New movie creates different blend of horror

Spirits terrorize the living yet laughs abound in The Frighteners, the newest film from critically acclaimed director Peter Jackson.

Michael J. Fox, doing a complete turnaround from his Marty McFly or Alex P. Keaton days, is Frank Bannister, a con artist/psychic investigator who enlists the help of three lively spirits to scare up business in the sinister little town of Fairwater.

The town of Fairwater, which was the sight of a particularly gruesome mass murder years before, has a slight problem -- seemingly healthy townspeople are dropping off like flies from heart attacks and other similar health problems.

With the aid of his three ghostly friends and the local doctor (Trini Alvarado), Fox battles the evil Soul Collector, aka Death, from stealing more lives in the already dwindling population.

NOTE: this is all that can be told about the plot. If anymore is divulged, the movie's plot will be ruined. Sorry, you will have to see it for yourself. But don't worry, you won't be disappointed.

Horror veteran Jeffrey Combs does a very creepy turn as a loopy FBI agent who investigates paranormal activity for the bureau. His portrayal as the seasoned agent of cults and psychic activity is frightening and funny at the same time and his over-the-top behavior is just as terrifying as Death itself.

The special effects are inventive and frightening -- don't blush too much if you jump in your seat once or twice. The Judge spirit, wonderfully played by John Astin, is a showstopper. Designed by makeup master Rick Baker, the Judge spirit is eerie and pitifully funny at the same time.

Filmed on location in Jackson's homeland of New Zealand, The Frighteners is more of an autumnal film. The movie's atmosphere is cold, damp and dark. The Frighteners should have been released around Halloween but it is a nice change from invading aliens, twisters and impossible missions.

While some scenes are not for the fainthearted, The Frighteners is an excellent movie, skillfully blending comedy and horror all together. You won't be disappointed. And don't be too surprised at yourself if you look over your shoulder, looking for that Death character ...