User Score
8.1 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 676 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 73 out of 676

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  1. Apr 26, 2013
    2
    This movie was a very generic horror picture. The acting, the plot, the set, the music was average at best. Lacked the tension, and true horror the video game Silent Hill had back in the days.
  2. Apr 15, 2013
    0
    Completely contradicts the game. Takes Silent Hill a game about ghost and demons and turns it into a generic witch movie. Based off the first game but uses monsters from the second(all the monsters in Silent Hill have symbolic meaning so using them in a different story contradicts that). This movie is untrue and an insult to the game and is just a unscary boring movie. If anyone's seen the Indiana Jones episode of South Park what happens in that episode is the best way to describe this movie. Expand
  3. Mar 10, 2013
    8
    Trasposizione cinematografica della celebre saga di survival horror inventata da Konami nel 1999, Silent Hill un film dai moltissimi lati positivi e pochi negativi. Iniziando da questi ultimi si può evidenziare la storia, lunga, articolata, ricca di false piste, e troppo ingarbugliata che verrà risolta da un lungo monologo finale. Per quanto riguarda gli aspetti positivi se ne possono elelencare molti, prima di tutto la fotografia molto bella e adattissima a questo tipo di film, i personaggi: la mamma Rose che fa di tutto per salvare la figlia Sharon legata in modo sinistro alla cittadina della collina silente, Il padre interpretato da un bravo Sean Bean. intento a riportare a casa la moglie e la figlia dalla città maledetta nella quale però lui non riuscirà mai ad accedere dato che rimarrà bloccato nella Silent Hill reale quella dove il sole splende e dove i mostri non esistono. Infine un complimento alla poliziotta che finisce per aiutare pure lei Rose nel suo intento.
    La fine poco risolutiva a portato naturalmente a un seguito "Silent hill revelation".
    Expand
  4. Mar 6, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. By far the best movie based on a video game. Silent Hill is a 2006 horror film directed by Christophe Gens. The plot is about Rose De Silve scared that the attacks of sleepwalking daughter decides to take her to the city that this city always in his dreams. While you are heading to the city, have a car accident and wake up Rose can no longer find his daughter in the car and goes to look for her in Silent Hill. The film shows the typical atmosphere of Silent Hill thanks to a very accurate picture, the scenery breathtaking and the famous monsters that I can put the viewer concern and represent Alessa's nightmares. Also good plot and actors. Expand
  5. Feb 24, 2013
    8
    Wow I'm seven years late for this review but after watching silent hill revelation I must defend this classic by showing(or more accurately)writing this review of the one that started the movies version of this once great video game series. First the good: if you love..wait let me re-write this so I'm clear....IF YOU LOVE SILENT HILL(game)YOU.WILL.LOVE.THIS.MOVIE.PERIOD!! Silent hill alm almost perfectly resembles the first game with the exception of the lead characters gender.While I don't have a problem with this change,some hardcore fans of the series will be disappointed but Rachel(aka rose)does great job as she ventures into purgatory(hell?)to save her daughter the adopted sherry.What this movie does correctly(& better)then silent hill revelation is really helping the audience understand the nature of silent hill,characters and what there willing to go through to save their daughter! Rose(rahda) is commanding as she searches relentlessly for sharin will being relentlessly tormented by the evil that lurks around every corner while her husband(played by sean bean) searches for rose.silent hill makes anyone who ventures there suffer until they are killed or worse..become trapped in the eternal nightmare that is silent hill..this is evident when rose reaches the school and when it changes she runs toward the camera pulling on a gate while screaming her lungs out while looking for an exit or when she see's pyramid head any his legion of killer bugs....an exhausted rose gives in waits for her impending fate only to be saved by cebil! This is silent hill in its entirety....to torment you to the point of submission which revelation had neither. Pyramid head in silent hill is much more menacing in the first movie because he's powerful meant to be feared as he rips the skin off a poor soul throws her still warm flesh into the church but is reduced to a mere body guard in revelation...oh god...silent hill also has good pacing. It took its time with each character even if they were expendable which keep the spirit of the games has a MUCH better version of the occult that lived in silent hill vs revelation as the occult seemed like an unimportant afterthought used as filler to extend the movie.The bad:since i played the first games almost everyday the movie was kinda predictable but thats as bad as it was for me. The ending of silent hill,unlike revelation,was a nightmare come true for the damned soul in silent hill as alessa her evil half gruesomely kills the occult zealots inside the church!!The story,pacing,camera angles,sound most importantly...THE ESSENCE OF THE SILENT HILL GAMES ARE DONE PERFECTLY IN THIS DEFINITIVE VERSION OF SILENT HILL FOR THE BIG SCREEN! Skip revelation not only because this one is better but for the fact that at the end of silent hill the good part of alessa was no longer needed was either returned to alessa or killed by the evil that gave alessa the power to create hell that kept the occult rose in silent hill. End of story 8/10 Expand
  6. Feb 18, 2013
    7
    As both a horror and video game fan I was at first quite sceptical about this title. But unlike the, to me, quite close to disastrous, Resident Evil remakes (although I haven't seen RE: Afterlife yet) I was pretty much surprised about Silent Hill. The atmosphere in the games is amazing. And I think they managed to convert it into the movie pretty well. The acting isn't bad at all either. Jodelle Ferland who seems really talented to me (based on her roles in Kingdom Hospital Tideland) again is pretty steady in this movie although her role is quite small this time. Same as Radha Mitchell and Sean Bean act pretty decent. You can easily imagine the fear Mitchell (Playing the main character) is experiencing during her forced visit to lovely Silent Hill. Like most horror movies nowadays this one isn't outstanding either but it definitely will not waste your time. Expand
  7. Feb 10, 2013
    10
    silent hill es un deleite visual pero el guion no es tan fuerte como esperábamos sin embargo tiene actuaciones fuertes y una dirección increíble silent hill va a hacer el éxito del verano
  8. Jan 22, 2013
    6
    Not a great movie by far, but to be fair a decent adaptation that stay surprisingly true to the source material. Plenty of better horrors out there, but as far as video game adaptations are concerned, this one isn't half bad. A decent attempt and worthy as a budget purchase. Mandatory if you are a fan of the games.
