The Amazing Mr. X is an entertaining 80 minutes with some creeps, some thrills, and some surprises. Richard Carlson (King Solomon's Mines; Creature from the Black Lagoon) is today probably the best-known member of the cast, but it also features Cathy O'Donnell (The Best Years of Our Lives), Turhan Bey (Night in Paradise), and Donald Curtis (Earth vs. The Flying Saucers). Fans of classic stage magic might also appreciate an appearance by Harry Mendoza (The Great Mendoza) as a private eye.
The story is along the lines of something that might later have found a home on Rod Serling's Night Gallery or Hammer House of Horror, but the telling is efficient and stylish. The audience is allowed to connect the dots without dreary exposition. The things we know are going to happen are dealt with quickly, so that we can get to the surprises. There's also plenty on screen to divert the viewer--the spiritualist's den is especially well handled, with great use of lighting. And who can resist a trained crow?
This would be a great choice for an atmospheric, gore-free Hollywood fright-fest.
The story is along the lines of something that might later have found a home on Rod Serling's Night Gallery or Hammer House of Horror, but the telling is efficient and stylish. The audience is allowed to connect the dots without dreary exposition. The things we know are going to happen are dealt with quickly, so that we can get to the surprises. There's also plenty on screen to divert the viewer--the spiritualist's den is especially well handled, with great use of lighting. And who can resist a trained crow?
This would be a great choice for an atmospheric, gore-free Hollywood fright-fest.