There's a lot to like here. A lot. This film is closer to a 7 than a 5. Unfortunately, select production elements and the close of the film falter and bring the overall rating down.

If only this film had more polish. Additional rewrites (content is king!) and a higher budget allowing for more time and better/more/any crew/talent in select departments could've produced a classic. However, this is what we have - and it's good. It's just the type of special good that it makes you want for more.

Aside: I've always thought Wes Craven was talented and had a lot more in him, but was never able to cross whatever personal lines held him back. While I certainly take issue with corporate interference, I don't think it's all the studios, as there are many wonderful projects out there made with less. Sadly, now we'll never know. As a side note, based on interviews I've seen, it also seems like he was just a good human, which goes a long way.