The Strangler
The Strangler

Movie spotlight

The Strangler

1964
Movie
89 min
English

An overweight lab technician with low self esteem, brought on by his dominant mother, becomes a serial killer of female nurses.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Burt TopperGenres: Horror, Thriller, Crime

Plot Summary

In London, a series of brutal strangulation murders has the city in a panic. The police are baffled as the killer leaves no clues and seems to strike randomly. As the body count rises, a desperate search ensues to unmask the perpetrator before another innocent life is taken.

Critical Reception

The Strangler is a low-budget, atmospheric thriller that leans heavily on its menacing lead performance and noir-inspired visuals. While not a critical darling, it has gained a cult following for its gritty portrayal of a serial killer and its suspenseful build-up, despite some dated elements.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Victor Buono's chilling performance as the tormented killer.

  • Noted for its suspenseful atmosphere and gritty, noir-like feel.

  • Criticized for its low budget and some predictable plot turns.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this older film, but those available often highlight Victor Buono's compelling portrayal of the killer as a significant draw, appreciating the film's dark tone and suspense, though some find the pacing uneven.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

Victor Buono, who plays the titular strangler, was reportedly so immersed in his character that he received psychiatric counseling during and after the filming of 'The Strangler'.

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