The Omen (1976)
Immediately after their miscarriage, the US diplomat Robert Thorn adopts the newborn Damien without the knowledge of his wife. Yet what he doesn’t know is that their new son is the son of the devil.
Details
Budget
$2,800,000
Rating
7/10 (2172 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Mace Neufeld Productions, 20th Century Fox, Harvey Bernhard Productions
About The Omen
Richard Donner's 1976 film, "The Omen," explores themes of religious prophecy and the anti-Christ within a horror and thriller framework. The story centers on US diplomat Robert Thorn, who adopts a child named Damien after his wife experiences a miscarriage, unaware that their new son is connected to darker forces. As Damien grows, a series of unsettling events and a growing sense of dread lead Thorn to confront the possibility that his son is not who he seems.
The film establishes an atmosphere of conspiracy and the paranormal, with keywords like 'devil's son,' 'revelation,' and 'anti-christ' underscoring the central conflict. The narrative builds suspense through various incidents, such as the gruesome suicide of a nanny and prophetic warnings from a priest. These elements contribute to the film's reputation as a classic horror title from the 1970s, maintaining a strong audience rating with a 76% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.5 on IMDb.
Jerry Goldsmith's score, which features choral vocals and strings, plays a role in enhancing the film's suspenseful tone. The story leans into its supernatural premise, gradually revealing the sinister nature surrounding Damien. While some moments might stretch credibility for certain viewers, the film aims to seize and hold attention through its consistent sense of peril.
Why you might be searching for The Omen
People often search for "The Omen" due to its iconic horror imagery and the memorable character of Damien, the devil's son. Key details that stick with audiences include the chilling supernatural events surrounding the child, particularly the disturbing nanny scene and the film's exploration of prophecy and religious horror. Its place as a significant 1970s horror film also makes it a frequent point of reference.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer found the movie to be just okay and a bit overrated, noting that while the ending was strong, the middle section progressed slowly with little of interest happening.
Read the full reviewA re-watcher thought the 1976 version was superior to its remake, citing stronger performances from the original cast and a more genuine attempt to frighten the audience.
Read the full reviewDespite some far-fetched elements, one reviewer considers it their favorite 1970s horror film, praising Richard Donner's ability to build and sustain peril, aided by Jerry Goldsmith's score.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream *The Omen* on Peacock Premium, Philo, and AMC. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. Additionally, the movie can be purchased on Blu-ray.
*The Omen* is not based on a true story. The idea for the film came from an advertising executive who speculated about the Antichrist possibly living on Earth as a child, which inspired producer Harvey Bernard. Screenwriter David Seltzer then developed the script, borrowing from dispensationalism and creating his own plot points, some of which are not found in the Bible.
At the end of *The Omen*, Robert Thorn discovers the birthmark of three sixes on his adopted son Damien, confirming he is the Antichrist. After killing Damien's sinister nanny, Mrs. Baylock, Robert tries to kill Damien with daggers in a cathedral, but police arrive and fatally shoot him. Robert and his wife Katherine are given a double funeral, which the U.S. President and First Lady attend. Damien is shown holding the First Lady's hand, then turns and smiles at the audience, suggesting he will continue to rise to power.
Critics generally consider *The Omen* a classic horror film that builds suspense effectively. Retrospective reviews on Rotten Tomatoes give it a 76% approval rating, with the consensus that it's an "enduring, dread-soaked horror classic." However, some critics found parts of the plot implausible or the ending sad and pointless.