  9. Jan 13, 2013
    7
    I think that this movie is actually not that bad. I don't know why did it receive such low scores from critics. The theme and concept of the movie are great, its just overlong with too many unnecessary scenes.
  10. Dec 19, 2012
    10
    this has to be the best video game to film adaptation that i have ever seen. the soundtrack was brilliant, the lighting and shading used to portray silent hill was spot on, most of the monsters were made using real people and make-up instead of crap overused CGI, the acting was actually okay for this genre. it's only setback would be that the ending was slightly flawed as it contradicted itself and it didn't have enough pyramid head in it! but overall, this film is a small step forward in the ongoing war to actually make good video to game movies. Expand
  11. Nov 29, 2012
    7
    I love the games and i was curious about this movie, it was enjoyable some part were good designed and the story was also nice. It's was a movie that i enjoyed and the ending was one of the best parts but there is horror movies that i enjoyed more. For a Silent Hill lover it is a decent movie but for someone that don't know the games is a little blank.
  12. Nov 23, 2012
    6
    Jill.K
    I have a story to tell. It is identical to silent hill. I was born in a town somewhere east. My family watched Porn at my present. I applied it on my pillow. From that day onwards, I was masterbating. I hid under the bed. Sometimes doing it while reading books. I did it for a hour or so. I did it to my mother. And my mother was **** by my grandfather. He scolded my mother often for
    stupid. I susposed it was because she don't know how to **** From that days onwards, my family sex with one another. I had a family of 8. At my teen. I felt myself impotent. I was very frustrated. I went mad. While I was mad, I learned a Malay Martial Art. I hit a woman's nose. Her nose was broken and her blood spill violently. She lived for 2 years. She was someone who love to live but she lived painfully. She dug her nose ultil dead. Before she died, she put a curse on me. My family helped. They performed a ritual while I was not around. IT was very dirty. She was **** by my family and her nose was eaten alive. She died very painfully. I think it was a Malay Ritual. She was buried at rubbish bin near my house. they swore to take revenge. From that day onwards I saw ghosts. I suffered a lot of mental torture. I died and alive a lot of times. I did not know she was dead until one day. I saw her vision in my body crying very pitifully. She said she was dead. It was very strange. Nobody mentioned a words but my house had changed when I returned back one day. The Mayor must have allowed it. I saw the house is very dark, nobody live and the pathway changed. I think that was the place they performed the Ritual. My door sign was changed to the woman door sign. Until now I still under mental torture. Expand
  13. Nov 3, 2012
    8
    Great game to movie adaptation.
  14. Oct 2, 2012
    6
    Silent Hill is a decent but average video game-adapted movie. I'm not a fan of the Silent Hill game series, feels too much the same as Resident Evil did. But the movie was good although the story seems a bit awkward and the monsters look creepy to me. I wonder if there are more zombies in the sequel which is coming out on Oct. 26, 2012. I think it's near halfway through the best video game movie ever. Expand
  15. Aug 29, 2012
    8
    Silent Hill is the film adaptation of the hit Japanese psychological horror games that spawned the survival horror game phenomena back in the late 90's. Sharon Da Silva sleepwalks and dreams of a place named Silent Hill, her mother Rose is determined to find out why this is so decides to take her daughter to the abandoned mining town which was destroyed by a fire many years before. On arrival to the town Rose and a female police officer have a road collision and are now stranded in Silent Hill after the roads that lead to the towns exit are now mysteriously gone. With Sharon gone and the two women trapped in the remains of the most haunted town in America they must uncover the past to both the town and Sharon as well as expose an ancient evil that is slowly regaining power over the town. The film is by no means a great adaptation but it does live up to the Silent Hill name and worthy of a look if you enjoy the games. Expand
  16. Aug 12, 2012
    10
    This is perhaps the best movie based on a video game ever. The way it resembles the game (ex. visuals, music, story) make it truly a great film based on a video game series. If you played a Silent Hill game than this is all familiar to you and you will appreciate the awesomeness of the film.
  17. Jun 26, 2012
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. For all the guys who played Silent Hill, this is a masterpiece. For all the guys who didn't It's still a masterpiece. The thing is, the guys who didn't will never get the plot. It's as deep as the game goes. Expand
  18. May 31, 2012
    10
    This is the best horror movie ever made the critics obviously have no idea what the words "deep storyline" means this is so true to the game its ridiculous its also one of the only movie based off of a video game that was a good movie instead of things popping out at you every 5 seconds this movie delves deeper then that the beginning starts kinda slow but once you get to silent hill it starts to get interesting the psychological horror is is amazing with flashbacks and hallucinations and with few but huge scares this movie will keep you guessing and want more Expand
  19. May 30, 2012
    5
    It's just okay. I'm a huge fan of the silent hill series, and there are a lot of things this movie does right such as the art direction and the settings always look great through the whole movie. However there were many changes to the plot that I found unnecessary and caused it to lose the unique touch that the older games had. Also the script writing is very hit and miss, sometimes the dialogue is good, other times it falls flat on it's face. I know SH1 wasn't exactly a shining example of good script writing and voiceovers but that was a game made in the 90s. I will say that it's miles above many of the other game-to-movie adaptations and doesn't just feel like a cheap cash in. It just could have used a lot of improvements and I really wanted to see the actual story of silent hill 1 play out in a movie... I mean how can you make a movie based on the first game and not include Harry Mason? Expand
  20. Mar 8, 2012
    10
    I saw this movie again recently. This is a great horror movie: the acting, direction and storyline are all very convincing, and the flawless blend of make-up effects and CGI helps drag you right into the hell that is Silent Hill. The ending is ambiguous; after watching this movie several times since it was released, I still am not sure whether the main characters are dead and in Hell, or alive, and trapped in an alternate dimension somewhere between here and the Devil's realm. I like that it is not explained, so it makes you think, and wonder.... A dark, beautiful, horrifying vision of what can happen when hatred and true Evil meet. Expand
  21. Jan 4, 2012
    6
    Though not as emotional or deep provoking as the game series, it packed some good scares, and music to my ears soundtrack but the things that made silent hill fans cry because of the game never appeared in the film but don't be disappointed.
  22. Dec 14, 2011
    4
    A mediocre movie that butchered the original story about Silent Hill and officially marks the death of Silent Hill. The only reason why this mediocre movie is considered the best video game adaption is because the other movies are unwatchable (thanks to Uwe Boll). 4/10-and only because it's watchable. And that's extremely generous score.
  23. Aug 12, 2011
    6
    It's funny that I don't know how to place this movie. I've now watched it a handful of times, which should lead me to say that I liked this movie, but I don't know if that's the case. The bad guys, like the nurses and the huge man with the long metal pieces are fantastic and the setting is creepy as hell. However, the ending gets bogged down in religion and back stories that no one gives a crap about. Expand
  24. Apr 15, 2011
    10
    This movie is downright scary, it made me crawl within my seat, i played some games and there also really scary thought the games are better than the movie but it was a cool movie
  25. ALF
    Apr 3, 2011
    10
    I am not surprised Roger Ebert did not understand the story, it required he actually saw it and Roger do you actually have any functioning synapses? I know complexity to story is rather beyond some film goers these days, so buy it on DVD and watch it several times, it may sink in then. This film is an adapted video game and shows great creativity with more creature creations from Patrick Tatapoulos who with Stan Winston have probably created some of the best creatures seen in film. In essence it is a film about revenge on religious zealots who "kill" a child. The young actress who plays three parts I last saw playing a ghost in Kingdom Hospital and clearly has no problem playing highly variable roles from a sweet child to the manifestation of evil.. This film is hauntingl beautiful with great incidentatl music and the ending, well try it. Expand
  26. Mar 25, 2011
    5
    And... waht can i say? That movie rocks and sucks at the same time. The plot is kinda confusing because they wanted to put the most significant things of SH in the movie (Alessa and Pyramid Head). Fails as a remake of the experience of Harry Mason, but is kinda good. I guess.
  27. Jan 13, 2011
    8
    This movie is really, really good. That's a best movie based on game that I've ever seen. The director is succeed in bringing the horror atmosphere from game to film. But looks like he just do that movie for fans so it can't take a high score. That's so sad....
  28. Dec 4, 2010
    10
    The movie was interesting and even though it had a slow start it picks up like most movies. This by far was the best horror movie I have seen created in this century. The acting wasn't too bad but there were moments where the characters don't give you the feel of the movie. The monsters were probably the most realistic then any other movie I have ever seen. The atmosphere gives you an eerie feeling. The music was excellent and was played at the right moments. There were parts in the movie that made me think what the hell am I watching. In my personal opinion I thought the movie was perfect. Expand
  29. Sep 19, 2010
    2
    A process of illustrating this movie is quite flawless, soulless, and joyless. Of course, the set design of scree translations is too much anomalous from that of the original game.
  30. JamesD
    Feb 16, 2010
    9
    Amazing movie, it gets confusing at the end, but in every other way its amazing!
  31. BenjaminP
    Jan 22, 2010
    7
    I dunno. Maybe it's because I used the play the original Playstation game back in the day, but I thought this movie was surprisingly good. It was maybe a little predictable, but whatever. You have to apply a willful suspension of disbelief with horror stories like this. Ultimately, I thought the movie made a pretty convincing statement about society on a metaphorical level. Don't take too much stock in what the critics say about this one. Sometimes bad movies can be totally awesome. (Easily one of the best renditions of hell I've ever seen.) Expand
  32. KenL.
    Nov 6, 2009
    8
    I found that the critics' low score in Silent Hill to totally unjustified. I seriously suspect their low scores were more to do with the fact that Silent Hill was adapted from a video game than anything else. I was intially "dragged" into seeing it, and I was under the perception that this would be another of those mindless popcorn movie. I came out of the cinema feeling rather intrigued by it. And let me put this into perspective: I'd never played the game (and I don't plan to) before I saw it nor I was a fan of the horror genre. While I could see why the critics would give low scores to a movie like "Transformers 2", the low scores they gave for Silent Hill showed us that critics could be equally fanboys when it comes to something that they have perceived snobbery upon like video game entertainments. The bottom line is, while Silent Hill may not be any Oscar materials, it definitely is a solid above average horror/suspense/thriller movie. Expand
  33. MattB.
    Oct 28, 2009
    8
    Silent Hill was an extraordinary horror film. That. *shock* actually focused on horror, rather then scaring you senseless or portraying as many grotesque maulings as it could. The movie was dramatic, though the acting wasn't perfect, the scenes were amazing. They felt both real, AND terrifying. The plot is not dry at all, in fact, I've few times seen something done that Silent Hill did. While it can be somewhat confusing, that only adds to the mystery and suspense. Instead of having your movie spoon fed to you, it makes you think. I didn't even play the game and I liked it. Expand
  34. Kamikun
    Oct 1, 2009
    9
    What it lacks in greater-than-mediocre acting and coherence of story it makes up for in an atmosphere as thick as the fog in the Silent Hill games, monster design that raises the bar even by today's standards and an amazing soundtrack consisting entirely of tracks composed by Akira Yamaoka for the original game series. A must see for any fan of the games!
