good direction, paved the way for modern slashers, low production values

Rating: 5/10 (26 May 2003)

This is a well directed and extremely well-scored movie. Unfortunately, while the movie is interesting for its place in cinematic history, (just look at the accelerated editing in the shower scene) it really isn't at all scary, or even all that interesting today. The production values for the movie are amazingly low, and it often shows (it was filmed on the cheap on a hitchcock presents TV lot). The script is weak and reeks of an exploitation film. The acting is good, though not great. Bad material handled by a great director that's worth watching if youre interested in cinema or too old to enjoy a gory, though better film. If you're looking for the zenith of this genre look elsewhere (ie: Halloween). If you're looking for the pioneer, this is it.