The Dunwich Horror

The 1970 film, The Dunwich Horror, is a supernatural horror film that has been hailed as a memorable adaptation of one of H.P. Lovecraft's most renowned stories. Directed by Daniel Haller and produced by Roger Corman, the movie features a cast that includes prominent actors such as Sandra Dee, Dean Stockwell, and Ed Begley.

The film unravels in the intricate setting of the New England college scene. Sandra Dee performs as Nancy Wagner, a young and innocent college student. Dean Stockwell turns in an unsettling performance as the enigmatic Wilbur Whateley, while Ed Begley is captivating as the ambitious occult scholar Professor Henry Armitage.

In the opening scenes, we encounter Armitage delivering a lecture on weird rituals and dark mysticism of ancient times. Whateley, a newcomer into the campus scene, takes a curious interest in the controversial subject matter and manifests an unusual interest in an archaic text called the Necronomicon, which is kept under lock and key at the library. Whateley’s thirst for occult knowledge and his creepy demeanor ignite an undercurrent of dread, seeping out of the reels as the plot thickens.

Nancy Wagner, in her naive vulnerability, crosses paths with Whateley, unaware of the terrifyingly strange world she's about to step into. With his compelling charisma and subtle treachery, Whateley convinces Nancy to accompany him to his hometown Dunwich, a secluded, eerie place that exists in isolation from the rest of the world.

The town of Dunwich is a character in its own right. It stands as a symbol of ancient curses, eerie folklore, chilling unspoken secrets and, perhaps, downright evil. The atmospheric tension and suspense are masterfully maintained throughout the film, with every shot of the haunted rural landscapes adding to the impending doom.

Ed Begley executes the role of Professor Armitage impeccably. Initially dismissive of Whateley’s ominous obsession with the Necronomicon, he eventually realizes the danger posing itself onto the innocent Nancy. Armitage’s quest to unravel Whateley’s diabolical plans adds an additional layer of tension to the narrative, as he battles not only to save a life but perhaps the entire world from a malevolent supernatural power that is slowly awakening.

The film is beautifully shot and the visuals are particularly distinctive. The cinematography generates an ambient, almost surreal horror environment that authentically represents Lovecraft's eccentric narrative style. The sense of foreboding and ominous inevitability virtually reverberates off the screen, and it's almost impossible not to get sucked into the eeriness of the setting.

The shots of the Whateley house and the largely unfathomable landscape abutting are enough to immediately establish a formidable environment. The hallucinatory sequences two-thirds into the film, though controversial, add an aspect of psychedelic realism that aligns well with the underlining supernatural theme.

In addition to the impressive visuals, the musical score plays a noteworthy role in enhancing the film's ambiance. Les Baxter's score adds to the ominous, unsettling atmosphere complementing the visual narrative and deepening the experience of morbid anticipation.

One of the strengths of The Dunwich Horror film lies in its cast’s outstanding performances. Dean Stockwell stands out with his portrayal of the deeply disturbing Wilbur Whateley. Investing complete sincerity into his role, Stockwell leaves an indelible impression as the brooding and sinister antagonist. Equally compelling is the charming Sandra Dee, who brings the necessary vulnerability and innocence to her role that makes her character integral to the film's haunting climax. Ed Begley's performance as the erudite Professor Armitage adds an anchoring element, providing stability to a plot that otherwise spirals into inexplicable chaos.

In conclusion, The Dunwich Horror is a captivating atmospheric horror film that delivers an interpretation worthy of Lovecraft’s original story. Anchored by stellar performances from Sandra Dee, Dean Stockwell, and Ed Begley, this movie masterfully builds up suspense while delivering on atmospheric tension and genuine fear. It provides a unique medley of traditional horror and occult mysticism, making it a must-watch for fans of the supernatural and H.P. Lovecraft.