The Nightcomers
The Nightcomers

Movie spotlight

The Nightcomers

1972
Movie
96 min
English

Prequel to the Henry James classic "Turn of the Screw" about the events leading up to the deaths of Peter Quint and Ms. Jessel, and the slow corruption of the children in their care.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes45%
Google Users65%
Director: Michael WinnerGenres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

In 1902, two orphans, Peter and Alice, are mistreated by their governess at the oppressive estate of their young master, the sadistic Master Peter. When Master Peter's new bride, Sarah, arrives, she finds herself ensnared in the manipulative schemes of the children and the governess, who are all involved in a disturbing and violent sexual power play. As Sarah attempts to assert control and understand the unsettling dynamics within the household, she becomes a target in their dark games.

Critical Reception

The Nightcomers received mixed to negative reviews from critics upon its release. While some acknowledged the performances, particularly Marlon Brando's, many found the film to be a gratuitous and disturbing exploration of sadism and perversion. Audiences were also divided, with some appreciating its dark themes and unsettling atmosphere, while others were repulsed by its explicit content and nihilistic tone.

What Reviewers Say

  • The film is a grim and unpleasant descent into sadism and psychological torment.

  • Marlon Brando's performance is a standout, adding a layer of complexity to the disturbing narrative.

  • Critics noted the film's explicit and often shocking content, which alienated a portion of the audience.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a strong division, with many finding the film to be intensely disturbing and unsettling due to its graphic portrayal of abuse and sadism. However, some viewers appreciated its dark and provocative themes and found the performances compelling.

Fun Fact

Marlon Brando was reportedly paid $1 million for his role in the film, making him one of the highest-paid actors at the time.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Wuchak

Wuchak

_**Brando as a charismatic outcast at a manor in Victorian Britain**_ At the turn of the century in Victorian England, two orphans are raised at a remote manor by a beautiful governess (Stephanie Beacham), but a free-spirited gardener ta...