t seen the movie, read this first!
I’m super glad to finally get to The Omen. It’s been years since I’ve seen the movie so the book felt new to me while reading this.
Of course, I already knew the shocking moments from the movie would be the same in the book, but it’s still great to revisit this horror classic.
The Omen has lots of tension, a great creep factor, and plenty of gory deaths.
It’s exactly what you would want with a book about the Antichrist.
The characters, the pacing and the ending are all well done.
Even if you’ve seen the movie, check out the book.
And if you haven’t seen the movie, read this first!
March 23, 2022
Creepy - loved it!
May 15, 2018
“Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast; for it is the number of a man; and his number is 666”
Cue that ominous Gregorian choir music from the original 1976 film. That was one of my all-time favorite movies, and I’ve seen it so many times, I was actually anticipating the dialogue as I read the novel. But that didn’t diminish the read one bit. For those who don’t know the story (spoilers) … it’s about the birth of the devil’s child, and the ruin of the family who inadvertently raises him. It’s not so much scary, as it is dark, brooding, and chilling. The novel was written by the screenwriter of the film, and it was fascinating to see how he explored the sinister backgrounds behind some of the story’s more shadowy characters. It’s not at the level of “The Exorcist,” which for me is the pinnacle in this genre, but it’s still a gripping read. 4.5 stars.
Cue that ominous Gregorian choir music from the original 1976 film. That was one of my all-time favorite movies, and I’ve seen it so many times, I was actually anticipating the dialogue as I read the novel. But that didn’t diminish the read one bit. For those who don’t know the story (spoilers) … it’s about the birth of the devil’s child, and the ruin of the family who inadvertently raises him. It’s not so much scary, as it is dark, brooding, and chilling. The novel was written by the screenwriter of the film, and it was fascinating to see how he explored the sinister backgrounds behind some of the story’s more shadowy characters. It’s not at the level of “The Exorcist,” which for me is the pinnacle in this genre, but it’s still a gripping read. 4.5 stars.
October 29, 2019
The Omen was a fairly popular movie. Released in 1976 it grossed over $60 million dollars and was one of the highest-grossing films of 1976. It even was nominated for two Oscars.
It is the archetype for many Anti-Christ stories later on. It is really a three star story, but one that gets an extra star due to its sheer impact on pop-culture.
The fairly unlikable Thorns are struggling to have a baby. The political climber Mr. Thorn is the US Ambassador to the UK and his manic wife, after two miscarriages have a baby. But Satan has other plans. Thorn is told his child is dead and offered a beautiful replacement, not wishing to traumatize his already manic wife, which he accepts.
This is Damien. It has forever tainted the name "Damien" and associated it with Satan. That's not accurate since the name originates from Damianos, which is itself derived from the 4th Century Greek word damazo which meant "to tame". During this 4th century there was a St. Damien and his brother Cosmo who were martyred in Syria. He is the patron Saint of Physicians. So now you know and can name your child Damien.
The rest of the story is a horror tory that relies more on a build-up of suspense and is more of a occult detective story. Damien is a cool kid, but doesn't say much. But, I like him due to his father and the fact he has a black German Shepherd. Very cool.
So if you'd like to read the book about the Anti-Christ go for it. I gave it 4 stars due to cultural impact, but it truly is likely a 3 star story at best. Still, can't go wrong with a horror "classic" like this one.
It is the archetype for many Anti-Christ stories later on. It is really a three star story, but one that gets an extra star due to its sheer impact on pop-culture.
The fairly unlikable Thorns are struggling to have a baby. The political climber Mr. Thorn is the US Ambassador to the UK and his manic wife, after two miscarriages have a baby. But Satan has other plans. Thorn is told his child is dead and offered a beautiful replacement, not wishing to traumatize his already manic wife, which he accepts.
This is Damien. It has forever tainted the name "Damien" and associated it with Satan. That's not accurate since the name originates from Damianos, which is itself derived from the 4th Century Greek word damazo which meant "to tame". During this 4th century there was a St. Damien and his brother Cosmo who were martyred in Syria. He is the patron Saint of Physicians. So now you know and can name your child Damien.
The rest of the story is a horror tory that relies more on a build-up of suspense and is more of a occult detective story. Damien is a cool kid, but doesn't say much. But, I like him due to his father and the fact he has a black German Shepherd. Very cool.
So if you'd like to read the book about the Anti-Christ go for it. I gave it 4 stars due to cultural impact, but it truly is likely a 3 star story at best. Still, can't go wrong with a horror "classic" like this one.
