Cast
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Susan Flannery
as Anna Cartell
Keith Baxter
as Tony Risanti
Sydney Tafler
as Sam Meadows
Ronald Leigh-Hunt
as Giles Turner
Stuart Damon
as Hal Bridie
Gita Denise
as Marie
Stephen Greif
as Enrico
Peter Hill
as Purvell
Anthony Dawes
as Doctor
Edwin Brown
as Theatre Manager
Mike Kinsey
as Reporter
Charles Cork
as Stagehand
Teresa Cahill
as Anna Cartell (singing voice)
Michael Dickinson
as Reporter
Mike Klusey
as Reporter
Crew
Director
- John Scholz-Conway
Writer
- Brian Clemens
Producer
- Ian Fordyce
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This TV Movie/Mystery/Thriller/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Nightmare for a Nightingale presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director John Scholz-Conway brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1975, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Nightmare for a Nightingale took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 59 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1975, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Nightmare for a Nightingale shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Tough Enough, which focuses more on action than character development, Nightmare for a Nightingale subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Marnie and Dial M for Murder explore similar territory, Nightmare for a Nightingale stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 2, 1975
