10 Forgotten 80s Horror Movies You MUST Watch
7. Next Of Kin
A notable entry from the world of Ozploitation cinema (Aussie low-budget filmmaking), Tony Williams' 1982 mind-bending horror features benefits strongly from solid lead performances and a blend of cinematic flavours such as Italian giallo and Australian action, as well as lush visuals that intentionally belie its bone-chilling story.
Linda Stevens (Jackie Kerin) is the protagonist of this slow-burn narrative, a woman who inherits her deceased mother's estate and its accompanying retirement home. Once she settles in however, mysterious deaths begin to occur as Linda begins to learn more about her troubled family history, particularly her seemingly long-passed aunt, Rita (Bernardette Gibson).
The murder mysteries at the core of the story are fairly standard fare for the genre, but the execution is where the film shines. As mentioned before, the visuals are top-notch and they are ably supported by a creeping score and precise editing. However, the true stars of Williams' motion picture are its atmosphere and pacing, each working in tandem to build a palpable sense of suspense as Linda uncovers the dark truths about her new estate.