SSP Cinema Classics 29 - The Haunting (1963) Review

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Written by Michael Wilson

Welcome back to Silver Screen Cinema Classics, where we revisit the films that defined their genres, influenced generations of filmmakers, and continue to spark debate decades after their release. This month, Michael Wilson is joined by Neil and Michelle from the I Is For Investigate podcast to step through the doors of Hill House and explore one of the most celebrated horror films ever made: Robert Wise's 1963 classic, The Haunting. Adapted from Shirley Jackson's acclaimed novel The Haunting of Hill House, the film follows Eleanor Lance, a lonely and emotionally fragile woman who joins a paranormal investigation at the notorious Hill House. What begins as a scientific study soon becomes something far stranger, as the house appears to exert an unsettling influence over those within its walls. But is Hill House genuinely haunted, or are we witnessing the slow collapse of a troubled mind? Together, we examine the film's unique approach to horror, its masterful atmosphere, and the filmmaking techniques that continue to unsettle audiences more than sixty years later. We discuss Nelson Gidding's screenplay and its ambiguous interpretation of Jackson's story, Julie Harris' extraordinary performance as Eleanor, and Robert Wise's remarkable direction, which relies on suggestion, sound design and psychological unease rather than overt shocks. Along the way we delve into the innovative camera work, distorted lenses, practical effects and groundbreaking sound design that helped make Hill House feel alive, as well as the film's fascinating production history and its lasting influence on everything from The Blair Witch Project to Paranormal Activity. We also consider the film's portrayal of Theodora, its themes of loneliness and belonging, and why audiences continue to disagree over whether The Haunting is one of the scariest films ever made or simply one of the most effective exercises in psychological suggestion. As always, we round things off by choosing our favourite characters, moments and lines before delivering our final verdicts on a film that remains a landmark of supernatural cinema. So lock the doors, keep the lights on, and join us as we investigate the mysteries of Hill House. After all, whatever walks there... walks alone.

Created, Hosted and Written by Michael Wilson. Edited and Produced by Mike Wilson.