This is one of the most enjoyable horror films ever. The closing credits gag reveals the spirit of the picture - it is not to be taken seriously. By the way don't spoil a great laugh by reading what that gag is, in the "crazy credits" section. This is pure camp fun, played brilliantly by Joan Crawford in an Oscar worthy performance. The opening narration is hilarious - and Joan's get-up (black fright wig, clinging floral dress and clanging bangles) is outrageous. You'll probably guess the surprise ending - but that's not what this film is about. Besides the fun element there is also a subversive political statement - Castle sets his axe-murder horror on a sweet little farm, that looks like a set from a family sit-com. And the family that live in it are too good to be true as well. But all this is a facade, as insanity, lust and murder lie just below the surface.
Also of note in the cast are George Kennedy - excellent as the twisted handy-man, and Diane Baker as the perfect daughter. And apparently that's Lee Majors being hacked up at the start of the film. Castle does a brilliant directing job, but it's Joan's film all the way - what she can do with knitting and matches is truly amazing! And the scene where she attempts to seduce her daughter's boyfriend is nothing short of magic. I can't believe that an actress who could play this scene with such good humour, could have taken herself as seriously as "Mommie Dearest" suggests. Do not miss this over-looked classic.
Also of note in the cast are George Kennedy - excellent as the twisted handy-man, and Diane Baker as the perfect daughter. And apparently that's Lee Majors being hacked up at the start of the film. Castle does a brilliant directing job, but it's Joan's film all the way - what she can do with knitting and matches is truly amazing! And the scene where she attempts to seduce her daughter's boyfriend is nothing short of magic. I can't believe that an actress who could play this scene with such good humour, could have taken herself as seriously as "Mommie Dearest" suggests. Do not miss this over-looked classic.