The Uninvited (VHS, 1992)

Although I am writing this review on a VHS format, this terrific movie is available on DVD. It is one of the best movies of the genre that combines mystery, suspense and some truly frightening moments thanks to the distinguished cast. This has been reviewed prior to mine so I won't go into plot particulars, but the tight script and superb cast turn this thriller into more than just a mere ghost story. Set in the English coast Milland and his sister expertly played by Ruth Hussey find their cliffside home less than idealic. The story moves at a quick pace and the supporting cast that includes Donald Crisp and Cornelia Otis Skinner make this a one of a kind movie without resorting to expensive special effects and "slasher" that is so typical of the genre today. For a rousing good time with a solid cast and story, this is a must have movie. I would not recommend this for younger children as this flick can be truly frightening at times.

Ray Milland, a terrific Oscar-winning actor for his portrayal of an alcoholic in "The Lost Weekend", shows his versatility in this interesting, often surprising tale of a brother and sister who encounter the supernatural.
A beautiful, uninhabited mansion on the cliffs of Western England catches the eye of a brother and sister on vacation from London. They soon discover that the mansion is for sale, and for an incredibly low price. The man who sells them the house warns them of the howling winds they may hear in the house at night. They pay no heed.
After the first night spent in the house, they discover the howling winds are not really winds at all. They are the moans of a sorrowful spirit. The siblings also discover cold spots throughout the house and a room that overwhelms them with a sense of dread. Yet, they stay. Discovering the reason for these disturbances is what they have in mind.
All in all, the movie is very effective except for the attempts at comedy sprinkled throughout. I would recommend this title to anyone who likes a good, old-fashioned ghost story told, for the most part, with intelligence and sincerity. The acting is good, with a few exceptions from some of the minor players.
Worth a look.

The Uninvited is a spooky, scary movie that may be the best I've ever seen. Itwas filmed in black and white with a great soundtrack- Stella by Starlight and so many scary moments it will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a hard to find movie, definitely worth the search. It is highly recommended.

This is a movie adaptation of one of the best ghost stories ever written. I have read the book several times and never tire of it. Of course, some of the detail is missing in the movie, nevertheless, the plot moves very well, and the suspense builds. If this film were made now, there would probably be many more special effects, but the suggestion of the ghosts is very strong and effective enough to give me chills. Ray Milland plays the leading role, ably assisted by Ruth Hussey, who plays his sister. The ingenue, Stella, is beautifully portrayed by Gail Russell, and her father is played by screen veteran character actor Donald Crisp. This movie is well worth watching and will live as one of the fine classic films.

This is one of the classic Ghost Stories and one of my favorite movies. Even though it is in black and white and made in the 40's the special effects were great.

Only thing I don't like it that they have not come out with it on DVD yet. The only way to purchase a copy is to buy a used VHS.