The Haunting (1963)

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The Haunting is a 1963 psychological horror film directed by Robert Wise. Dr. John Markway (Richard Johnson) has spent years investigating the supposedly haunted Hill House. He conducts a psychological study to determine whether or not the house truly is haunted. The patients are Theo (Claire Bloom), Nell (Julie Harris), and Luke (Russ Tamblyn). This movie is nothing short of a horror masterpiece. There’s a slow burn style to this movie that really lets the atmosphere sink in. This is really helped by the look of the house. The house itself feels like a living, breathing character. At once, it can feel both frightening and enchating. It actually looks more and more sinister as the movie goes on, changing and evolving. The movie begins with the backstory of the house narrated by Dr. Markway, telling us of the mysterious deaths that occurred within the perimeter of the house. Mixed in between these frightening, haunting moments, we are given small character moments to progress these people forward. They feel real. Theo is a woman with psychic abilities. She lives alone, and is unmarried. The movie subtly hints at the possibility that Theo might be lesbian, but it’s never outright said. The film delves into Nell’s mind, showing her start to go crazy. What we’re never told is whether or not the house is what’s driving her crazy. We do get her internal thoughts. If anything, they provide a look into her mind. Harris proves to be the best performer. She truly captures every aspect of the character. She is a skeptic of the supernatural, a woman going insane, falling in love with the house. Wise’s direction should also be commended. He puts every bit of atmosphere and mood into the movie as he possibly can. The shadows of the house add to the movie’s tension. Overall, The Haunting proves to be an exceptional ghost story with incredible atmosphere, phenomenal direction, and amazing acting.

10 / 10