June 15, 2019
SPOILER HERE!
Satan has won the battle here, no happy ending....
i really enjoyed the book, it was not creepy as i supposed at first and yes, it was really NOMEN OMEN but Christians have a certainty that has been revealed to them
"Tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam" [Mt 16:18-19]
(You are Peter, And upon this Rock I will build My Church:
and the gates of hell shall not overcome it.)
and this is all my friends.....
Satan has won the battle here, no happy ending....
i really enjoyed the book, it was not creepy as i supposed at first and yes, it was really NOMEN OMEN but Christians have a certainty that has been revealed to them
"Tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam" [Mt 16:18-19]
(You are Peter, And upon this Rock I will build My Church:
and the gates of hell shall not overcome it.)
and this is all my friends.....
May 31, 2022
I loved reading this classic horror story! The ominous storyline in this is so believable, it scares me each time I watch (and now read) it. I’d hoped for a little more depth to the book, and was a little disappointed that there wasn’t much that we didn’t get from the movie, but overall, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment. I look forward to reading the next. 5/5 stars.
October 2, 2023
Es el guion de la película. Me ha gustado y he ido recordándola a medida que lo leía. 8/10
July 10, 2023
Robert Thorn recibe la noticia de que su primer hijo ha nacido muerto. Para evitar el dolor de su mujer, Katherine, acepta adoptar a otro niño nacido en la misma clínica, cuya madre ha fallecido durante el parto. Katherine, ignorante de la suplantación, se entrega con ternura al cuidado de su supuesto hijo Damien.
Pero mientras el niño crece, también lo hace el terror que lo rodea.
Accidentes fatales, suicidios y una violencia inexplicable parecen seguir a los Thorn adonde quiera que vayan, pero ¿por qué razón? ¿Y cómo es posible que el pequeño Damien tenga algo que ver con tan terribles sucesos? Es sólo un niño...👼
Puntuación: 6️⃣6️⃣6️⃣, 5.
“La Profecía” de David Seltzer es una de esas novelas de las que he oído hablar mucho, uno de los pocos clásicos que me faltan por leer.
He visto fragmentos de la película a lo largo de los años, pero siempre he querido leer la novela solo para obtener la verdadera experiencia.
Personajes interesantes como Jeremy Thorn, el fríamente ambicioso embajador de los Estados Unidos en Inglaterra y padre adoptivo del anticristo de cara dulce y mejillas rojizas. Katherine Thorn, la madre ceñuda un minuto y maníaca al siguiente de dicho anticristo.
Damien Thorn, el mismísimo anticristo de rostro dulce quepoco que poco va cambiando. Y el padre Tassone, un sacerdote que intenta frenar el plan maestro de Damián.
Novela escrita por el guionista de la película. El resultado es un texto que se hace seco, es rápido y tiene mucho diálogo. Y que por ello no me ha soprendido ya que recuerdo todo de la película. Carente de sorpresa eso afecta.
Seltzer trabaja con diálogos y cambios de escena, algunos de ellos muy fuertes.
La escritura de Seltzer a su vez es muy buena, siendo ágil y detallada en todas las referencias religiosas. Con cierto suspense y tensión. Además de su documentación. Esos aspectos fueron lo que me más gustó.
Horror demoníaco bueno con una atmósfera adecuada. Un clásico que engancha con una historia y trasfondo religioso interesante aunque no deja de ser el guión de la película. Con sus pros y contras que han afectado a mi lectura de este recomendable clásico.✍️
Pero mientras el niño crece, también lo hace el terror que lo rodea.
Accidentes fatales, suicidios y una violencia inexplicable parecen seguir a los Thorn adonde quiera que vayan, pero ¿por qué razón? ¿Y cómo es posible que el pequeño Damien tenga algo que ver con tan terribles sucesos? Es sólo un niño...👼
Puntuación: 6️⃣6️⃣6️⃣, 5.
“La Profecía” de David Seltzer es una de esas novelas de las que he oído hablar mucho, uno de los pocos clásicos que me faltan por leer.
He visto fragmentos de la película a lo largo de los años, pero siempre he querido leer la novela solo para obtener la verdadera experiencia.
Personajes interesantes como Jeremy Thorn, el fríamente ambicioso embajador de los Estados Unidos en Inglaterra y padre adoptivo del anticristo de cara dulce y mejillas rojizas. Katherine Thorn, la madre ceñuda un minuto y maníaca al siguiente de dicho anticristo.
