Cast
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Karen Black
as Julie / Millicent Larimore / Therese Larimore / Amelia
Robert Burton
as Chad Foster
John Karlen
as Thomas Amman
George Gaynes
as Dr. Chester Ramsey
Jim Storm
as Eddie Nells
Kathryn Reynolds
as Anne Richards
Orin Cannon
as Motel Clerk
Gregory Harrison
as Arthur Moore
Tracy Curtis
as Tracy
Walker Edmiston
as Zuni Fetish Doll (voice) (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Dan Curtis
Producer
- Dan Curtis
Reviews
John Chard
Zuni Zest!
Trilogy of Terror is directed by Dan Curtis and written by Richard Matheson and William Nolan. A 1975 American TV movie, pic has Karen Black in three stories playing different women who each venture to the world of horror.
TV Horror Movies from the 1970s have long since proven to give fond memories to many of us who viewed them through youthful eyes back in that decade. Of course when revisiting them now with mature frame of mind etc, they mostly prove to be a little cornball, cheap, and just not very good in the grand scheme of things. Mostly that is, for there are a few exceptions that still has one just a little bit edgy as we remember how we felt when first catching a sneaky chiller. For sure we don't find ourselves hiding behind the pillows this time, but we still feel a wave of nostalgic terror coursing through our veins.
Trilogy of Terror is one such film that holds up for most of a certain age. No getting away from it, it's all down to the "famous" third segment in the trilogy, which finds Black menaced by a cursed Zuni fetish doll. Anyone with a fear of inanimate toys/ dolls etc coming to life was terrified by what Dan Curtis and his team managed to achieve on the screen - and yes even today the fear factor can still gnaw away at the senses. The other two stories were not about terror, choosing to side with a more Twilight Zone approach, which is no surprise with the great Richard Matheson on pen duties, but these are actually better appreciated by a more mature audience as they show some depth to the story telling.
With the much missed Black on terrific form closing out the deal, Trilogy of Terror deserves the love and respect it garners even today. 8/10
Oct 2, 2018
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Thriller/TV Movie film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Trilogy of Terror presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Dan Curtis 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 Trilogy of Terror took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 72 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 101 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 349 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1975, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Trilogy of Terror shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Babysitter, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Trilogy of Terror offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Faces of Snuff and Woman of Straw explore similar territory, Trilogy of Terror stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 4, 1975
- Runtime: 1h 12m
Where to Watch
