Good Against Evil

Good Against Evil is an intriguing supernatural thriller that delves into the classic struggle between light and darkness, between good and evil. It originally aired as a television movie on ABC Network in May of 1977 and was directed by Paul Wendkos, who is known for his exceptional TV movie creations.

The film introduces us to the leading characters in a typical yet captivating setup. Richard Rambo, famously known for his roles in 'Gunsmoke' and 'Dallas', stars as the vibrant and charming man-about-town journalist, Andy Stuart. He becomes entangled in a spellbinding series of events when he meets the delightful Jessica Gordon, portrayed by the beautiful Elyssa Davalos who has films like 'MacArthur' and 'Hot Pursuit' under her belt. What begins as a seemingly ordinary romance soon takes a turn into the mystical when unexpected and inexplicable events begin to occur.

Through these endeavors, they cross paths with Richard Lynch, who plays the enigmatic Mr. Rimmin, whose air of menace and cryptic demeanor serve to ramp up the suspense, keeping viewers on their toes. Lynch's portrayal is expertly layered, creating a compelling antagonist. His complex character catapults the story into a swirling maelstrom of suspense and dark energy. Jessica is unveiled to be more than just an ordinary woman and is shown to be the unsuspecting pivot around which the mystery unravels.

Presented as a captivating thriller, it is steeped in the supernatural genre while managing not to sacrifice the human elements of romance, ambition, deceit, and allegiance. Wendkos intelligently incorporates elements of horror that include an exorcist battling demonic entities, giving audiences a spine-chilling experience as they journey through the narrative.

The screenwriter, Jimmy Sangster, a British veteran of Hammer Horror films, incorporates a blend of horror and thriller plot elements. This mixture creates a chilling atmosphere that aligns with the overall theme of the movie. Audiences get to experience the edge-of-the-seat anticipation as they watch the events unfold leading the protagonists deeper into the world of the supernatural.

Good Against Evil is not just a supernatural thriller but is also rich in stunning visuals. Cinematographer, Jack Woolf, does a stellar job in ensuring that the aesthetic captures the dramatic essence of the storyline. From pristine daylight scenes to eerily lit night sequences, the cinematography plays a pivotal role in driving the narrative forward and in establishing the mood and the tone of the film. The visuals are enchanting and disturbing in equal measure, pulling viewers into the enigmatic world the characters inhabit.

The score, composed by George Duning, intertwines seamlessly with the narrative, accentuating the suspense and heightening the drama. The haunting pieces complement the tension-filled moments in the film, further immersing viewers into this painstakingly crafted world. The sound design is thoughtfully curated and serves as a crucial element in maintaining the suspenseful and ominous ambiance of the film.

Another important foundational pillar to mention is the superb production design by Paul Sylos. His work adds substance to the setting and supports the heavy, dark ambiance that encapsulates the film.

Moreover, the performances are commendable, with the cast delivering sincere and engaging portrayals that make their characters believable. Rambo and Davalos have an undeniable on-screen chemistry that makes their romance feel organic and real, despite the supernatural undertones. Meanwhile, Lynch's chilling performance adds an immense weight to the antagonist, keeping viewers constantly engaged.

Good Against Evil is a movie that perfectly demonstrates that despite being a telemovie from the late '70s, it still manages to captivate its audiences with deep-rooted themes, unforgettable characters and tightly woven suspense. It showcases a gripping narrative that delves into the realms of the supernatural while exploring the underlying human trajectories of love, fear and the enduring battle between light and darkness. It is an engrossing journey of suspense, fraught with chilling elements, grounded by an ancient struggle between Good and Evil. Whether you're a fan of thrilling supernatural dramas or a simple romantic at heart, this classic relic of the 70s filmography is certainly worth a watch.