Movie spotlight
An aging widow hides a deadly secret which she will do anything to keep buried.
Aging film star Claire Marrable, known as Aunt Alice, lives a reclusive life on her vast South Carolina estate with her loyal staff. When her estranged son dies, she learns he squandered her fortune and left behind a substantial debt. Desperate to maintain her opulent lifestyle, she hires a group of women to work on her estate, but soon becomes paranoid and violent, believing they are plotting against her.
The film received mixed to negative reviews, with many critics finding its plot convoluted and its tone inconsistent. Geraldine Page's performance was often highlighted as a strong point, but it wasn't enough to save the film from its perceived flaws. Audiences were also divided, with some appreciating the suspenseful elements and others put off by the melodrama.
Geraldine Page delivers a captivating, albeit over-the-top, performance as the increasingly unhinged Aunt Alice.
The film struggles with a predictable plot and a jarring shift in tone between psychological thriller and gothic melodrama.
Despite its flaws, the film offers moments of genuine suspense and campy enjoyment.
Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not readily available, but general sentiment suggests a mixed reaction, with some appreciating the campy horror elements and others finding the plot contrived.
The film was originally intended to be a vehicle for Bette Davis, who was famously replaced by Geraldine Page.
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When the unseen "Mr. Marrable" dies, his widow (Geraldine Page) finds that her husband's death has left her broke so she must find means to continue to thrive. To that end, she invites a succession of older ladies, widows and spinsters main...