Review of One Dark Night (1982) by Kristal C — 13 Mar 2014

One Dark Night is the creepy 80's classic about sorority pledge Meg Tilly whose determined to join a popular group that is ran by her boyfriend's ex-girlfriend who is considerably jealous and mean-spirited as her and her group put her through the ultimate hell by having her stay the night at the creepy mausoleum.

Unbeknownst to them, an evil man who is capable of moving objects and drawing energy from victims has just been buried there, but he is far from dead as he uses his powers from beyond the grave to make the evening especially traumatic for his latest set of victims.

A side story involving the madman's estranged daughter learning of his powers as well as her own, which include visions of the girls being haunted in the mausoleum. Adam West shows up as her husband in a somewhat wasted, but still slightly comical role.

I'm ashamed I've only now seen this movie as it was very enjoyable. Considering the sometimes risque subject matter, not to mention the sheer creepiness throughout some of the movie, and the usage of grotesque dead body effects, it's a wonder that this film is only rated PG.

This certifies my thoughts on the MPAA being a corrupt system of people with right-wing agendas who would have instantly rated this movie R nowadays. Back then PG films had balls, as this little underrated gem does.

Good effects, good characters, decently thrilling and chilling. Great directorial debut from Tom McLoughlin, who would go on to direct other great horror fare like Friday the 13th 6: Jason Lives and Sometimes They Come Back.

Granted, it spends an hour building and building, but when all hell breaks loose, it totally becomes worth it. Fun film!