House on Haunted Hill Reviews

Okay, I do think that Vincent Price has done better overall movies(Theater of Blood, Abominable Dr Phibes and Witchfinder General). But I cannot deny that as always, coming from someone who was supreme in this film genre at this particular time, he is brilliant with a charismatic presence and great deadpan delivery that will give you chills and excitement at the same time. He is well supported by Carol Ohmart, Alan Marshal, Richard Long and especially Elisha Cook Jnr, who plays the paranoid drunk with real exuberance. There are many other joys to House on Haunted Hill than the cast. I for one love the Gothic production values, as well as the suitably creepy atmosphere, haunting music and witty script that is in perfect keeping with the tone of the horror movies of the time. The story apart from the short length and one or two meandering subplots is very clever with some memorable moments such as decapitated heads, witches and acid vats as well as a fun twist. All in all, spooky slick fun with a great atmosphere and performance from a genre icon. 8/10 Bethany Cox