US title – Scream of Fear

Movie, 1961

Crackling, atmospheric suspense horror thriller, in which a load of tropes are aired – the spooky house, the creepy matriarch, the imperiled heroine – and a storming film delivered. This is unsophisticated, well-plotted fare, without a trace of gore, but some suitably jolting moments. At times, the lighting, the angles, the photography and claustrophobia build a really terrific atmosphere, which more than compensates for creaking plot points and the odd piece of cardboard acting. Well worth seeking out for a night time comfort watch.