The Haunting

Reading other reviews for this leaves me feeling like I must have watched a different film. This original version of "The Haunting," based on Shirley Jackson’s novel "The Haunting of Hill House," just didn’t do it for me. I found it more boring than scary, and the overacting, especially by Julie Harris who played Eleanor “Nel” Lance, was a turn-off. But, I did love the ornate house, which was the most interesting part of the film. Perhaps at the time it was made it was groundbreaking, but I don’t feel it holds up. While I didn’t love this, it was definitely better than the 1999 remake.

This is truly terrific and terrifying adaption of the Shirley Jackson novel. Great acting, amazing sets and plenty of suspense all in black and white. Look for Amber Tamblyn's father in a starring role too. Be prepared to be scared!

Having read the book thoroughly, the film is more boring, no suspense left

The explanation for filming this from the artistic and technical standpoint was worthwhile and deserves 3 stars. However, I thought the story was totally boring. The actresses are known for their brilliance and finesse and it was interesting see them doing what they considered fine acting ..as do/did the majority of reviewers. .

OK. This 1960 ghost story was kinda scary, but - Why the house's less-than-friendly poltergeist wanted Eleanor (clearly the dullest and most irritating person in the group gathered at the house) to join forces with it was beyond me.

You'd think that even an erratic doppleganger would be seeking someone who might "liven" things up around the place and maybe even contribute some new and imaginative techniques to the art of haunting a house.

To me it was as plain as the nose on Eleanor's mousy, non-descript face that she wasn't the right candidate for this sort of unique undertaking.

This classic stands it's ground even today in it's scare factor. Creepy and downright terrifying at time... I've seen it many times, and still certain scenes creep me out a little too much! Highly recommend it for a stormy October night.

Several commenters have asked, "Why Eleanor?" I would answer that this character is the most psychologically scarred, the one who is least connected to the real world, the person most likely to cross over. Eleanor is clearly sensitive to psychic vibrations and is receptive. This makes her an inviting target for the unearthly powers that are in the Haunting. See it for the claustrophobic hallways, the eerie housekeeper, the great music and cinematography. This is an eerie treat.

I guess I'm in the minority, but I found this to be a case of the student surpassing the teacher. I think the '99 remake was better than this original (not much, but better). I realize the remake had an unfair advantage with special effects technological advancements, but this wasn't scary at all. Squeaks, moans, groans, crazy camera angles, and an expanding door. That's it. I found the main character, Eleanor, unlikeable, and annoying. I guess I'm spoiled. 1963's "The Haunting" should've been called "The Yawning".

One of the best Gothic horror.

Wonderful old chestnut from 1963, based on the novel of the same name by the incomparable Shirley Jackson, queen of there-are-more-terrors-on-the-inside-than-the-outside horror fiction. Don't fail to take special note of Claire Bloom's snazzy wardrobe by iconic 1960s Welsh fashion designer Mary Quant.