What Is The Amityville Horror About?
The premise of The Amityville Horror in 306 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the quiet suburbs of Long Island, a modest Dutch‑colonial house stands out with its distinctive gambrel roof and looming quarter‑circle windows, inviting a sense of both charm and unease. When the Lutz family—George, a pragmatic surveyor wrestling with his own doubts, and his wife Kathy, a gentle soul with a faint Catholic upbringing—move in, they bring with them the hopeful promise of a fresh start. The home’s spacious rooms and sun‑lit façade mask an atmosphere that feels oddly charged, as if the very walls remember whispers from a past that never quite let go.
The film settles into a slow‑burning, atmospheric horror that leans heavily on tension rather than overt scares. Its tone is a blend of domestic realism and creeping dread, letting everyday routines—painting walls, arranging furniture, sharing meals—be tinged with a subtle, almost palpable suspense. The cinematography captures the house’s creaking floors and dark corridors with a measured, lingering gaze, while the muted color palette reinforces the feeling that something unseen watches from the shadows.
When strange disturbances begin to ripple through the household, the Lutzes turn to an unexpected source of guidance: Father Delaney, a weary priest whose own faith is tested by the inexplicable. His presence introduces a measured, spiritual counterweight to the mounting unease, hinting at a deeper conflict between ordinary life and forces beyond comprehension. The dynamic between the skeptical, protective husband, the compassionate, intuitive wife, and the burdened clergyman creates a fragile alliance that feels both human and haunted.
As the house subtly asserts its influence, the family’s struggle becomes a study in resilience and belief. The story asks whether love and courage can hold against an atmosphere that seems to conspire against peace, leaving viewers perched on the edge of anticipation, eager to see how far the darkness will press into the bright corners of domestic life.
What Happens in The Amityville Horror?
The complete story of The Amityville Horror, from the first scene to the last, in 731 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 3 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
“The Amityville Horror” (initially released in July 1979) draws inspiration from the chilling true story of the Lutz family, comprising George Lee Lutz, played by James Brolin, and his wife Kathy Lutz, portrayed by Margot Kidder. In 1975, the couple purchased a quaint Dutch Colonial home in the town of Amityville, located on the picturesque coast of Long Island, New York. The residence, known as “High Hopes,” is emblematic of charm, adorned with its distinctive features, including a Dutch gambrel roof and quarter-circle windows that seem to give the house a pair of haunting eyes.
The film is adapted from the eponymous book penned by Jay Anson in 1977, which, while not directly collaborating with the Lutzes, was based on extensive audio tape recordings of their experiences. This dynamic backdrop becomes increasingly crucial as the narrative unfolds, setting the stage for a series of unsettling events that plague the Lutz family after they move into their new home.
In a grim turn of events, it is revealed that the very abode they chose to make their home was the site of a horrific family murder, where a troubled young man took the lives of his entire family on November 13, 1974. This dark history enables the Lutzes to secure the property for a mere $80,000, significantly lower than its market value of $120,000. Despite being made aware of the house’s ominous past by their realtor, they proceed with the purchase, driven by a mix of excitement and oblivion.
George, who grapples with his faith, finds solace in the presence of Kathy, a nominal Catholic. Their desperation to cleanse their new home prompts them to seek the help of Father Delaney, played by Rod Steiger. However, the priest encounters disturbing phenomena while attempting to bless the home, including a room filled with flies, an acute illness, and painful blisters that appear on his palms. His ordeal only intensifies as he becomes embroiled in a series of harrowing events, culminating in a terrifying car accident that compromises his sanity and physical well-being.
Amidst the chaos, Father Delaney engages in a desperate prayer: > “Give them strength of mind and body, that they may do Your will.” The environment around him becomes increasingly eerie, symbolizing the struggle between ultimate good and malevolent forces. The intensity of these occurrences culminates as he witnesses a statue in the church slowly eroding, a sign of the spiritual warfare at play within the Lutz household. Ultimately, the priest’s mental state deteriorates, and he becomes unresponsive, a victim of the darkness that looms over the family.
As George battles his own demons, he begins to exhibit troubling behavior, marked by an obsession with maintaining the fireplace and splitting logs. The situation escalates when one of their sons suffers an injury from a window, and their daughter forms an unnerving friendship with an imaginary companion named Jody, who manifests a threatening presence. The dark nature of the house becomes evident when Kathy encounters sinister, swine-like eyes lurking outside her daughter’s window, while their dog, Harry, grows fixated on a mysterious basement room.
George’s land surveying business suffers due to his erratic behavior, leading to concern from his partner. Meanwhile, the partner’s wife shows awareness of the house’s unsettling vibe, remarking, “Boy, are these vibes ever strong!” The family experiences an array of paranormal disturbances, from a black, viscous substance seeping through the toilets to mysterious disappearances of their belongings, including a significant amount of cash. Kathy’s Aunt, a nun, even flees the premises, overwhelmed by the oppressive atmosphere.
Haunted by restless nights, George becomes increasingly compelled to check the boathouse at 3:15 a.m., a time riddled with significance tied to the house’s tragic history. Kathy is plagued by dreams revealing gruesome details of the previous family’s demise. Their research leads them to a harrowing discovery: the property is built atop a tribal burial ground, once home to a devil worshiper named Ketcham, adding another layer to the malevolence they unknowingly harbored.
Overwhelmed by the relentless terror, the Lutz family makes a desperate decision to abandon the house one stormy night, leaving behind their possessions in a frantic bid for safety. The final frames inform viewers that, “Today the Lutz’s live in another state,” a testament to the psychological and emotional scars left by their harrowing ordeal. Their chilling story continues to resonate, immortalizing their experience in the annals of horror cinema.
The Amityville Horror Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
13 key events in the order they happen, from “Purchase of the House” to “Aftermath of the Lutz Family”. 12 events name a place, across 4 locations.
- 1
Purchase of the House
In 1975, George and Kathy Lutz decide to buy a charming Dutch Colonial home in Amityville, Long Island, known as 'High Hopes.' They make an offer of $80,000 on the house, which is worth significantly more, due to its troubled past.
When:1975 Where:Amityville, NY
- 2
Family Tragedy in the House
Before the Lutz family moves in, a horrific event takes place in the home. In November 1974, a young man murders his entire family, which leads to the house's notorious reputation, despite full disclosure by the realtor.
When:November 13, 1974 Where:Amityville, NY
- 3
First Experiences in the House
Upon moving in, the Lutz family begins experiencing strange phenomena. George becomes increasingly obsessed with the coldness of the house, while the couple's daughter, Jody, claims to have an imaginary friend with a malevolent demeanor.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 4
Father Delaney's Blessing
In an effort to cleanse the house, the Lutzes invite Father Delaney to bless their home. During the blessing, he faces multiple supernatural obstacles, including an unsettling room filled with flies and violent sickness that ultimately leads to his decline.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 5
Father Delaney's Downfall
Continuing his attempts to combat the evil presence in the house, Father Delaney suffers from a series of traumatic events, including a car accident linked to supernatural interference, leading to his eventual blindness and mental breakdown.
Where:Church and High Hopes, Amityville
- 6
The Crushed Hand Incident
One day, one of the Lutz boys is seriously injured when a sash window falls on his hand. This incident serves as a turning point, highlighting the increasingly dangerous situation within the home.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 7
Mysterious Disappearances
The paranormal activity escalates, and the Lutz family begins to experience disturbing occurrences, such as the disappearance of $1,500 from their home. These incidents further solidify the sense of danger that looms over the family.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 8
Kathy's Terrifying Nightmares
Kathy begins to suffer from horrific nightmares that reveal details about the previous owners' tragic fate. These dreams appear to be linked to the unsettling atmosphere of the house, deeply affecting her mental state.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 9
Discovery at the Library
In search of answers, the Lutz family conducts research at the library and county records office. They uncover that their house was built atop a tribal burial ground, and had previously been owned by a known devil worshiper named Ketcham.
