10 Weaknesses Of Great Horror Films
4. Underwhelming Conclusion - The Legend Of Hell House (1973)
Based on the Richard Matheson classic, Hell House, this British 70s gem is one of the definitive films of the haunted house sub-genre.
It boasts excellent performances (particularly from the always reliable Roddy McDowell), a deliciously sinister atmosphere, and - for the most part - a captivating supernatural mystery with intriguing twists and turns. Why only for the most part? Frustratingly, the film falls at the final hurdle, with a comparatively naff conclusion. The majority of the film is handled in such a masterful way that its grand payoff is an anticlimactic let down.
Once the true nature of the malevolent spirit is uncovered, the final revelations are frankly laughable. As far as moody, supernatural tales are concerned, perhaps sometimes it's best to leave a bit of mystery unsolved. Not all questions require answering.