HOUSE ON GREENAPPLE ROAD is the pilot film for the TV series, DAN AUGUST.
A murder has apparently been committed. At least there's evidence of extreme violence, in the form of a blood-spattered kitchen. In spite of the copious amount of blood, no body is found. The apparent victim is Marian Ord (Janet Leigh), whose story is told through flashbacks.
Christopher George is quite good as August, playing him with a harder edge than Burt Reynolds' version in the series. Keenan Wynn plays Dan's partner. There's also Barry Sullivan as the police Chief, and Ed Asner as the sheriff! Julie Harris is also involved, playing Marian's sister, Leona.
More drama / police procedural than thriller, this movie may be considered "boring" by those raised on mindless action films.
Amid the grim goings on, there is mirth to be found when we're introduced to the kooky "Church Of Contemplation" and its loopy leader (Lawrence Dane).
Also, watch for young Eve Plum in an early role...