A Nightmare on Elm Street

Much like he would achieve with "Scream" a decade later, Wes Craven revolutionised horror with this neat twist on the standard "stalker/slasher" film.

The film achieves greatness because it uses themes and situations that most people have dreamed about from time to time e.g. Trying to run away from someone but finding that the ground has turned to porridge and you can't escape. This is in contrast with later editions of the series, which became more outlandish with the dreamscapes.

The SFX, although made on a lower budget, are more realistic than the sequels, as is the acting and characterisation. Heather Lagenkamp, in particular, merits reward for her moving portrayal as a troubled teen who refuses to quit in the face of overwhelming odds. For a debut performance, Johnny Depp demonstrates the skill that is evident in films such as "Edward Scissorhands", making the character of Glen seem like a regular guy on the street. The supporting cast are also of a high calibre, although the characters of Tina and Rod are underused. Ronee Blakely comes close to descending into melodrama, but narrowly misses it, provoking feelings of sentiment. John Saxon, is good in his role as Nancy's father and is a stand-out of the film. The key performer, though, has to be Robert Englund. In an evolution of his character from "Death Trap", Englund oozes disdain and sleaze as Fred Krueger. His performance is subdued and never descends into the pantomime performances of "baddies" such as Jason Vorhees. The character is displayed as the typical psychopath i.e. charismatic, intelligent but with no regard for life. Although they would be diluted as the series continued, Krueger's actions and reactions are frightening and close to the knuckle.

The only flaws with the film are the music, especially the dismal closing credits theme and the ending, which was tagged on at the behest of New Line cinema to open the possiblity of sequels. It spoils the mood of the film, detracting from it's overall high quality.

Overall, though, it is a recommended film and minor masterpiece.