The Evictors

The Evictors is a sensational period horror movie that came out in 1979. Under the skilled direction of Charles B. Pierce, the film combines elements of suspense, mystery, and, of course, horror, with an immersive period setting to create a unique cinematic experience.

The film features the exceptional acting talents of Vic Morrow, Michael Parks, and Jessica Harper. Their stellar performances enhance the spine-chilling plotline of the movie, further drawing the audience into the unnerving world of 'The Evictors'.

The movie opens at the end of World War II, with the young couple, Ben and Ruth Watkins (played by Michael Parks and Jessica Harper), looking for a fresh start. They move into a charming old farmhouse in rural Louisiana, hoping that the serene location will be the perfect place to start their new life together. However, the couple soon realizes that their dream home, secluded in acres of farmland and deep woods, may not be so dreamy after all. The older, worn-down vibe of the house from the 1940s gives it an eerie look, setting the tone for the haunting occurrences that are about to follow.

Michael Parks, renowned for his roles in many popular films from the same era, delivers a convincing portrayal of Ben Watkins, the ambitious husband determined to make the best of his new life in Louisiana. Parks' performance imbues the character of Ben with realism, seamlessly shifting from the hopeful new homeowner to a man caught up in a haunting mystery that challenges his understanding of the world around him. Jessica Harper further enhances the unsettling vibe of the movie with her brilliant performance. Harper plays Ruth Watkins, the vulnerable and increasingly fearful wife who becomes the primary target of the terrifying events that begin to unfold in the farmhouse.

On the other hand, Vic Morrow does an exemplary job in his role as Jake Rudd, the local realtor who had a hand in selling the house to the Watkins. Unlike the hopeful couple, Rudd is aware of the house's grim past, only revealing what he deems fit. Morrow's portrayal of Rudd is nuanced, making him one of the most intriguing characters in the film. Through his character, the audience is given glimpses into the dark history of the house, further ramping up the suspense.

As the young couple begins to settle in, bizarre incidents start to occur, hinting at something ominous lurking around. They feel an unseen presence, hear strange noises, and encounter mysterious events. This forces them to confront the fact that they may not be the only inhabitants of the house. As the terror grows, they finally learn about the house's horrifying past - it had been the location of a series of evictions, each followed by brutal murders. This shocking revelation puts a dent in their dream to make the house their new home.

This chilling narrative is supported by the film's exceptional use of the post-war rural Louisiana setting. The isolated farmhouse, the expansive forests, and the dated setup all contribute to creating an atmosphere of dread and suspense throughout the film. Not only does this setting serve to heighten the tension, but it also reinforces the historical aspect of the film, creating a poignant contrast between the horrors of the past and the couple's disrupted present.

In "The Evictors", Charles B. Pierce skilfully weaves a chilling tale set against the backdrop of a serene rural landscape. What starts as a hopeful journey into the future for a young couple soon turns into a terrifying ordeal in the past. Through vivid storytelling and spectacular performances, "The Evictors" traps the audience in a haunting story that subtly combines the post-war era with a distinctive horror narrative.

While the plot may sound like a pretty standard haunted house story, the execution is anything but. This film is notable for its undercurrent of mystery and its careful blend of historical elements with the traditional horror genre. The Evictors takes its time to build tension, slowly revealing the creepy secrets of the house without resorting to cheap scares or gore.

In conclusion, "The Evictors" is a unique gem from the late seventies that must not be missed by fans of the suspense and horror genres. With a skillful blend of horror, mystery, history, and an impressive cast, this film is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, proving that the dread of the unseen can be far more terrifying than what meets the eye. If you're in the mood for a frightening trip into the past, "The Evictors" might just be the ticket.