Miss Leslie's Dolls is a 1973 horror film that follows the story of a young couple who stumble upon a mysterious mansion deep in the woods. The mansion is owned by the enigmatic Miss Leslie, whose dolls serve as her only company. As the couple spends more time in the mansion, they begin to unravel the dark secrets that lie beneath the surface.
Salvador Ugarte plays the role of the male lead, Ralph, who is initially skeptical of the strange mansion they've come across. Terri Juston stars as his girlfriend, Christine, who is more curious and eager to explore. The two characters have good chemistry and work well together on screen. Marcelle Bichette gives a captivating performance as Miss Leslie, the eccentric owner of the mansion.
The film opens with a tense, atmospheric sequence that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. As Ralph and Christine navigate the winding roads in the woods, the sound of a child crying can be heard in the distance. The eerie music and dim lighting build the suspense and create a sense of unease.
Upon arriving at the mansion, the couple finds that Miss Leslie is more than a little unusual. The mansion is filled with dolls, which Miss Leslie claims to be her only source of companionship. Despite her strange behavior, Ralph and Christine decide to stay the night as a storm begins to rage outside.
As they settle in, the couple begins to discover that there is something deeply unsettling about the dolls. They seem to have a life of their own, and their glassy eyes follow Ralph and Christine wherever they go. Miss Leslie grows increasingly possessive of the couple's attention, and Ralph begins to develop a suspicion that there is more to the mansion than meets the eye.
Throughout the film, the tension builds as the couple discovers more and more about the dark history of Miss Leslie and her dolls. There are plenty of scares to be had, including several jump scares and moments of genuine terror. The use of lighting and sound help to create a haunting atmosphere that stays with the viewer long after the movie is over.
Overall, Miss Leslie's Dolls is an excellent example of 70s horror cinema. The film has a distinct style that is at once eerie, unsettling, and deeply compelling. The performances from the three main actors are solid, and the cinematography and direction are all top-notch. While the movie may not be for everyone, those who enjoy classic horror films are sure to appreciate Miss Leslie's Dolls.
