Set in a rural mansion in Vermont in 1906, this precursor to the modern slasher movie follows a mute woman stalked by a serial killer slaying women with disabilities. Lauded for its stark black-and-white cinematography and atmosphere, it really stands the test of time—I think remains a creepy, oppressive film today. Dorothy McGuire, George Brent, and Ethel Barrymore (who earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of the bitchy, bedridden matron of the house), star. Let's discuss this Gothic masterpiece directed by Robert Siodmak.
Thank OP. I'm in the mood for a spooky classic. Adding to my queue.
| by Anonymous | reply 1 | April 4, 2023 4:26 AM |
It looks especially theatrical, OP. Apparently, it's been done for radio, and television several times. "The Spiral Staircase" looks like it could be fantastic on stage.
| by Anonymous | reply 2 | April 4, 2023 4:43 AM |
R2 it would make a good stage play. It is based on the novel "Some Must Watch"—I've never read it, but should.
| by Anonymous | reply 3 | April 5, 2023 2:50 AM |
This movie gave me nightmares when I was a kid
| by Anonymous | reply 4 | April 5, 2023 3:29 AM |
It's a great film. Noir at it's finest.
| by Anonymous | reply 5 | April 5, 2023 3:40 AM |
R5 agreed, it's a perfect collision of noir and cold-blooded horror. The "chairoscuro" photography in it is stunning. Reminds me of some of the Val Lewton-produced horror films (like "The Seventh Victim" or "Cat People"), but even glossier.
| by Anonymous | reply 6 | April 5, 2023 3:50 AM |
Great film, I love Robert Siodmak
| by Anonymous | reply 7 | April 5, 2023 3:57 AM |
R8 I didn't even realize these were released the same year. Both excellent films.
| by Anonymous | reply 9 | April 5, 2023 4:15 AM |