“Scream of Fear,” directed by Seth Holt in 1961, is a chilling psychological thriller that combines suspense and horror elements. The film is notable for its suspenseful atmosphere and the presence of Christopher Lee, known for his iconic roles in the horror genre.
The story revolves around Penny Appleby (Susan Strasberg), a young woman with a wheelchair-bound father, who returns to her family’s mansion on the French Riviera after several years abroad. She is excited to reunite with her estranged father, but upon her arrival, she is met with a shocking discovery: her father is nowhere to be found, and the staff at the house is acting strangely.
Penny’s unease intensifies when she begins to see what she believes to be her father’s corpse, but each time she investigates, it mysteriously disappears. Disturbed and uncertain about her sanity, she confides in her stepmother, Jane (Ann Todd), and her father’s physician, Dr. Gerrard (Christopher Lee). However, they dismiss her claims, attributing them to her fragile mental state.
Desperate for answers, Penny enlists the help of Robert (Ronald Lewis), a sympathetic family friend. Together, they journeyed to uncover the truth behind the strange occurrences and her father’s mysterious absence. As they delve deeper into the family’s dark secrets, shocking revelations and spine-tingling discoveries ensue.
The film masterfully builds tension and suspense with a haunting score that heightens the sense of unease. The French Riviera setting provides a picturesque yet eerie backdrop to the unfolding mystery.
The film remains a classic of British psychological horror.
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