8/10
Exceptional morbid comedy/drama
28 October 2002
Witty reverse morality story of an obnoxious old woman (Whitty) who takes in a lodger/servant to help her (and to spite her live-in niece, Russell, who doesn't know her aunt is leaving her $100 in her rich estate). He's "not an ordinary servant", and neither is she. They have a love story, too, shared in the dark in a time when fear and possibility are the same, and death and sex interchangeable. Thus, Danny (nice, innocent sounding name), left alone with the old woman -- makes his move. Montgomery is stunning and disarming as he shifts from "play acting" as the charming young gent to the possibly psychotic. Russell is also a convincing dark horse, saddled with a lame lover. Great photography, decent directing. This is a should-be legendary suspense film.
21 out of 24 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed