The Omen franchise has long been a cornerstone of horror cinema, weaving tales of demonic possession, religious prophecy, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Across six films, audiences have been both terrified and enthralled by the saga of Damien Thorn, the Antichrist, and the unsuspecting souls who cross his path.
Last weekend, The First Omen opened in theaters. While it did not receive the title of Holy Box Office King last week, the film did receive the best reviews since the 1976 Richard Donner horror classic. With 135 reviews it stands at 79% on Rotten Tomatoes.
In this comprehensive ranking, we delve into the depths of The Omen series, from its humble beginnings to its most recent incarnations. From satanic horrors to unholy revelations, each film offers its own unique take on the age-old struggle between darkness and light.
Join us as we journey through the darkness and discover which Omen films rise to the top as true masterpieces of horror, and which fall by the wayside as forgettable entries in the franchise. Prepare to confront your deepest fears and unearth the secrets of the Omen series, if you dare.
“It’s all for you, Horror Film Buffs!”
6. Omen IV: The Awakening (1991)
While Omen IV: The Awakening may provide some unintentional laughs, it falls flat in terms of storytelling and scares. Set after Damien’s demise, the film introduces a new Antichrist in the form of a young girl named Delia. However, the campy execution and lackluster plot make it a forgettable entry in the franchise. 17% on Rotten Tomatoes.
5. The Omen (2006)
John Moore’s almost shot-for-shot remake of the original Omen offers little in terms of innovation, sticking closely to the source material without adding anything substantial. While the film boasts a talented cast, including Liev Schreiber and Julia Stiles, it fails to capture the suspense and terror of the original, ultimately feeling like a watered-down rehash. 26% on Rotten Tomatoes
4. Damien: Omen II (1978)
Don Taylor’s sequel to the original follows Damien Thorn as he grows into adolescence and embraces his destiny as the Antichrist. While the film has its moments of intrigue, particularly in exploring Damien’s internal struggle, it lacks the suspense and tension of its predecessor. Nevertheless, it remains a solid entry in the series. 48% on Rotten Tomatoes.
REELated:
3. The Final Conflict (1981)
In The Final Conflict, Sam Neill delivers a charismatic performance as Damien Thorn, now a powerful businessman and ambassador working to bring about the end of days. While the film leans heavily into religious horror tropes, it does so with a sense of grandeur and spectacle that sets it apart from its predecessors. Despite some campy moments, it’s an entertaining watch for fans of the series. 29% on Rotten Tomatoes.
2. The First Omen (2024)
Arkasha Stevenson’s prequel to the original Omen breathes new life into the franchise with its atmospheric cinematography and unsettling tone. Set before Damien’s birth, the film explores the dark secrets of the church and introduces a compelling new protagonist in Margaret. With its shocking twists and intense horror, The First Omen proves to be a worthy addition to the series.
1. The Omen (1976)
Richard Donner’s seminal classic remains the undisputed king of The Omen franchise, setting the standard for religious horror films for decades to come. With its iconic performances, eerie atmosphere, and unforgettable score, The Omen continues to haunt audiences with its tale of the Antichrist and the unwitting family caught in his grasp. A true masterpiece of the genre, it’s a must-watch for horror aficionados. 85% on Rotten Tomatoes.
While The Omen franchise may have had its ups and downs over the years, it has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of horror cinema. From its chilling origins to its shocking revelations, the series continues to captivate audiences with its tales of Satanic terror and divine intervention.
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The Geek is a working screenwriter, director and screenwriting instructor.
