Mrs. Amworth

Release Date:

1975 UK/Canada

Running time:

29' (cover 29') - Source: VHS NTSC

Rating:

US: NR

Main Crew:

Director: Alvin Rakoff (A Voyage Around My Father 1982; Death Ship 1980; Hoffman
1970; Crossplot 1969)
Producer: Highgate Associates / HTV Bristol / OECA Toronto
Score: Arlon Ober / Harry Manfredini
Writer: Hugh Whitemore (based on a story by E.F. Benson)
Director of photography: Roger Pearce (camera operator)

Cast:

Summary:

MRS. AMWORTH is an eerie journey into a world where the present meets its long-forgotten past and where restless spirits claim the weak and unsuspecting.
Mrs. Amworth (Glynis Johns), the new resident in town, is a bit different. Her neighbors might call her eccentric or light-headed. But because of her charming manner, most would forgive her sometimes bizzare behavior. Indeed, if it weren't preoccupied with the mysterious and deadly epidemic gripping it, the serene English village would welcome Mrs. Amworth with open arms.
Most are utterly baffled by the isolated epidemic. Dr. Ross (Rex Holdsworth) suspects that there must be some connection between the epidemic and the biting gnats. But Mr. Urcombe (John Phillips) has a hunch that it is no mere coincidence that Mrs. Amworth and the disease suddenly appeared at the same time. As his private investigations continue, his gut feeling is frighteningly confirmed. And he must take the dangerous steps necessary to rid the village of a sinister and haunting presence.

Note:

- The movie by Canadian born film and television director, screen writer, producer and novelist, Alvin Rakoff, was designed as the pilot for a Canadian TV-series called "Classics Dark And Dangerous".
- Based on a story by E.F.Benson (son of the Archbishop of Canterbury), who is best known for "Mapp & Lucia" tales.
- Film composer Harry Manfredini specialises in writing for horror films, including Friday The 13th , House , Deep Star Six and Jason X.

Our Ranking

short review:

Short, but good! Only half an hour long, this intended pilot for a TV-series manages to deliver better than many feature-length movies. The cozy little village and the effusive but charming Mrs. Amworth (Glynis Johns with a great performance) don't seem to emanate any form of danger, but soon suspension begins to build. Although one knows who may be the culprit right from the beginning, it doesn't spoil the fun. Somehow similar to ye olde Hammer films. Very nice!