  35. D.S.
    Aug 22, 2009
    7
    At first I was going to give this movie an 8 or maybe even a 9, but then I actually played the games (all 1-4 of them!) and realized that: 1.The games are far more engaging in story and character than most movies ive ever seen and most especially this movie. 2. It is much like watching someone play the video game. (watching someone actually play the video game is, in fact, quite entertaining in itself though, especially with commentary from an unexpecting gamer) Overall, the movie is great fun with truly sick scenery and atmosphere combined with a great soundtrack from Akira Yamaoka (who also created the soundtrack for the games). Its drawbacks are its somewhat incoherent story (suggest playing the game first for a much greater understanding of the movie),lackluster dialouge at times (though not as bad as critics say) and the aforementioned fact that the video game itself is more engaging than the movie. I must say that, though not that scary, it is superior to most of the recent horror titles out there at the moment due to atmosphere and a plot, though messy, will keep you entirely glued to the seat throughout the movie. Expand
  36. GrantZ
    Aug 22, 2009
    9
    For the critics, i'm guessing they haven't played the games. To truly understand the plot, you need to have played the games. The film relies on them. It captures the atmosphere well.... but does miss out on the physchological horror in favour for gore. Still.... it's very good. And Pyramid Head's appearance was justified too. He was there as an object of the guilt of the towns people. A good movie, so good in fact they're making a sequel. Expand
  37. DreH
    Jun 25, 2009
    10
    One of the best horror movies ever produced and definitely one of the better games-> movie. I was confused that one character was in both the past and present and looked exactly the same, but then researched the issue and saw, if you look, you can tell he does age. Coulda did a better job at that, otherwise, this movie hits the mark. Loved the resolution and Outcome
  38. NotTelling
    Jun 21, 2009
    10
    The only people detached from reality seem to be the professional film critics. If you liked the games, you'll like the movie. It appears film critics have become so complacent with slapping bad scores on game-to-movie adaptations that they didn't even care to look at what they were reviewing before choosing a score. After all, when the plot (while it was still a game) is critically acclaimed by a majority of game reviewers, it doesn't make sense for it to only achieve a 30 from movie reviewers. Expand
  39. KeenanS
    Jun 15, 2009
    10
    This is one of my favorite films of all time. When I was the film, I didn't even know it was based on a game franchise. This film was absolutely amazing with its frightening atmosphere, fantastic music, great actors, a good storyline, and just about everything else. Forget what the critics said about this film, it's practically perfect! This film was amazing and is a must-see for any horror fanatics, you'll be blown away. Expand
  40. AndrewM
    May 31, 2009
    8
    I think its fair to say that this movie wasn't made that well. it has plenty of directorial and acting flaws but you know what? its fun. its an enjoyable movie to watch for fans of both horror movies in general and fans of the game particularly. Like many have said, the atmosphere is great. A lot of its shots are done quite well.
  41. xyzface
    May 18, 2009
    9
    One the most intense enthralling films iv seen .. very surprised by the critics reviews, it shows that they haven't played or have any interest in the original subject matter that is the silent hill games.
  42. JayH
    May 13, 2009
    2
    A promising starts gives way to something completely unrelated to the series I love. To say it's a disappointing film would imply some kind of expectation from a video game to film cash in, so let's just say it sucked.
  43. cecilep
    Mar 29, 2009
    8
    The nightmarish aspect of silent hill puts up and above any other horror movie I've watched, and the ending though confusing was a nice touch.
  44. AndrewL
    Mar 18, 2009
    9
    So I watched this movie for the 2nd time (after 3 years), and I was entertained again. I don't understand why professional critics are rating this movie so low. Movie versions of videogames are difficult to do, but Silent Hill did a good job of it. Good pacing, incredible special effects, good acting, a nice new take on the original story... I was solidly entertained. Fans of the games will notice and appreciate many things. Expand
  45. AceT
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    Probably the best film adaption of a game to date. Its obvious the reviewers have never played the game otherwise they would know how much the film realtes to the game.
  46. MichaelL
    Dec 22, 2008
    8
    The movie didn't stay too accurate to the game, but it did maintain the game's feel. When I first saw the movie I had not played any of the game and it got me to. Movie critics are all idiots. This was a good movie, the only flaw was the very ending, but it didn't ruin it like the ending of the mist. I was embarrassed to be a king fan when i went to that movie. This definitely is better that the Resident Evil movies. Not disappointing in the least. Expand
  47. Michelle
    Aug 21, 2008
    10
    Chris, I don't care what you say; this movie is b-e-a-utiful.
  48. sydneyo
    Aug 5, 2008
    8
    Nicely done on the special effects. the movie is well scripted to make it have a dark feeling to it. silent hill is a great horror/suspense film.
