Psychiatrist and occult expert Dr. David Sorell (smoothly played with considerable suave charm by Louis Jordan) investigates the history of an old mirror that turns out to be possessed by a powerful demonic force. Said mirror has already claimed the life of Paul Varney (a brief, but fine performance by Bradford Dillman) and threatens to claim Varney's fiance Barbara Anholt (an excellent and appealing portrayal by the lovely Lynda Day George) next.
Director Paul Wendkos relates the absorbing and intelligent story at a steady pace, ably crafts a supremely eerie mood, and stages the exciting climax with flair. The ace acting from a tip-top cast rates as another substantial asset: Carroll O'Connor as the amiable Myles Donovan, Wilfrid Hyde-White as kindly mentor Harry Snowden, Marsha Hunt as Paul's concerned mother Mrs. Varney, and Katherine Woodville as the deceitful Ingrid Dorne. Andrew J. McIntyre's sharp cinematography makes neat use of an occasionally prowling camera and boasts some cool askew camera angles that convey a sense of dread and unease without ever becoming overly flashy. Bill Goldenberg's spirited shivery score hits the shivery spot. A superior terror telefilm.
Director Paul Wendkos relates the absorbing and intelligent story at a steady pace, ably crafts a supremely eerie mood, and stages the exciting climax with flair. The ace acting from a tip-top cast rates as another substantial asset: Carroll O'Connor as the amiable Myles Donovan, Wilfrid Hyde-White as kindly mentor Harry Snowden, Marsha Hunt as Paul's concerned mother Mrs. Varney, and Katherine Woodville as the deceitful Ingrid Dorne. Andrew J. McIntyre's sharp cinematography makes neat use of an occasionally prowling camera and boasts some cool askew camera angles that convey a sense of dread and unease without ever becoming overly flashy. Bill Goldenberg's spirited shivery score hits the shivery spot. A superior terror telefilm.