The Mephisto Waltz
The Mephisto Waltz

The Mephisto Waltz

1971Movie115 minEnglish

A frustrated pianist himself, music journalist Myles Clarkson is thrilled to interview virtuoso Duncan Ely. Duncan, however, is terminally ill and not much interested in Myles until noticing that Myles' hands are ideally suited for piano. Suddenly, he can't get enough of his new friend, and Myles' wife, Paula, becomes suspicious of Duncan's intentions. Her suspicions grow when Duncan dies and Myles mysteriously becomes a virtuoso overnight.

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IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes55%
Google Users69%
Director: Paul WendkosGenres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller, Supernatural

Plot Summary

A successful but unfulfilled magazine writer, Myles Corbin, becomes entangled with a charismatic, occult-practicing record executive, Duncan Ely. Duncan believes Myles's girlfriend, Jacqueline Bisset's character Nicola, is the reincarnation of his deceased wife. As Myles is drawn deeper into Duncan's world of black magic and obsession, he begins to suspect that Duncan is trying to transfer his soul into his body, all while Nicola finds herself increasingly attracted to the demonic power Duncan represents.

Critical Reception

The Mephisto Waltz received a mixed to positive reception upon its release. Critics noted its atmospheric tension and stylish direction, but some found the plot somewhat convoluted and the supernatural elements less convincing than the psychological thriller aspects. Audience reception was similarly divided, with some appreciating the unsettling themes and performances, while others were put off by the darker, more esoteric subject matter.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stylish direction and atmospheric suspense.
  • The film's exploration of occult themes and psychological manipulation was a highlight for many.
  • Some critics found the narrative occasionally strained and the supernatural elements less impactful.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's intriguing premise and its ability to create a sense of unease. The performances, particularly from the lead actors, were often cited as a strong point. However, a portion of viewers found the plot to be somewhat predictable or the supernatural aspects not fully realized.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Fred M. Stewart, which was inspired by Franz Liszt's composition 'Mephisto Waltz No. 1'.

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Wuchak

Wuchak

_**Alan Alda as a concert pianist with a satanic anointing**_ A music journalist in the Los Angeles area (Alda) meets an aging piano virtuoso (Curt Jurgens), not to mention his beautiful daughter (Barbara Parkins), and automatically beco...