Haunted House Classics

It's time for another journey into fear. When it comes to horror films, you know that there are many different kinds. Among the subjects explored; vampires, werewolves, zombies, slasher killers etc... None, in my opinion are more enjoyable than "the haunted house" theme. There are a few that are critically acclaimed and have thus become classics. The Innocents (1962), The Haunting (1963), House on Haunted Hill (1958), and The Uninvited (1944) come to mind. In my opinion, one film in particular stands out as the benchmark of all haunted house movies. I am referring to a 1980 Candian film called The Changeling, starring George C. Scott and his wife Trish Van Devere. It also features screen legend Melvyn Douglas in a pivotal role. If you have not seen this dandy of a hairaiser do yourself a favor and try to rent it, or see if it is on cable. There are some of the most heart stopping scenes ever filmed of this sort! I won't spoil the fun, but it centers around college music teacher (Scott) who rents an old historical mansion in Seattle, Washington after the tragic death of his wife and daughter. What makes this film different from the others I mentioned earlier in this blog, is while the other films featured groups of people trapped in a haunted house, Scott lives in this house by himself, which makes it all the more creepier. Noises, voices, and seances follow! I don't want to give the story away, so see it for yourself, I am sure that you will not be disappointed. It is a high caliber film with a great cast, ingenious script, and superior production values. After nearly thirty years it still can induce goosebumps.

Another notable favorite is The Legend of Hell House based on the novel Hell House written by Richard Matheson. Realeased in 1973, it features Roddy McDowall, Clive Revell, Pamela Franklin, and Gayle Hunnicutt. This enjoyable spookfest centers around the paranormal investigation of the infamous Hell House outside of London. Lots of fog, black cats, and bumps in the night. I highly recommend it. Happy Haunting and Have a Bloody Good Day!!!!