MGM+ New Docuseries "Amityville: An Origin Story" Sparks Our Curiosity Like Never Before
(The Lutz Family)
MGM+ is set to release their new docuseries "Amityville: An Origin Story" this weekend, and it makes you second guess everything you thought you knew about The Amityville Horror. MGM was kind enough to give MacabreDaily a first look at the docuseries and we came out of it even more enamored with all that took place in Amityville.
We're presented with a timeline that dives into not only the Lutz family’s (who the original film centered on) experiences in their 28 days spent in the home, but also what aspects lead us to believe if this was a real-life horror or as some think, a hoax. Additionally we get some backstory on the DeFeo family murders that are sure to leave you with an unsettling feeling in the pit of your stomach.
The Amityville Horror was released in July of 1979. Almost 45 years later, 112 Ocean Avenue remains one of the most renowned "haunted houses" in North America. Since the original film, there have been countless adaptations that have come out through the years, including Amityville II: The Possession, Amityville 3-D, and the more recent and obscure Amityville Karen. As disturbing as it may seem, there is something about a haunted house that is based on “true events” that keeps us wanting more, and I believe that’s why this franchise has gone on for so long and is so well known.
(Ronald DeFeo Jr. and a crime scene photo from 112 Ocean Avenue)
This docuseries exceeded my expectations and truly gave me a newfound love for The Amityville Horror. With never-before-seen interviews from friends and those who were involved with the Lutz and DeFeo families, you get a glimpse into what their lives were like at that point in time. What I really enjoyed was that it wasn’t just about the Lutz family. Don’t get me wrong, what they experienced in that home will be told for generations and it already has, but the DeFeo family murders paved the way for these stories and they finally got the recognition they deserve. I know that sounds a bit morbid and I’m not idolizing Ronnie DeFeo Jr. for the crimes that he committed, but I find it so intriguing and wonder what could have been going through his mind at the time.
The amount of detail that is left out in the original film beautifully shines through in the docuseries. It feels as if you’re transported back in time to the mid-’70s; you build a special connection with the Lutz and DeFeo families even though we’ve never physically met them.
The interviews are genuine and provide us with information that we probably would have not known otherwise. After I finished watching, I found myself sitting there and wondering “What really went on in that house?” Unfortunately, we may never truly know, but at least now we have a bit more clarity.
“Amityville: An Origin Story” premieres this Sunday, April 23rd only on MGM+.
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