  49. AmandaH
    Aug 4, 2008
    8
    I believe the main reason that this movie got bad reviews from the critics is because it remains very faithful to the story line of the video game series. Because of how intricate the series is, many people who have never played the game may think the plot of the movie was way too confusing and hard to follow. In actuality, this movie tied much of the series together and helped tie together any loose ends one may have had from playing the game. As an avid gamer, I was extremely pleased with story and atmosphere of the movie, and again how it remained so faithful to the original series (even the process of finding key items, such as a gun and flashlight, as one would in the video game). The critics apparently can't appreciate anything that's not the same action-packed crap as other horror movies (I hated the Resident Evil movies, by the way, BECAUSE of how much I loved the game series). Expand
  50. MangoP.
    May 29, 2008
    9
    Yet another film that is so brilliant as to expose how utterly irrelevant it's critic's are. The plot is not "confusing", it simply forces you to THINK and not have it spoon fed to you. Bad acting? What bad acting? Are you kidding me? Look, Enjoy this if you have a mind and an eye for aesthetics. Everyone else, leave this work of brilliance alone. The music, atmosphere, art direction, and acting are peerless, and the plot is excellent with an ending that is at once sad and cathartic. Silent Hill is A Film that is not to be missed by those who can understand how to appreciate it. Minus one point for not being QUITE as scary as it could have been, but still succeeding otherwise on all fronts. Highly recommended. Expand
  51. CharlesJ
    Apr 30, 2008
    8
    It was the fewest video game-based movies that had the basic formula right. However, this was one of the movies that never received a chance to popular demand.
  52. StefanK.
    Apr 25, 2008
    10
    Kafkaesque... There is nothing more you have to say!
  53. Meta
    Apr 6, 2008
    2
    I am usually pretty forgiving when it comes to movies, but it's hard to go easy on this one. Granted, the special effects weren't bad at all, and some of the scenes were very nicely put together. But that's really where the honest praise must end, even for fans of the game. I hate to say it, but this was some of the worst acting I've seen in a long time, and again I�39;m really not that picky. Of course, the script didn't give the actors much to work with in the first place. Perhaps most disappointing was the lack of credibility of the characters. Sure, terribly stupid decisions are pretty much commonplace in horror flicks, but this one really stretched things. I really think a lot more could have been achieved with this cast, budget, and the basic premises of Silent Hill, the game. Too bad, really. Expand
  54. GeorgeM.
    Mar 23, 2008
    10
    Best thriller movie!!! a perfect blend of horror and drama. Emotional and yet scary. They should make more movies like this!
  55. Nutella
    Mar 10, 2008
    9
    I feel bonded with the movie since it successfully employs lots of elements from morality problems of human nature, demonstrating them in a charismatically quasi-symbolical way. The most critic-vulnerable element was the deus ex machina thing, explaining the rationale of the whole thing in a few sentences. nonetheless, if not for anything, should be appreciated for stating faith of any kind has no de facto morality guarantee, and closer to deviation and perversion even from faithlessness itself. Perfect for watching, but not consuming. Ignore critic rating. Collapse
  56. FeliciaM.
    Feb 27, 2008
    10
    I find this movie thrilling and breath taking. Two thumbs up all the way!
  57. JohnD.
    Feb 27, 2008
    8
    All I wanna say is that Wesley Morris is one of the worst critics ever.
  58. LucasR.
    Jan 6, 2008
    10
    One of the best videogame adaptations ever. Silent Hill makes you feel like being in the town itself. If you play(and like) the game, you must see this movie.If you don´t, it´s a superb horror-thriller movie.
  59. DeanS
    Dec 31, 2007
    3
    Long, boring, confusing, with bad acting and dialogue. Yet it was a least visually interesting, though I think I would have been better off playing the game.
  60. HamiltonR.
    Oct 29, 2007
    9
    Amazing movie. All the critics on here with the low scores are clearly morons who can't comprehend a real plot. Great plot, best video game movie out there, definately a must see if you can comprehend plots that aren't laid out in front of you.
  61. BlakK.
    Sep 16, 2007
    8
    I wouldn't say this is a GREAT film, but it's definitely one of the better translations. I don't know why they messed around with the plot of the original game; it was fine the way it was. The special effects and visuals were awesome; they really did a good job bringing the town of Silent Hill to life. Honestly, I wouldn't put much stock into the critics' reviews. The majority of them don't even understand what's going on in the movie. If you're a Silent Hill fan, though, it should all make perfect sense. Expand
  62. PW.
    Sep 16, 2007
    7
    Critics give it 30/100 and user comments give it 81/100. I know which I trust more. Most of those critics probably aren't videogame fans, let alone have ever played and understood the ideas behind Silent Hills. It's a psychological/mythological/horror hybrid. This film is the only one so far to be true to the videogame it is based on for, like the game, it lets you wallow in the atmosphere rather than bomarding you with action every few seconds and it doesn't cheat the viewer by having a totally upbeat ending. Expand
  63. AjayJ
    May 28, 2007
    8
    The fact that all the critics and users here that have commented, are so baffled by this film, shows how much Christopher Gans and everyone involved in the film, succeeded in bringing this film to the big screen.. Its far from perfect, the plot does go dry toward the end, and some of the acting isnt all that, but it shows just how clear the vision was for this film. Every fan of the game knows that your left with the WTF factor after playing the games, and im so glad they kept that for the film.. I loved every second of the film just like i have loved the games for many years.. The atmosphere and visuals are brilliant, as well as the haunting soundtrack and the creepy monsters.. They still have a way to go to making this the best video game - film, but all in all i was very impressed.. 8/10 Expand
  64. ApocalypseBrown
    May 26, 2007
    7
    The best game-movie adaptation yet to hit the big screen. The acting, mood and lighting were mostly good. However, Sean Bean was terrible! It's defiantly a film for Silent Hill fans, as the casual viewer may get bored with the slow pacing.
  65. ND
    Apr 1, 2007
    4
    Dull and never even remotely scary. Bored long before the end.
