Strangers in 7A

Strangers in 7A is a 1972 American thriller film, directed by Paul Wendkos. This suspenseful movie offers an engaging viewing experience with Andy Griffith dynamically starring in a role that stands in stark contrast to his homely “Andy Taylor” from The Andy Griffith Show. Alongside a remarkable cast featuring Ida Lupino as the wavering wife, and Michael Brandon as the sociopathic criminal, the movie explores themes of morality, fear, and deception.

Set largely in an apartment block in New York City, the apartment 7A of the title becomes a studio of terror as the film follows the truly unsuspecting Artie Sawyer (Andy Griffith). Artie is your ordinary working-class man, who lives a fairly mundane life as the guard of an aging apartment complex. Dedicating his life to his work, Artie isn't particularly keen on outside interference. However, his predictable life takes a disturbing turn as he rents out apartment 7A to mysterious strangers.

These newcomers are far from ordinary tenants, as they form an eccentric group of unsavory characters led by the slick con artist, Vincent (Michael Brandon). Although Artie is initially oblivious to their nefarious intents, he slowly realizes that they've rented the apartment not for living but for use as a crime base. Their plan is to rob a bank vault which is conveniently located across the street from the apartment. It’s a high-stakes game and the apartment dwellers are suddenly right at the center of it.

Concurrent to this plot is the depiction of Artie’s troubled domestic life. His emotional exchanges with his tormented wife, Irene (Ida Lupino), who is on the brink of a nervous breakdown, provides a deep and evocative context to his character. Her haunting performance paints the picture of domestic strife which complements Griffith’s character. As the movie deepens, the duality in Artie's life, between the terrifying criminal plot unfolding beneath his nose and his desperately struggling marriage, becomes a captivating fulcrum of tension.

The film embodies a creeping anxiety that gradually creeps into the viewer as Griffith, a beloved father-figure from a hit sitcom turns into a character who's luck seems to be running out before catastrophe strikes But rather than resorting to routine thriller elements, the novel aspect of Strangers in 7A lies in how it intricately weaves a compelling, albeit sinister, narrative, juxtaposing scenes of domestic despair with escalating suspense.

Director Paul Wendkos, who had garnered a reputation for his work in television thrillers, shows immense skill in creating an atmosphere of palpable tension. His storytelling method uses innovative camera techniques to make the most of the claustrophobic apartment setting, amplifying the feeling of impending doom. The suspense builds and along the film, changing the tone from an everyday apartment story to an intensive criminal plot.

Beyond the horrors of the narrative, the principal strength of Strangers in 7A is the quality of its performances. While Griffith is mesmerizing in this unusual role which contrasts from his traditional portrayals, Brandon also stands out as the cunning criminal mastermind. Moreover, Lupino is remarkable in her emotionally strained role, perfectly capturing the essence of a wife unraveling due to her loneliness and despair.

Strangers in 7A works as a definitive 70s thriller that tests the resolve of its characters in the face of the unknown and the unexpected, making the viewer question what they think they know about human nature. A commendable representation of a genre film, it oscillates between a domestic drama and a suspense thriller with seamless dexterity.

In conclusion, Strangers in 7A is not your ordinary thriller. It's a film that subtly builds its tension and delivers distinct performances, especially from Griffith. It is a both a must-watch for any fan of 70s thrillers and an opportunity to see a beloved TV actor in an unconventional role. Although not present in mainstream discussions, this movie stands out in its own right due to its captivating plot and incredibly nuanced performances, all bound in a package of suspense, mystery, and excellent storytelling.