Mortuary

Mortuary is a spine-chilling horror film released in 1983 that intricately weaves an eerie tale of murder, sinister secrets, and a family's journey into the heart of lurking terror. This classic movie features memorable performances by a renowned ensemble cast, led by Mary Beth McDonough and Bill Paxton, supported by Christopher George, David Wallace, Lynda Day George, and a host of others.

The film unfolds with Mary Beth McDonough, known for her role in "The Waltons," portraying Christie Parson, a young woman traumatized by the tragic and inexplicable death of her father. Christie starts experiencing terrifying nightmares and visions, believing them to be clues to the mystery shrouding her father's demise.

Bill Paxton infuses this creepy chronicle with his engaging portrayal of Paul Andrews, an eccentric employee working at the local mortuary. The mortuary and its enigmatic details become an integral part of the plot, setting the stage for a series of bone-chilling events and hair-raising revelations. As events spiral, the mortuary seems less a place for the dead and more a hub for alarming activities that blur the line between the natural and the supernatural.

Christopher George and Lynda Day George personify the role of the mortuary-owning family, the Dobbs. The couple's strange behavior and past tragedies contribute to the overall suspense, and their secretive demeanor hints at an underlying dread tied to the morbid establishment they run.

David Wallace captures the spirit of Greg Stevens, Christie's boyfriend, who, worried about her relentless nightmares, commits himself to decipher the enigma surrounding her father's death. His tireless quest for the truth brings him face to face with the mortuary's daunting mysteries.

The interplay between the characters and their constant tryst with terror forms the backbone of the film. Their shared quest to unravel the mysteries further entangles them in a web of dark secrets that looms ominously over their lives.

Every supporting character in Mortuary, including work from Bill Conklin, Curt Ayers, Donna Garrett, Danny Rogers, Greg Kaye, Denis Mandel, Alvy Moore, Marlene Schmidt, Beth Scheffell, among others, adds depth to the narrative. Their performances adeptly bolster the burgeoning tension and unsettling atmosphere in the film.

Mortuary builds up its terror gradually, combining a well-paced narrative with atmospheric cinematography to keep viewers at the edge of their seats. The movie takes advantage of the secluded, creepy mortuary setting, creating an unsettling atmosphere that sends shivers down the spine. The foreboding building and its eerie surroundings help set the tone for an intense horror experience.

Director Howard Avedis skillfully uses a mix of horror and thriller elements to orchestrate a cinematic symphony of suspense and fear, appealing to both genre enthusiasts and general viewers. The screenplay keeps audiences guessing with its mix of murder, mystery, and supernatural elements. It emphasizes emotions, fear, and tension rather than relying solely on shock value, making it much more than just a typical horror film.

The film features a haunting score that effectively underscores the action, punctuating each moment of terror with a defining note. The result is an unfathomable mood that seeps into every frame, creating a chilling cinematic experience that lasts long after the credits roll.

Despite the macabre subject matter, Mortuary also showcases the power of love, friendship, and determination. The film also touches on the theme of overcoming fear as the characters delve into the terrifying unknown in their quests for truth.

In summary, Mortuary is an involving suspenseful horror film that delivers a shiver-inducing tale of a family’s nightmarish journey into the chilling alleys of a local mortuary. It’s a captivating examination of how secrets can lead to deadly consequences, and an unforgettable statement about confronting the face of fear. The mastery of its cast and the refined approach to storytelling makes Mortuary an enduring addition to the list of '80s horror classics.