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- Carnival Of Souls (1962) - US DVD -

Tagline:-

"Is there death after life?"

Synopsis:-

'Mary Henry' is riding around in a car with her friends. When they are challenged to a 
drag race. Their car swerves and crashes over the edge of a bridge. It appears that all 
are drowned until 'Mary' emerges from the car and river. After recovering, 'Mary' accepts
a job in a town as a church organist and moves into a boarding house. She starts seeing 
a mysterious pale-faced man everywhere. She's drawn to an abandoned carnival pavillion 
in town for an unknown reason. 


Story/plot:-

Some might find this a bit slow and confusing but it's full of subtle horror. It gets 
into your head and forces you to reflect on the concept of life or death. It's like an 
earlier version of "Final Destination" in that those whose time has come, must die and 
join the other world to balance the universe or chaos will ensue.


Atmosphere:-

The dead people wear simple makeup but it's creepy as Hell. There's very little SFX but 
they are not needed as this is atmospheric and character-driven. The park is a very 
atmospheric backdrop for this movie. The cinematography is pretty normal and simple but 
used effectively with some eerie shots as well. Bear in mind, this is a very low-budget 
film.


Cast/characters:-

'Mary' is cute but she sure starts out cold. 'John Linden,' the rude man who lived across 
the hall from 'Mary,' is a jerk but he is funny too. 'Mrs. Thomas,' the landlady, I just 
can't stand her snobby smirk! Grrr! 
Great acting from people new to movies, although a few had stage experience.

Candace Hilligoss ....  Mary Henry
Frances Feist ....  Mrs. Thomas, Landlady
Sidney Berger ....  John Linden
Art Ellison ....  Minister
Stan Levitt ....  Dr. Samuels
Tom McGinnis ....  Organ Factory Boss
Forbes Caldwell ....  Organ Factory Worker
Dan Palmquist ....  Gas Station Attendant
Bill de Jarnette ....  Mechanic (as Bill De Jarnette)
Steve Boozer ....  Chip, Man at Juke Box
Pamela Ballard ....  Dress Sales Lady
Larry Sneegas ....  Drag Racer
Cari Conboy ....  Lake Zombie
Karen Pyles ....  Dress Store Customer
T.C. Adams ....  Dancing Zombie


Final Thoughts:-

Overall, I give the low-budget film high marks across the board. 


4/5.

Reviewed By Wolf By Night

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