“The Haunting” 1963 Original Movie Still Very Scary
Haunted House—Sean MacEntee (Flickr.com)
“The Haunting”, 1963 starring Julie Harris and Claire Bloom, is simply a scary movie based mainly on what you can’t see. It is that fear of the unknown, yet knowing it is out there that really gets under your skin and brings out those goose bumps. This film did not need all the in-your-face special effects that the movies of today tend to rely on. This one sure beats out the remake of 1999. As a matter of fact, the original version leaves that one in the dust. There is just no comparing the two.
Based on Shirley Jackson’s “The Haunting of Hill House“, the story centers around a study being conducted by Dr. Markway, who is doing research to try and prove the existence of ghosts. The investigation takes place at a large, foreboding mansion known as Hill House. The house is an ideal place to conduct the investigation due to its history of violent murder and insanity.
Claire Bloom plays the clairvoyant known as Theo, and Julie Harris plays the ever insecure Eleanor. Dr. Markway had sent out invitations to people who had had a prior experience of some kind with the supernatural. That is how both these women end up at Hill House.
This movie is still quite frightening to me. Even the trailer gives me chills. Again, it is the fear of the unknown. Moving in black and white between shadows, the effects in “The Haunting”, 1963 version work flawlessly.
“The Haunting”, Movie Trailer:
Another Great Trailer, Showing More of the House Itself:
A Scary Scene From “The Haunting”
“The Haunting” 1963 is a great movie to watch for Halloween, or on any dark and gloomy day or night. It ranks as one of my favorite scary classic movies of all time. Just be sure to cuddle up with a loved one, pet or blanket throw for this one. Just beware of things that go bump in the night!
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Oh Lord, I can’t tell you just how much I love this old movie! Shirley Jackson’s book was great as well. Who needs special effects?
Scot
Scot, I agree with you. The movie was down right scary due to the sound effects and camera angles alone!
Cindi
Oh, how I love this movie! I actually got to see it when it came out. I was 14 years old. It was really scary then-and still is!
Keila
I was too young to see it in the theater, Keila. I was 7 at the time. I do enjoy it every time I see it however.