  66. AaronW.
    Mar 30, 2007
    6
    The film adaptation of Silent Hill shouldn't receive awards in all categories equally - far from it. However, it does enough with what it has to warrant a look if you like "creepy", though perhaps not if you want to see a 4 star movie Pros: Visuals - The Darkness is very "off"... in a good way (Filmed in HD) TERRIFIC ambiance and atmosphere - Silent Hill's one "true" strength. The Otherworld/Darkness setting is very well done. Silent Hill itself also gives you the feeling of isolation. The... "unique" soundtrack, taken from the games themselves, feels very well placed. Great monster costumes - Pyramid Head especially. Cons: Acting - Cheesy at times ("They used to say this town was haunted" LOL) Development - Character personalities seem underdeveloped, and the plot seems to run around like a headless chicken for the 1st half of the movie. Expand
  67. JenR.
    Mar 23, 2007
    10
    I just finished watching this movie, and I have just one question: WTF? I mean, what the heck was that? But I loved it and would recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind sitting with thier eyebrows raised for 2 hours. You know, if David Lynch had directed this, all the critics would be falling over themselves at how brilliant and atmospheric it is. I totally enjoyed every single scene in this movie, even though I have no idea what most of it means. And usually I hate gory movies, but there was something so stunning and crazy about the violence that I couldn't even hide my eyes. The movie is a visual feast and a visual poem. I am going to buy the DVD tomorrow to see it widescreen and with subtitles. Expand
  68. RandyM.
    Mar 19, 2007
    7
    While the atmosphere provides chills, nothing else does. However, this is the best video game to movie transition yet.....but we've still got a long way to go.
  69. Special_b
    Feb 18, 2007
    9
    This movie was different and that's why I liked it so much. It had some extremely odd and corny dialogue ("They used to say this town was haunted"), but I didn't feel bored once and even if the basis for the story has been used several times, I can't recall it ever being handled the way it was in this film. Brilliant.
  70. KennyT.
    Feb 16, 2007
    10
    Great imagery, great atmosphere, and good acting. . . I think the critics thought "video game adaption=crappy movie" and skipped out on actually watching it.
  71. HansB.
    Jan 16, 2007
    2
    I don't like video games. This was a film with a good story that was elaborated on lousily. The characters did not develop, nor was there any insight in there motives. And the end was just misty, made for part 2, I guess.
  72. Riren
    Jan 10, 2007
    8
    Very possibly the best videogame movie of all time, not that this is much of an accolade. A truly great soundtrack and use of sound design is coupled with stellar art direction to create an amazingly tense, curious and dangerous atmosphere. The creature designs are horrifying and elaborate. Unfortunately the plot is so confusing that only fans of the game series will truly understand this film. It's great for its own fans, but is sure to leave newcomers with questions they will be unable to answer. The deeply symbolic nature of the film, embedded in setting and creature designs, always relevant to the plot progression, will likely be overlooked by those who can't get over a few vague details. If you give into it, though, you are in for a darkly entertaining journey. Expand
  73. IanG.
    Dec 28, 2006
    8
    Once again the critics prove why I don't buy film magazines. This was an excellent film and thoroughly enjoyable. Excellent use of imagery and atmosphere, and while it could have been better, not by much. Pulled me in and kept me until the end!
  74. MikeM.
    Nov 30, 2006
    8
    Obviously the storyline and acting aren't going to be that great. It's a multi-million dollar production based on a video game. This is to be completely expected. What I didn't expect, however, was for the director to be TOO GOOD for this particular production. The sound design is absolutely flawless, and easily deserves Oscar recognition (though it would never get any), and the cinematography and atmospheric techniques are fantastic. Easily the best video game adaptation film next to Mortal Kombat, Silent Hill is surprisingly not bad at all. At least it doesn't cop out for cheap surprise thrills that any amateur filmmaker could place in any "scary" movie. Silent Hill has a genuinely frightening atmosphere and spooky sound design that are worth admission alone. Don't go in thinking it's going to be well-written or deep or any of that. Appreciate the style, and that's all that is necessary to enjoy the film and get a good scare. Expand
  75. EdwardW.
    Nov 10, 2006
    9
    Never even knew it was a game . . . blown away by the imagery, tone and numerous dark themes ringing true. The criticisms of the exposition in the storyline were understandable, but the rest of the movie more than makes up for it.
  76. SalvadorV.
    Oct 23, 2006
    8
    I don't know why people rate this movie very low. Silent Hill basically gave almost all its story away by the end, where there was an explanation going on. Either they didn
  77. SilentOne
    Oct 11, 2006
    7
    Silent Hill can certainly defy Mortal Kombat as the best VG adaptation but it is far from being the great cinematographic masterpiece it could have been. A lot of horror and psychological movies are superior and it is sad to see that films like Jacob's Ladder and Twelve Monkeys are more "Silent hillish" than Gans's flick. The main problem is, instead on focusing on a solid story and putting references here and there, Gans does the opposite. He tries to put as many references as possible and links the whole in a more or less ambiguous manner. I cannot say however that he does not know what Silent Hill is. However, I liked (not loved) this movie even if it is not going to mark a lot of minds and it will eventually be forgotten with time. [***SPOILERS***] For me the main positive thing is the absence of a Mary Sue, something that pissed me off a lot in Resident Evil and Tomb Raider. Of course there is Cybil but at least she got beaten up and expressed negative emotions (ie she does not go fighting like if she was doing her shopping and she does show stressful behavior) Gans said he got older since Le pacte des loups (which I found to be more mature). IMO, he is still a kid. He seems to have focused more on the sentence " I'm putting this because fans will love it" than on the making of a movie. Running 3/4 of the movie and resolving clues might be interesting in a VG. In a movie, we need a story and character development. Most of the critics agree on a point. Silent Hill has beautiful images and camera angles. I wouldn't be surprised if Dan Laustsen or Carol Spier got nominated for an award. However, if most of the critics say they don't understand the story, it is because the dialogue and the editing do not offer that much to allow the moviegoer to care enough for the characters. And a Silent Hill with an average story hurts. And it hurts a lot. Despite it all, 7/10. I can discuss this movie negatively for hours but there is that je ne sais quoi that made this movie entertaining to my eyes. If there is a 2-disc DVD coming up in 2007, I'd probably buy it. Expand
  78. CharmaineH.
    Oct 5, 2006
    3
    I was led to believe this was one of the best movies of the year when; when I watched it I was very let down.
