"Loud" does not equal "scary." That’s something no one seemed to have told director James Watkins before he embarked on The Woman in Black, a film that is being described as an old school ghost story. And yes, it is indeed old school; however, it all too often relies on tiresome modern scare tactics to the point where it becomes laughable.

Seasoned horror fans will find themselves filled with ennui and creating a mental checklist of every genre trope imaginable the film calls upon - usually with ear-piercing vigor. Newcomers to fright fare – and I imagine that is this PG-13 film’s draw – will likely enjoy the supernatural assault it offers and seeing former Potter, Daniel Radcliffe, pushing his way through a house of horrors. (Cinema, The Woman in Black) 5/10