Cathy's Curse is a Canadian horror movie released in 1977, directed by Eddy Matalon and distributed by Animage Films. The plot revolves around a family who moves into a long-abandoned ancestral mansion, unaware of the dark history that lies within its walls. The film stars Alan Scarfe, Beverly Murray, and Randi Allen. The story takes place in the 1940s, in a small town in Quebec. George Gimble (Alan Scarfe) and his wife Vivian (Beverly Murray) move into George's late father's mansion with their daughter Cathy (Randi Allen). Soon after their arrival, strange things start happening in the house. Cathy discovers a creepy old doll in the attic, and she becomes obsessed with it. She starts to exhibit bizarre behavior, and her parents begin to worry about her mental health. However, it soon becomes apparent that there is something more sinister at work.
As the story unfolds, we learn that George's father was a tyrannical man who mistreated his family. His daughter was killed in a tragic accident, and his wife committed suicide. The angry spirit of the deceased daughter appears to have taken possession of Cathy, using her as a channel to exact revenge on the living. The supernatural forces at work in the house grow increasingly malevolent, jeopardizing the safety of the Gimble family.
The movie is notable for its cheap production values and clunky dialogue. However, it is also a classic example of the Canadian horror genre, which often features low-budget, campy films with a cult following. The movie's director, Matalon, was known for his work on exploitation movies, and Cathy's Curse has all the hallmarks of a grindhouse production. The film's low-fi aesthetic and exaggerated acting have made it a beloved cult classic among horror fans.
The film's strength lies in its atmosphere. The house, with its creaky floorboards and dark corners, is genuinely creepy. The doll, with its blank stare and perpetually open mouth, is the stuff of nightmares. The cinematography, while cheap, effectively creates a moody, foreboding atmosphere. The film also benefits from a haunting musical score that adds to the ominous tone.
Despite its low production values, Cathy's Curse is a surprisingly effective horror movie. The film's campiness only adds to its charm, and its central theme of vengeful spirits is a classic horror trope. The film's climax is particularly effective, with a tight focus on the possessed Cathy that creates a claustrophobic sense of dread.
In conclusion, Cathy's Curse is a quintessential cult horror film that has earned a following among fans of low-budget horror. While it may not be a masterpiece of cinema, it is an engaging and atmospheric film that effectively captures the spirit of Canadian exploitation movies. Despite its flaws, it remains an enjoyable and entertaining example of the horror genre.
Cathy's Curse is a 1977 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes.
It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.5.
