Night of the Ghouls

Night of the Ghouls is a classic 1959 horror film directed by the legendary Edward D. Wood Jr., whom many remember for his other cult classic, Plan 9 from Outer Space. It stars Kenne Duncan, Duke Moore and renowned professional wrestler turned actor, Tor Johnson.

The movie begins with a brief history about a supposed previous incident that occurred at a mysterious mansion that harbored a nefarious doctor with a knack for defrauding wealthy patrons by claiming he has an ability to communicate with the dead, a plot element which sets the stage for the Halloween-themed horror that is to follow. In exploring this trope, we are introduced to the figures of Dr. Acula, decorated in full Dracula gear, played by Kenne Duncan, who is the eerie medium and central figure of the story, and his henchman Lobo, played with a touch of macabre innocence by the hulking Tor Johnson.

Set in a decrepit mansion, known as the Spook House on Willows Lake, Dr. Acula, quite fittingly gets his name because he's a pseudo-vampire; he feeds not on people's blood, but on their money, nourishing his vices as he cons his gullible clients who very much want to believe in his spiritual manifestations. He makes a living by luring unsuspecting individuals into paying exorbitant amounts for a chance to interact with their lost ones in the great beyond, offering grand seances with ghosts. The ghosts themselves are quite a colorful bunch, providing lots of off-beat chills and thrills for the audience.

While the living, breathing denizens of the film can be easy game for Dr. Acula’s scam, the dead are not so easily conned. Unbeknownst to him, their ethereal unrest stirs, leading to an interesting twist that stirs the pot of the horror stew. Meanwhile, the audience is also introduced to the gutsy and hard-boiled detective, played by Duke Moore, who becomes increasingly suspicious of the puzzling happenings at the haunted mansion. His character is reminiscent of those seen in 1950s film noir, playing the role of the cynical yet determined investigator.

The movie tackles the fascinating subject of spirituality and people's faith in the supernatural, giving a tongue-in-cheek commentary about those who exploit the belief in the paranormal for their own gain. This is all done in a uniquely campy style, one of the many things that make this director's body of work so unique and enjoyable. It's the marriage of horror and comedy, a mix that makes Edward D. Wood Jr's productions distinctive and memorable, which Night of the Ghouls showcases in abundance.

There's something of a charm to the 1950 cinematic special effects, which hold a vintage allure. The film is awash in a palette of black-and-white, lending it the stark aesthetics and shadows often utilised in mid-century film making. Night of the Ghouls has an atmosphere of cold spookiness, enhanced by seemingly rudimentary, yet effective special effects.

Something else that is noteworthy about this film is the fact that it actually didn't see a proper release until over 20 years after it was filmed. Edward D. Wood Jr. left the film in a lab due to unpaid bills and it remained there until finally being discovered and released in the 1980s. This simple fact only enhances the mystique and cult-like charm of this particular film.

Overall, Night of the Ghouls is a delightful, unusual spin on classic American horror themes, overlaid with a somewhat satirical perspective on those who exploit the belief in the afterlife. Despite the simplistic props and low budget, it overflows with an undeniable charm and unintended humor, staying true to the Edward D. Wood Jr. tradition. If you're looking for an intriguing vintage horror film, Night of the Ghouls is certainly a cinematic experience to embark on.