  79. Mike
    Oct 1, 2006
    4
    The first 15 minutes of the movie is great! But then it goes down hill.
  80. MattC
    Sep 30, 2006
    2
    Great game. Bad movie
  81. GonzaloP.
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    Rate this movie is easy. The movie was made for ALL THE PEOPLE IN THE WORLD that played Silent Hill in the glorious Playstation. The first Silent Hill is just a master piece. If you played Silent hill 2, 3 or The Room, it's not the same... if you never played any game of silent hill, even worst... I saw this movie with a smile and tears in my eyes because it was everything that I imagined when I finished Silent Hill several years ago... ALL is just perfect; I read that some Critics and User reviews said that the movie has no reality that it's too fantastic... Those who said that didn't understand the idea of the movie, that it's just the same of the game. The story has to be twisted, unreal, and for those who said that "It's a bad horror movie"... you're wrong from the beginning... The best of silent hill is that is not a horror movie, it may appeared but it isn't, it's not a suspense film, it' may have some points but... it isn't, the best of silent hill it's that to "mark" this film in some genre, we need to install a new genre, because silent hill is unique... play the first video game then watch the movie again, This movie doesn't care critics of those who don't played the game, It's just a tribute for the game and those who enjoy it!!! Resident Evil film doesn Expand
  82. JohnB.
    Sep 19, 2006
    7
    The visual FXs were very good to great. There was always a sense of dread and rot. It felt more like a 'Marilyn Manson' video meets a 'Hellraiser' movie. There wasn't so much of the gore and slasher stuff as it was always more of a great sense of danger. I felt parts of the movie were weak and a little hard to follow at times, but overall the movie wasn't bad. I think they could have spend a little more time explaining the beginning and the ending. Expand
  83. HengF.
    Sep 10, 2006
    5
    The ending makes NO sense at all.
  84. kwyjiboj
    Sep 9, 2006
    2
    No, the critics haven't got it wrong. The Japan fetishist fan boys have got it wrong by ignoring the fact that the film is so bloody tedious just because it sticks to the videogame. Wow, woop ti do, Uwe Boll could have done better, and if he couldn't, he'd kick your ass in the ring.
  85. MrS.
    Sep 5, 2006
    10
    just look at the user reviews, for every 15 positive reviews there is 1 negative. and it looks like in my opinion that the critics got this one wrong as they do from time to time.
  86. Mobius
    Sep 5, 2006
    10
    just goes to show you how much critics know about movies. I have played the game and found this a very good adaptation of the game, considering that the movie is not following any of the previous game plots i feel that this story is a good addition to the Silent hill franchise. If you have played the game and enjoyed it then your gonna like the movie. I was expecting some tacky crap when i brought the DVD but ended up plesanlty surprised. Expand
  87. CodyK.
    Sep 4, 2006
    8
    I really liked this movie. However, I felt like I was playing a videogame
  88. GarodW.
    Sep 3, 2006
    1
    Horrible mess of a movie. It might have been a great video game, but it was one of the worst movies I've seen this year.
  89. JaymanB.
    Aug 31, 2006
    8
    First off, I can't beleive this movie has up to 432 votes(comments). Is this a record??? I was there first night in the theatres when Silent Hill was released. Big fan of the games, loved the trailer. I liked the movie up to the point of [***SPOILERS***] the cult scenes. Wasn't expecting that crap to end up in such a spooky movie. I'll buy a used copy of the DVD when avail....I just wish they could cut that crap out. Anyway...good spooky ending...and I hope they re-visit Silent Hill. Expand
  90. XerosA.
    Aug 24, 2006
    10
    Well, all i can really say is Christophe Gans actually made a wonderful adaptation. The fact that almost no CGI effects were used is doubly impressive. Having played Silent Hill 2,3 and 4 I really appreciated how close to the games the film was (considering KONAMI wouldn't let Mr.Gans use the story from the games). Unlike most horror films the setting wasn't piled to the rafters with weapons for the characters to run around bashing monsters with (which is very refreshing). Also Silent Hill did not rely on "cheap" scares such as having scary faces pop up screeching like banshees. The intereaction between characters seemed natural and very true to life (or as close as it could be considering the situation) which made it easy, nay enjoyable to watch (unlike so many horror films today). It was good to hear and see the music and creatures from the games, they made the whole experience that much more. And finally it wasn't too long like a lot of movies these days (I'm talking to you Peter Jackson!) ending at two hours and five minutes, just as there was no more plot to be divulged and no more sinners to be clensed. Total viewings so far: 3 Total viewings in the future: endless. Expand
  91. SephyX
    Aug 23, 2006
    8
    First off I've only played one of the Silent Hill games, that being #2 which has no relavence to the main Silent Hill storyline what so ever. I watched Silent Hill for the first time yesterday on DVD and I perfectly understood the storyline (I mean c'mon they take 10 minutes out of the movie to literally tell you what happened!), so anybody who tells you that the story makes no sense probably think that 'Bio Dome' or 'Resident Evil' have true depth to it. This movie sets a nice atomosphere and uses suprisingly little CGI in its monster and set designs, only using CGI for visual touch ups (like it should be used for). The storyline and acting was good, a few parts being the exception. [***SPOILERS***] The very ending of the movie is debateable though, it seems kind of like a cop-out ending. Overall though Silent Hill is the best game-to-movie adaptation that has come out yet. It was a good condensed version of the Silent Hill storyline and kept very true to the games with is look, music, and general feel. Expand
