Friday, October 7, 2016

Halloween playlist #8 - House Of Usher [1960]

One of several Corman/Price/Poe adaptations, and quite possibly in the top 2-3 most effective.

There's a very Hammer-esque atmosphere to this film that I really enjoyed, most relying on the gothic set design and moody, emotive performances to drive the story along. Vincent Price is always great, and the whole set-up is so mysterious and eerie, it's impossible not be at least slightly intrigued by the goings-on in the history of the characters in the movie. There are so many things left unsaid, it makes for a fun puzzle to try to put together, as well as an interesting character study. Roger Corman generally makes cheesier movies, but this one (along with The Pit And The Pendulum and Masque Of The Red Death) show that the guy knows how to direct a more serious film if he wants to. In fact, I would recommend both of those movies as well, if you're in the mood for some classic '60s macabre horror -- or put on The Raven if you're in the mood for a laugh.

8/10

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