Night 11: ‘House on Haunted Hill’ (1959)

After watching a 70’s horror film, going back to the odd, atmospheric horror of the 50’s feels like a much-needed treat.

The premise is interesting and simple: 5 people are invited to join the mysterious Frederick Loren (Vincent Price) at his home, where he’ll be celebrating a party. The promise? They will earn a lot of money if they can stay in the house until the morning, no matter what happens. The catch? The mansion is supposedly haunted.

It sounds like a story we can find in any horror anthology or haunted house movie. However, in spite of its simplicity, ‘House…’ actually succeeds in creating a genuinely scary atmosphere. Some haunting images –like the ‘ghost’-lady or the severed head in the suitcase- are also quite terrifying.

The movie also benefits from the charming and terrifying presence of Vincent Price, who steals every scene he is in. As the mysterious benefactor and jaded husband, there is an unsettling aura which permeates his every move. He is fascinating, but you can inevitably sense that there is something dark and ominous under the charming façade he presents.

Although it’s quite a fun film to watch on a Halloween night, the conventionality of ‘House…’ makes it a little too predictable, as the 2nd twist can be seen coming from miles away. Also, the elaborate ruse is a little too overdone to feel even slightly believable.

Still, this is a fun palate cleanser after the baffling 70’s craziness of ‘Phantasm’. A fun watch for those of us who enjoy a good mystery and some psychological horror!

Grade: 7/10. Sign us up for a visit!

Scare Factor: some frightening scenes.

Gore/violence: nothing too graphic.

Nudity/sexual situations: none.

Next: ‘The Hills Have Eyes’ (1977)