Scream, Pretty Peggy (1973) (TV)

One of the better made-for-TV films from the 70s, 17 May 2017

College student Peggy (Sian Barbara Allen) takes a job doing some light cleaning at the home of sculptor Jeffrey Elliot (Ted Bessell) and his mother (Bette Davis). Peggy begins to notice some strange goings-on in a room above the garage. Jeffrey tells her to stay away. He tells her that the room is home to his mentally deranged sister. Peggy suspicions grow when she learns about the disappearance of the girl who previously had her job. What's going on?

Scream, Pretty Peggy is probably one of the better made-for-TV films from the 70s. I remember seeing this one when I was about 10 and it scared the pants off me. That's not saying much, though, because back then pretty much anything scared the pants off me. Today, while I still enjoy Scream, Pretty Peggy, I realize that the plot lacks originality. If you've seen Psycho or Homicidal, you can pretty much guess where this thing is headed and how it's going to end. It's still a lot of fun, though. I credit director Gordon Hessler for keeping things lively and interesting along the journey. I also credit Hessler for creating a film filled with atmosphere. There's more atmosphere in Scream, Pretty Peggy than in a lot of better known horror movies with big budget theatrical releases. Like I always say, atmosphere is key to an effective horror movie. Most of the acting is okay. Bette Davis really has little to do and pretty much sleepwalks through the movie. But who cares, she's Bette Davis and she's always a good watch regardless of what she's doing (or not doing). Bessell is solid. My only issue with Bessell is that it's impossible not to think of That Girl when you see him. Allen is the weakest cast member. She just has a grating quality about her. And, it doesn't help matters that her character is super annoying. Appropriately enough, the film's finale is a highlight. The killer's reveal is nice and creepy. The sculptures add an especially atmospheric touch.

7/10