Damien Thorn, el mismísimo anticristo de rostro dulce quepoco que poco va cambiando. Y el padre Tassone, un sacerdote que intenta frenar el plan maestro de Damián.
Novela escrita por el guionista de la película. El resultado es un texto que se hace seco, es rápido y tiene mucho diálogo. Y que por ello no me ha soprendido ya que recuerdo todo de la película. Carente de sorpresa eso afecta.
Seltzer trabaja con diálogos y cambios de escena, algunos de ellos muy fuertes.
La escritura de Seltzer a su vez es muy buena, siendo ágil y detallada en todas las referencias religiosas. Con cierto suspense y tensión. Además de su documentación. Esos aspectos fueron lo que me más gustó.
Horror demoníaco bueno con una atmósfera adecuada. Un clásico que engancha con una historia y trasfondo religioso interesante aunque no deja de ser el guión de la película. Con sus pros y contras que han afectado a mi lectura de este recomendable clásico.✍️
April 15, 2021
When a horror awaits every twenty pages or so, then you have a winner! The Omen is no exception. The film is a masterpiece--the novel is testament that stuff can go really wrong, really fast... in a super fun, creepy way. Sure, it could be hokey. But NO. This is Antichrist stuff. Heaven and hell intermingling and fighting--the battle is within. And it is not above dramatic orchestrations! (Speaking of, the Ave Satani may be the only reason the book is pretty much forgotten, the movie lauded.)
There are fun differences between film and novel. Locations of a Europe seeped in evil is magnificent--ghosts of wars and killers abound. The appearance of Mrs. Baylock is not skeletal or brooding--she's a linebacker of rage! Jenning's the photographer is more developed. A cameo by ...Christ himself! And the satanic threesome's (Satan's Task Force's) participation in the baby switch at the beginning--that is described in the book too. Other than that (nanny #1--hanging by a rope wearing ... a clown's costume!)... they are parallel. Though in book form, it is just as thrilling.
There are fun differences between film and novel. Locations of a Europe seeped in evil is magnificent--ghosts of wars and killers abound. The appearance of Mrs. Baylock is not skeletal or brooding--she's a linebacker of rage! Jenning's the photographer is more developed. A cameo by ...Christ himself! And the satanic threesome's (Satan's Task Force's) participation in the baby switch at the beginning--that is described in the book too. Other than that (nanny #1--hanging by a rope wearing ... a clown's costume!)... they are parallel. Though in book form, it is just as thrilling.
July 9, 2022
Loved the writing and the story. Also the audio book for this one was great.
October 23, 2022
I first read this probably not much after it was first released, so in the late 70s when I was young and I remember it freaking me out. (I think I was on a bit of a horror binge, Stephen King, Amityville horror etc.) I’m pleased to say that I really enjoyed reading it again now. It still gave me chills, it’s fast paced and Damien is really frightening even though he’s just a little kid. Its obvious the author is a screenwriter as it is very cinematic, the weather and locations are so wonderfully dramatic. Anyway a fun trip back to my early reading!
October 25, 2022
The movie frightened me for years as a child. The tv schedule forced me to stay up until late at night and see it in the dark, while my family was sleeping. And I remember that my friends did the same. This was a cultural phenomenon.
Reading the book as an adult, I can see why the movie had that effect on me and the world. The book is commercial but good. The atmosphere is everything one wants from horror. Of course, the supernatural doesn't scare me anymore ... I think. The only "adult" commentary that I can make about the book is that it does a good job of surprising the thirst for Apocalypse that every generation has. We all see the end of the world coming. 50 years later the new generation can see that it was all paranoia while ignoring its own.
Reading the book as an adult, I can see why the movie had that effect on me and the world. The book is commercial but good. The atmosphere is everything one wants from horror. Of course, the supernatural doesn't scare me anymore ... I think. The only "adult" commentary that I can make about the book is that it does a good job of surprising the thirst for Apocalypse that every generation has. We all see the end of the world coming. 50 years later the new generation can see that it was all paranoia while ignoring its own.
August 27, 2018
I read this book ages ago and at the time I found it quite scary. Not sure what I would make of it today. I also enjoyed the movie that was made and the characters where just as I imagined them to be.
March 22, 2023
This one was great! Really liked the relationship between the politician and paparazzi and their were some solid horror moments too. It was well paced and kept intrigue until the end. Will be getting myself the others in the series for sure
June 28, 2017
I have been meaning to read this book for years and never felt I had time to get round to it. Well this year being the year of finishing promises and completing challenges I thought it was about time. After all it repeatedly appears on lists of all time greatest horror books.
