What's the Matter with Helen?
What's the Matter with Helen?

What's the Matter with Helen?

1971Movie101 minEnglish

Two middle-aged women move to Hollywood, California after their sons are convicted of a notorious murder and open a dance school for children eager to tap their way to stardom.

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Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Director: Curtis HarringtonGenres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

Helen and her mother run a lonely sanitarium for radio-active performers. After her mother's death, Helen, distraught, continues the business. Her new patients are two vaudeville actresses, who become entangled in a series of mysterious deaths and Helen's increasingly unstable behavior.

Critical Reception

A cult classic psychological thriller, 'What's the Matter with Helen?' is often praised for its unique blend of melodrama and horror, stylish visuals, and strong performances from its lead actresses, despite some critics finding its plot convoluted.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its campy atmosphere and performances.
  • Noted for its psychological horror elements and exploration of grief.
  • Some found the plot to be melodramatic and slow-paced.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's unique, unsettling tone and the compelling performances of its veteran actresses, particularly Shelley Winters and Agnes Moorehead. While some appreciate its campy aspects and psychological depth, others find the pacing uneven.

Fun Fact

The film is notable for being one of the last major theatrical releases for veteran actresses Agnes Moorehead and Debbie Reynolds, who deliver memorable performances despite the film's cult status.

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