Restricted 'Nightmare on Elm Street' clip delivers on terror

Posted Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 4:45 PM Central

by John Couture

With the original Nightmare on Elm Street series, the main character and tone quickly shifted away from horror and into the realm of the absurd. It's not that they went all the way into the spoof genre, but it was the '80s, I remember growing up laughing more at each stupid sequel than being terrified.

So, there's a real concern that this week's reboot of the franchise might quickly sway in that direction despite the overwhelming dark tone of the trailers. Well, if there's any question which way this movie is going to go, then MySpace provides the answer in their exclusive, age-restricted clip (embedded below).

While the need for an age gate on this clip can be debated, what is clear is that there will be very few laughs in this movie. The tone is very dark and foreboding and some of the classic suspense-driving elements return, including the little kids playing jump rope while chanting "Freddy's Warning."

"1-2, Freddy's coming for you..." I think you'll agree that this reboot has a real chance at striking a chord with audiences. If not, tell us what you don't like about the new movie. A Nightmare on Elm Street debuts in theaters this Friday.