STALKER is the Martin Kemp-directed remake of the notorious video nasty THE HOUSE ON STRAW HILL, a sordid tale of depravity and murder that came out in the mid-'70s. Thankfully enough has been changed in this story to make it an effective shocker in its own right, one that even fans of the original film will find has surprises in store.
Truth be told, I quite liked this movie. It's no classic but it is a solid little thriller and, given it's a low budget British B-movie, the quality is a lot better than you'd expect. The dull Anna Brecon stars as a mousy writer who goes off to live in a remote country cottage to work on her new novel, only to fall foul of a psychopath.
STALKER benefits from effective direction, some shocking moments of violence, and decent performances from the supporting cast. Best of all is Jane March (COLOUR OF NIGHT) playing the secretary and having a ball with the role. Dependable character actors like Billy Murray and Colin Salmon turn up and are most welcome, and there's even a minor part for Linda Hayden, who of course starred in the original film. STALKER is a film that kept me interested throughout, and that's a rare enough thing for a low budget film these days.
