This is a noteworthy anthology, since it may be the oldest one I've seen. It's from 1945, it's a British production, and it's simultaneously clever, and surprisingly dull.
The problem is that the stories are either far too predictable, or in one case, it doesn't match the tone of the rest of the movie.
First, there's a "room for one more" story. Not much to it, and it has some problems - like nowhere near enough tension built.
Second, there's a Christmas Party story, which involves someone meeting a ghost, then finding out.
Third is a Haunted Mirror, which is interesting. It's not quite what I expected, but it's a pretty normal "possessed item turns owner into a reflection of the original owner."
Fourth, the Golfing Story. This is really, really weird. It builds well enough, two golfers interested in the same girl, have their game to settle who gets her… but the tone shifts into a comedy, which seems very out of place.
Fifth, a Ventriloquist's Dummy story. Almost exactly what you'd expect.
These stories are tired and predictable now (for the most part). Some of these seem almost like stories for children. But I wonder if this set the mold for these stories. There's a good chance that these were much more effective when they were first shown. Many of these stories have been retold as Twilight Zone episodes.
The one spot where this movie shines is with a circular framing device. Variations of this have been used in other anthology movies, but this one actually comes full circle. It's a pleasing surprise.
The writing hasn't aged well. Almost all of the conversation seems too witty.
No comments:
Post a Comment