Where:Library, Amityville
- 10
The Disturbing Basement
The family dog, Harry, becomes fixated on a locked room in the basement, heightening the family's unease. His behavior serves as a warning, indicating the presence of something sinister lurking within the home.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
Show the other 3 events of The Amityville Horror Hide the last 3 events
- 11
Escalation of Paranormal Activity
The unsettling occurrences intensify, with the family witnessing strange phenomena like black ooze seeping from the walls and a babysitter mysteriously getting trapped in a closet. The once-charming home transforms into a nightmare.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 12
Family's Final Night
Driven to madness by the malevolent spirit, the Lutz family makes a desperate decision to flee the house one stormy night. They leave everything behind, emphasizing the fear and trauma they have endured during their time in High Hopes.
Where:High Hopes, Amityville
- 13
Aftermath of the Lutz Family
The movie concludes with the revelation that the Lutz family has relocated to another state, leaving behind the torment of their experiences in the house. Their escape illustrates the lasting impact of the horrors they faced.
Who Are the Main Characters in The Amityville Horror?
3 characters, among them George Lutz (James Brolin), Kathy Lutz (Margot Kidder) and Father Delaney (Rod Steiger): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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George Lutz (James Brolin)
Played by James Brolin
George Lutz is a complex character who transforms from an eager homeowner into a troubled individual overwhelmed by the sinister forces in his house. As the supernatural occurrences intensify, his demeanor darkens, showcasing a deepening obsession with the home’s eerie elements. His struggle against these forces highlights themes of strength and vulnerability in facing evil.
- 🏡 Homeowner
- 😠 Anger
- 💔 Trauma
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Kathy Lutz (Margot Kidder)
Played by Margot Kidder
Kathy Lutz serves as both a nurturing mother and a fearful witness to the haunting events unfolding in their new home. As the family faces increasingly disturbing occurrences, she tries to maintain her family's stability but becomes increasingly distressed. Kathy’s character embodies the tension between motherhood, fear, and the desperate search for safety.
- 👩👧👦 Mother
- 😱 Fear
- 🕵️♀️ Investigator
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Father Delaney (Rod Steiger)
Played by Rod Steiger
Father Delaney is a dedicated priest tasked with blessing the Lutz's home. His character represents faith under siege as he confronts overwhelming supernatural forces. His experiences lead to a profound struggle, showcasing the psychological toll of battling forces beyond understanding, ultimately leading to his own breakdown.
- ✝️ Priest
- 📿 Faith
- 😵 Struggle
Where and When Is The Amityville Horror Set?
The Amityville Horror is set in Amityville, Long Island and New York (1975). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1975
The events of the film take place in the fall of 1975, shortly after the Lutz family moves into their new home. This period is significant as it follows a tragic family murder that took place less than a year prior in the same house. The 1970s were marked by a growing interest in the paranormal and the supernatural, reflected in the culturally impactful horror films of the era.
Where
Amityville, Long Island, New York
Amityville is a small village in Suffolk County, New York, known for its picturesque landscape along the coast of Long Island. The Lutz family purchased a Dutch Colonial home there, which is infamous for the tragic events that occurred prior to their arrival. The house, dubbed 'High Hopes,' has become a site of horror stories and urban legends due to its haunting history.
- 🏠 House
- 🌊 Coast
What Are the Themes of The Amityville Horror?
2 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Supernatural and Faith.
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01
Supernatural
The theme of the supernatural is prevalent throughout the movie, as the Lutz family experiences a variety of inexplicable and disturbing phenomena in their new home. These events are deeply tied to the dark history of the house and its connection to previous tragedies. The unseen forces at play highlight fears of the unknown and the impact of malevolence on an ordinary family.
-
02
Faith
Faith, or the struggle with it, is a significant theme in 'The Amityville Horror.' The characters, particularly George and Kathy, face spiritual challenges as they grapple with the evil they encounter. Father Delaney’s attempts to bless the house represent a search for divine protection, suggesting that even faith can be severely tested in the face of overwhelming darkness.
What Kind of Film Is The Amityville Horror?
Dark in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Dark
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Sad
An intensely oppressive and terrifying experience that steadily builds dread as a family is psychologically and physically tormented by an unseen evil in their new home.
- terrifying
- oppressive
- paranoid
- unsettling
- dread-filled
- nightmarish
- haunted house
- supernatural possession
- family in peril
- religious crisis
Content notes: murder, supernatural horror, psychological trauma, child endangerment.
Quiz
How well do you remember The Amityville Horror? Test yourself on the story.
