Encounter with the Unknown

Encounter with the Unknown is a haunting and suspense-filled anthology film from 1972 guided by the compelling voice-over narration of Rod Serling. This eerie movie is an amalgamation of adaptations from urban legends and folklore, each story intriguing and terrifying in its own unique way. The film spins its narrative web from three different but no less chilling tales that whisk its audience off into an intriguing abyss laced with mystery and terror, also managing to immerse viewers into a world filled with inexplicably odd phenomena that can make even the bravest viewer's blood curdle.

Directed by Harry Thomason, the movie wastes no time in setting up its uncanny atmosphere as it gives a dramatic introduction to the stories to come. In a true testament to the power of narrative storytelling, Encounter with the Unknown uses vivid verbal description complimented by striking visual imagery, thus creating an atmosphere of suspense that truly immerses one into the hallowed halls of the unknown.

The brilliant Rod Serling, script writer of many classic Twilight Zone episodes, dramatically narrates each different story. His authentic and chilling voice lends a sinister aspect to the film that enhances the tension and suspense, making the audience beg for more.

The first tale, featuring actors Robert Ginnaven and Gary Brockette, tells the story of one boy’s dying curse over his three peers who played a part in a grievous childhood accident. As the young men begin to meet horrifying ends, as per the so-called curse, the dread begins to mount, leaving the viewer to wonder whether it is the curse or sheer coincidence that haunts them. Serling’s narration and compelling storytelling, intercut with atmospheric directorial choices, keeps the viewer engaged, pondering the mystery laced within each plot twist and turn.

The second macabre tale revolves around a man who, consumed with grief over the death of his son, is driven to make a deal with an ancient witch in order to bring his deceased son back to life. Dark, mysterious, and filled with ominous implications, this story brilliantly weaves a sense of dread alongside heart-wrenching grief, maintaining a haunting tone throughout.

The final segment takes an even darker turn, involving a mysterious pit that possesses the strange ability to hypnotize and draw people towards it. The enigmatic power of this pit, coupled with the human curiosity, drives this story to a terrifying and suspenseful climax. Conjuring a sense of unsettlement on its audience, the filmmakers skillfully lure viewers into a deep pit of supernatural terror with this concluding tale.

Aside from the disquieting narratives, Encounter with the Unknown is distinguished by its innovative cinematography. Utilizing a range of techniques, including experimental camera work and dark, moody lighting, the film does not just tell terrifying tales, it paints a bleak, eerie canvas that visually communicates the terror inspiring these stories. This atmospheric quality, when paired with Serling's narration, generates a sense of palpable dread and tension as stories unfold vividly, leaving audiences both terrified and fascinated.

In the end, Encounter with the Unknown remains a haunting relic of bygone era horror. With stunning performances by actors like Robert Ginnaven and Gary Brockette, and Rod Serling serving as a thorough guide through the mysterious realm, this film seamlessly combines direction, narration, sound, and compelling storytelling that keeps its audience on edge.

A true gem in the pantheon of anthology horror films, Encounter with the Unknown consistently breathes life into the urban legends and folklore it showcases, delivering both chills and thrills to its unsuspecting audience. For fans of horror, suspense, and things that go bump in the night, this film is a must-see masterpiece of eerie storytelling.