  92. NicoleV.
    Aug 23, 2006
    10
    I played Silent Hill 2-4 and loved the game. The previews didn't look all that spectacular, so i nwaied until video. After watching it, the movie exceeded my expewctations and I was very pleased with the way they turned the game into a movie. I don't know how some who claim to have played the game didn't think it was true to the story; they must have skipped through the cut scenes. It wasn't *exactly* like the story-line, but then there were 4 different storylines- a different one for each game. However, the game is a game, with just a bit of story-line to keep the game interesting. In a movie, story-lines *should* become the forefront, and that is what the creators did, so they added a bit more background to make more of a story. If you actually listened to what was being said and took in the visuals, you would understand the story-line. I had no problem. Some people might have missed that janitor in the bathroom... Its kind of important. Expand
  93. AnshulJ.
    Aug 18, 2006
    10
    excellent atmosphere / set design.. deserves a 10 for that alone.. some great imagery.. an ending which leaves the movie open to interpretations which is not a bad thing at all.. head over to imdb for some discussion on the ending.. if you like the game you will most likely end up liking this movie.. best videogame to movie adaptation to date.. no question.
  94. JoséS.
    Jul 30, 2006
    10
    best movie ever.
  95. VolkerM.
    Jul 2, 2006
    1
    I don't know the game - I didn't even know that there was one. Hence, I just wanted to see a good movie nothing else. And what a disappointment it was. A lousy story in which nothing made any sense whatsoever. The acting wasn't that bad after all but didn't help the fact that the whole thing was a total waste of time.
  96. DmitriyP.
    Jun 27, 2006
    10
    best one horror game movie.
  97. KurtS.
    Jun 26, 2006
    0
    I've played and highly enjoyed the Silent Hill games (2 to 4). I've read de negative reviews beforehand. So I was prepared for another bad film adaption of a great game franchise. But this film is so incredible bad i can't come up with suitable metaphors to describe how bad it is. First of all this movie lacks atmosphere and horror - despite being a horror film. There were just two real awesome horror scenes (one in the middle and one near the end). [***SPOILERS***] Secondly where were the disturbing and eeri monsters that are part of Silent Hill ? We just get to see Pyramid Head 3 times some Bobble Head Nurses and some guy with wires thru his scrotum. There were no Double Heads, no Patient Demons, no etc. Then the protagonist didn't even bother to fight some of the monsters. Instead it was the typical american teen horror flic of a chick screaming and running. Even if we leave out the Silent Hill context and just see this as a generic horror movie it still sucks. I mean letting the characters literally explain the plot to the audience... wow this sure shows how good your storyboard is. And no film that goes 2 hours should feel like 4 hours. I could go on and on.... but just let me say this: This movie is just "Silent Crap" with the Soundtrack of the Silent Hill 2/3 games. This is not a Silent Hill film nor a horror fil at all. Expand
  98. PaulO.
    Jun 23, 2006
    7
    I liked this movie. Maybe not one you should shell out $9.00 for at the theater, but maybe you have a discount theater? or go rent it when it comes out. The story was interesting enough. I tried not to think too much though. The best parts of the movie was when darkness came over the town and all the demons appeared. Great visuals and CG. One woman's death was great to watch (i know it sounds sick but you'll know what i mean if you've seen it). I didn't like the ending but I can't really discuss that here. Oh yeah, also, I haven't played any of the games so I can't compare them. My review is unbiased. So go watch it if you like semi-horror dramas. There's nothing that scary, just really creepy and suspenseful. Expand
  99. RandellP.
    Jun 21, 2006
    7
    A case of bias amongst critics, it seems. It once again becomes rather painfully obvious that critics are sheep. This movie certainly isn't perfect, but it worth more then a 3.0. Let me start by stating that the acting and the dialogue in this movie is bad. They really should have put some more work into that. For me, it was the visuals and the story that made Silent Hill a rather interesting movie. I haven't played the first Silent Hill game but I had no problem understanding the story, so either a lot of the critics are mentally challenged or I posses some supernatural story-understanding ability. I don't understand why some people would call the story 'dumb'. Sure, it's not really Oscar material but the story has a more depth then most horrormovies that I've seen in the pas few years. The movie itself looks great. I've seem some flashes of the SIlent Hill games and the movie really reminded me of them. It certainly has its moments of macabre and surrealistic beauty, although they were a bit few and far inbetween for my tastes. Overall an entertaining and interesting movie, that tries to be different from your average teenage slasher flick. Give it a chance. Expand
  100. ChristopherA.
    Jun 8, 2006
    7
    The big advantage the games have over this movie is their interactivity - which is exactly the element heightening the suspense. The movie feels like a very extended cut scene but a pretty one at it. The photography is awesome and very much remniscant of how all games look - eerie. The movie would probably have been better in its original state - without any male leads - focusing on the mindstate that is Silent Hill instead of switching back and forth between "real" and "unreal". Very decent videogame adaption though that doesn't deserve as much negative criticism as it has been receiving. Expand
Metascore

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 20 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 20
  2. Negative: 10 out of 20
  1. Witless, soulless and joyless, it displays its video game origins throughout.
  2. Reviewed by: James Dyer
    60
    A step in the right direction for console-to-screen transitions and a twisted masterpiece of set design. Ultimately, though, it's a little too much like watching someone else play the game.
  3. 38
    Although I did not understand the story, I would have appreciated a great deal less explanation. All through the movie, characters are pausing in order to offer arcane back-stories and historical perspectives and metaphysical insights and occult orientations. They talk and talk and somehow their words do not light up any synapses in my brain.