Twisted Nerve

Twisted Nerve, a psychological thriller released in 1968, is an underrated gem in the cinematic landscape of Britain in the late '60s. Directed by Roy Boulting, the movie boasts a compelling narrative that explores the complexities and ambiguities of psychology and human behavior, all the while enthralling its audience with suspense and intrigue.

The film features a stellar cast, with Hayley Mills, Hywel Bennett, and Billie Whitelaw leading the ensemble. Hayley Mills, known for her jovial Disney roles, breaks from stereotype with her portrayal of Susan Harper, a young woman caught in the web of a deceptive manipulator. Hywel Bennett delivers a captivating performance as Martin/Georgie, a man with a dual personality, who oscillates between a timid, childlike character and a scheming adult. Billie Whitelaw excels as a caring mother with a tough exterior, struggling with the moral dilemmas related to her son's behavior.

As the movie opens, we're introduced to Martin Durnley (Hywel Bennett), a seemingly ordinary man living an inconspicuous life. However, the normalcy is shattered when we find out about Martin's twisted psyche as he fabricates an alternate reality for himself. Reinventing himself as 'Georgie,' a mentally challenged boy, he manipulates and charms his way into Susan Harper's (Hayley Mills) life. The plot thickens as Martin's façade starts to crumble, and he is compelled to resort to violent means to maintain his pretense.

The narrative skilfully keeps the audience on their toes, making Twisted Nerve a nail-biting thriller that doesn't lose steam until the end credits roll. The sequence of events is carefully constructed to slowly and steadily build suspense, as Martin's dual personas begin to intersect in ways that put others in peril.

The film also explores the fascinating territory of pseudo-infantilism: a rare psychiatric syndrome that is central to the character of Martin/Georgie. Although some aspects of the representation might feel outdated due to the advancement of psychology since 1968, the film provides a solid foundation for a suspenseful storyline with its portrayal of the subject.

Twisted Nerve also stands out with its innovative storytelling, intriguing character development, and masterful direction. Director Roy Boulting masterfully translates the script to screen, employing suspenseful storytelling techniques. The movie achieves its chilling atmosphere not just through its plot, but through its expert manipulation of film language. Its cinematography, editing, and sound design all harmonize to evoke feelings of suspense and unease in the audience.

The actors, especially Hayley Mills and Hywel Bennett, carry the movie with performances that expertly balance the tension and allure of the story. Bennett, as the deranged Martin/Georgie, maintains an unnerving paradox of being both repulsive and sympathetic, while Mills, in the role of Susan Harper, skillfully portrays innocence, kindness, and strength, creating a well-rounded character that forms the moral center of the movie.

To elevate the intense scenes, the film’s soundtrack composed by Bernard Herrmann is an undercurrent that runs continuously throughout, instilling a sense of thrill and danger. The score is as much a part of the narrative pace as the dialogues and the unfolding storyline.

Another interesting aspect of Twisted Nerve falls in its social commentary, subtly addressing the stigmas attached to mental illness, the shortcomings of psychiatric pacification, and exploring maternal guilt, unflinching in the face of familial breakdown.

Overall, Twisted Nerve is a compelling and haunting psychological thriller that deserves recognition for its bold premise and execution. It’s a film that demands viewer engagement on a psychological and visceral level, and for lovers of suspense, it's an unmissable stand-out. Its dark exploration of human psychology, the nuances of its storytelling, and its superb performances make it a classic example of British cinema in the late '60s. Nevertheless, be mindful that certain scenes and themes may not be for the faint of heart, as the movie delves deep into the dark abyss of a twisted mind.