And so I started my reading of my 1981 edition (although it was first printed in the mid 70s) I started with a sense of deja-vu. Now I am sure I have never watched the film all the way through. First being too young (and yes scared) to watch it and then older and more skeptical of an ageing film.
And yet so many scenes are familiar to me - maybe I have seen the film, or maybe these scenes have been repeated and reused in homage and recognition of their ground breaking nature. As I have to say for its age it does strike a punch.
Now yes there are signs of its age - from smoking on aeroplanes to mention the use of film in cameras. However many of the more visual scenes are expertly written playing out literally like a film score. Playing on apprehension and atmosphere you can feel the tension rise - not bad for something like I say that is so famous many would feel it has no more surprises left to give.
Looking back I think a lot of the book plays on paranoia of the coming ages - the fear of what is around the corner with the millennium approaching, political and economical unrest (I was born in the 70s and remember some of those tensions) I think some of the power of this story has now been bleached away.
However there is still some underlying fear I think that will never go away and for this I can see why this book still sits on the best horror book lists. Just be ready for that feeling of deja-vu
And so I started my reading of my 1981 edition (although it was first printed in the mid 70s) I started with a sense of deja-vu. Now I am sure I have never watched the film all the way through. First being too young (and yes scared) to watch it and then older and more skeptical of an ageing film.
And yet so many scenes are familiar to me - maybe I have seen the film, or maybe these scenes have been repeated and reused in homage and recognition of their ground breaking nature. As I have to say for its age it does strike a punch.
Now yes there are signs of its age - from smoking on aeroplanes to mention the use of film in cameras. However many of the more visual scenes are expertly written playing out literally like a film score. Playing on apprehension and atmosphere you can feel the tension rise - not bad for something like I say that is so famous many would feel it has no more surprises left to give.
Looking back I think a lot of the book plays on paranoia of the coming ages - the fear of what is around the corner with the millennium approaching, political and economical unrest (I was born in the 70s and remember some of those tensions) I think some of the power of this story has now been bleached away.
However there is still some underlying fear I think that will never go away and for this I can see why this book still sits on the best horror book lists. Just be ready for that feeling of deja-vu
May 26, 2017
Todo lo que buscaba en un libro clásico de horror, que me perturbe y me entretenga, es un libro corto y sólido. Perfecto para cualquier lector que busca leer algo de miedo y un MUST para los amantes del género.
El final fue excelente y voy a estar viendo la película muy pronto para hacer una comparación.
El final fue excelente y voy a estar viendo la película muy pronto para hacer una comparación.
July 21, 2016
Increíble, uno de los libros más entretenidos que he leído durante este año. Deseaba muchísimo encontrarme con ESTE tipo de horror en la literatura. Uno que estuviera estrechamente relacionado con lo diabólico, lo satánico y oculto, y sin dudas lo obtuve. El libro se va tornando cada vez más enfermizo, y lo hace tan gradualmente que uno casi no puede percibirlo.
Fue una de las pocas veces en las que literalmente grité de impotencia por su final, cosa curiosa, ya que más allá de ocasionales lágrimas de conmoción ante alguna situación triste, no soy de demostrar aquello que estoy viviendo en la historia a través de expresiones de esa índole. La historia por lo general generó muchas emociones intensas que no había experimentado en mucho tiempo, y el final realmente hizo que me retorciera. Pronto la video reseña en mi canal con más detalles.
Fue una de las pocas veces en las que literalmente grité de impotencia por su final, cosa curiosa, ya que más allá de ocasionales lágrimas de conmoción ante alguna situación triste, no soy de demostrar aquello que estoy viviendo en la historia a través de expresiones de esa índole. La historia por lo general generó muchas emociones intensas que no había experimentado en mucho tiempo, y el final realmente hizo que me retorciera. Pronto la video reseña en mi canal con más detalles.
