I don't usually jump during scary movies.  It's a pleasure I usually enjoy vicariously through others.  I'll own up to an embarrasing distinction however:  I was the first person to scream during They Wait.

Fans of Japanese horror will find as many if not more intense scares than they're accustomed to.  An ultra-creepy tone, a tight and efficient running time and the performances of an adorable brown-eyed youngster and an evocative leading woman in Jamie King make They Wait the perfect scary date movie. 

The film boasts a rich visual texture, both in gory scenes and periods of exposition.  The jump-out-of-your seat moments come fast and furious, and the Cumberland sound system was pumped near the max for Friday's world premiere. 

Set against the fascinating historical tapestry of Vancouver's Chinese immigrant community, it takes place during 'hungry ghost month'.   They Wait has broad commercial appeal, but doesn't cheat its audience with a single cliche.    

This one's going to be big folks.  You heard it here first.  Catch the next screening this Sunday at the Scotiabank Theatre. 

http://www.tiff07.ca/filmsandschedules/filmdetails.aspx?ID=706271609031372