In the 1974 film "Knife For The Ladies," set in the American West during the late 1800s, a small town is being terrorized by a serial killer. The murders are particularly heinous as the killer, who is a woman, uses a knife to mutilate the genitals of her male victims. Ruth Roman stars as Elizabeth, a woman who arrives in the town to claim her inheritance, a hotel that she plans to renovate and run. However, upon her arrival, she discovers that the town is in a state of panic due to the string of murders. The local law enforcement is unable to apprehend the killer, and tensions within the community are on the rise.
Elizabeth becomes determined to find the killer and put an end to the violence plaguing the town. As she investigates, she becomes a target for the killer, who seems to have a personal vendetta against her. Meanwhile, tension simmers between the various townspeople, as they begin to suspect each other and their motives.
Throughout the film, the tension builds as Elizabeth and the townspeople struggle to uncover the identity of the killer before it's too late. The cinematography of the western landscape provides a stunning backdrop for the suspenseful storyline.
Jack Elam co-stars in the film as Sheriff Buck, who is tasked with apprehending the killer. Elam's character is well-developed, with a complex backstory that is revealed over the course of the film. His interactions with Elizabeth provide a glimpse into the town's history and the possible motivations for the killer's actions.
While the film was clearly inspired by the popular slasher films of the 1970s, it stands out due to its unique setting and themes. The use of a female killer who specifically targets men's genitals adds a layer of complexity to the film and its portrayal of gender roles. The film also touches on themes of revenge, justice, and the dark side of small town life.
Overall, "Knife For The Ladies" is a suspenseful and engaging thriller with strong performances from its lead actors. The film's unique setting, themes, and use of a female killer make it stand out in the crowded genre of 1970s horror.
Knife For The Ladies is a 1974 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes.