August 12, 2022
الرعب الاعتي على الإطلاق هو رعب الأطفال
"فانت أمام هؤلاء"الصغار الضعفاء
ميت ميت
خسران مقدماَ
مخطئ للابد
الأفضل لك ان ترفع الراية البيضاء مستسلما
حتي لو كان ابنك هو المسيخ الدجال شخصياَ
فانت اكيد
مجنون
كذاب
مفتري
لان دميان ينتصر دائما للاسف
حتي انه انتصر علي كاست الفيلم الاكثر نحساَ عبر التاريخ
ليسجل الحوادث الاكثر عددا في تاريخ افلام الرعب
و لكنه سيحتل بنسخته الاولي ١٩٧٦ مكانة ابدية بين اهم افلام الرعب للابد
"فانت أمام هؤلاء"الصغار الضعفاء
ميت ميت
خسران مقدماَ
مخطئ للابد
الأفضل لك ان ترفع الراية البيضاء مستسلما
حتي لو كان ابنك هو المسيخ الدجال شخصياَ
فانت اكيد
مجنون
كذاب
مفتري
لان دميان ينتصر دائما للاسف
حتي انه انتصر علي كاست الفيلم الاكثر نحساَ عبر التاريخ
ليسجل الحوادث الاكثر عددا في تاريخ افلام الرعب
و لكنه سيحتل بنسخته الاولي ١٩٧٦ مكانة ابدية بين اهم افلام الرعب للابد
January 5, 2019
Perhaps the best film tie in novel I've read. A perfect blend of subtle and overt horror tactics to scare the reader senseless. Author David Seltzer makes the son of Satan and the alignment of the end of days scarily plausible whilst somehow producing a character-centric read that's as enthralling as it is entertaining.
There's not much more I can say that hasn't already been said about this classic horror novel.
My rating: 5/5 stars. I've heard the sequels don't do the original justice but I'm still keen to read Omen II, as for The Omen, I highly recommend it for horror fans.
There's not much more I can say that hasn't already been said about this classic horror novel.
My rating: 5/5 stars. I've heard the sequels don't do the original justice but I'm still keen to read Omen II, as for The Omen, I highly recommend it for horror fans.
October 11, 2020
2.5 Stars
This is one of those times where a story works better on screen than on the page. For a book about a demon child, I expected the boy to be a lot creepier. Instead this book was all about misdirection, which was annoying since we as the readers clearly knew that he was the source of the evil. While I didn't love the book, I am actually very interested in watching the movies because I think a visual narrative would work so much better.
This is one of those times where a story works better on screen than on the page. For a book about a demon child, I expected the boy to be a lot creepier. Instead this book was all about misdirection, which was annoying since we as the readers clearly knew that he was the source of the evil. While I didn't love the book, I am actually very interested in watching the movies because I think a visual narrative would work so much better.
January 8, 2025
Let He who hath understanding Reckon the number of the Beast;
For it is a human number,
Its number is Six Hundred and Sixty-Six.
-BOOK OF REVELATIONS
The Omen (1976), directed by Richard Donner, has always been one of my favorite horror films and one of the most frightening I saw as a child. At the time, I had already seen aliens bursting out of chests, vampire children floating outside windows shrouded in mist, killer sharks, faceless murderers wielding knives in their black-gloved hands, dead painters preserved in formaldehyde by their mad sisters, and cannibalistic zombies hungry for human flesh. However, The Omen still holds a special place in my heart, along with almost all the other films directed by the American director.
In his first-class seat aboard the 747 bound from Washington to Rome, Jeremy Thorn felt it too and routinely fastened his seat belt, preoccupied with what awaited him below. Even if he had known the reason for the sudden turbulence, it would have been too late. For at that moment, in the basement of the Ospedale Generale in Rome, a stone crushed the head of the child that was meant to be his.
This novelization of the film, written by David Seltzer (who also wrote the film's screenplay), was released in American bookstores a couple of weeks before the film hit theaters. This led many to mistakenly believe that the film was an adaptation of the novel and not the other way around. The book is practically a perfect copy of the film, with some additional depth in the plot and character backgrounds, and some differences in details, such as some names: Father Brennan in the book has been Italianized to Father Tassone.
"Look here, Damien!" she shouted. "It's all for you!" And in a single movement she stepped off the roof, her body plummeting downward, snapped back up by the rope, then hanging limp. Silent. Dead. On the lawn they stood in stunned silence, the small body swinging gently to the accompaniment of a carousel waltz."
Even though I already knew the story and the ending, the book is a pleasure to read and keeps you glued to the last page, in a crescendo of tension, horror, and chilling scenes that get under your skin. The strong themes and images caused quite a stir at the time, and I prefer not to mention them to avoid spoiling anything for those who want to experience the film and the novel for the first time. Let's just say that the novelization of The Omen is not a book I would recommend to everyone, but for fans of cinematic and literary horror, it remains an essential classic.
Horton also noticed, on helping his wife sort through the laundry, that the boy's clothing had a great many dark hairs on them, as though he had been playing with an animal. But he failed to make any connection between the animal hairs and the trips into the Pereford forest, chalking it up to just another one of the disturbing aspects of Pereford House, of which there were coming to be many.
Five full stars for me, even though the massacre of my native language in some passages almost made me cry tears of blood...
There, in the photograph of Tassone's room, was a small mirror in a far corner, reflecting Jennings with the camera poised in front of his face. There was nothing unusual about a photographer catching his own reflection in a mirror, but in this case there was something missing. It was Jennings' neck, the head separated by a blemish of haze from his body.
And for those who haven't done so, watch the 1976 film, without which the number of the beast would probably never have entered popular culture, and the world of heavy metal music would never have been the same.
For it is a human number,
Its number is Six Hundred and Sixty-Six.
-BOOK OF REVELATIONS
The Omen (1976), directed by Richard Donner, has always been one of my favorite horror films and one of the most frightening I saw as a child. At the time, I had already seen aliens bursting out of chests, vampire children floating outside windows shrouded in mist, killer sharks, faceless murderers wielding knives in their black-gloved hands, dead painters preserved in formaldehyde by their mad sisters, and cannibalistic zombies hungry for human flesh. However, The Omen still holds a special place in my heart, along with almost all the other films directed by the American director.
In his first-class seat aboard the 747 bound from Washington to Rome, Jeremy Thorn felt it too and routinely fastened his seat belt, preoccupied with what awaited him below. Even if he had known the reason for the sudden turbulence, it would have been too late. For at that moment, in the basement of the Ospedale Generale in Rome, a stone crushed the head of the child that was meant to be his.
This novelization of the film, written by David Seltzer (who also wrote the film's screenplay), was released in American bookstores a couple of weeks before the film hit theaters. This led many to mistakenly believe that the film was an adaptation of the novel and not the other way around. The book is practically a perfect copy of the film, with some additional depth in the plot and character backgrounds, and some differences in details, such as some names: Father Brennan in the book has been Italianized to Father Tassone.
"Look here, Damien!" she shouted. "It's all for you!" And in a single movement she stepped off the roof, her body plummeting downward, snapped back up by the rope, then hanging limp. Silent. Dead. On the lawn they stood in stunned silence, the small body swinging gently to the accompaniment of a carousel waltz."
Even though I already knew the story and the ending, the book is a pleasure to read and keeps you glued to the last page, in a crescendo of tension, horror, and chilling scenes that get under your skin. The strong themes and images caused quite a stir at the time, and I prefer not to mention them to avoid spoiling anything for those who want to experience the film and the novel for the first time. Let's just say that the novelization of The Omen is not a book I would recommend to everyone, but for fans of cinematic and literary horror, it remains an essential classic.
Horton also noticed, on helping his wife sort through the laundry, that the boy's clothing had a great many dark hairs on them, as though he had been playing with an animal. But he failed to make any connection between the animal hairs and the trips into the Pereford forest, chalking it up to just another one of the disturbing aspects of Pereford House, of which there were coming to be many.
Five full stars for me, even though the massacre of my native language in some passages almost made me cry tears of blood...
There, in the photograph of Tassone's room, was a small mirror in a far corner, reflecting Jennings with the camera poised in front of his face. There was nothing unusual about a photographer catching his own reflection in a mirror, but in this case there was something missing. It was Jennings' neck, the head separated by a blemish of haze from his body.
And for those who haven't done so, watch the 1976 film, without which the number of the beast would probably never have entered popular culture, and the world of heavy metal music would never have been the same.
November 26, 2012
This is what happens when you let others impregnate without checking their references, or even their DNA! One should always make sure to get at least 3 good letters of recommendation, preferably from a local parish, hospital, and a trusted friend. NOT, I repeat NOT from some foreign country where birds are known to attack in flocks and force people out onto roads where they are run over by vans!
References are also important when selecting nannies, maids, drivers, and chums for you otherworldly child. Make sure your nanny doesn't plan on make a sacrifice of herself during some public event like a BIRTHDAY PARTY! Check the health of all your child's friends, to be sure they are resilient and can defend themselves in any situation, and don't ever be alone in the house with your child, ( just in case) he plans your own demise.
References are also important when selecting nannies, maids, drivers, and chums for you otherworldly child. Make sure your nanny doesn't plan on make a sacrifice of herself during some public event like a BIRTHDAY PARTY! Check the health of all your child's friends, to be sure they are resilient and can defend themselves in any situation, and don't ever be alone in the house with your child, ( just in case) he plans your own demise.
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