Tales of Terror (1962)

When it comes to anthology-based films, few stand the test of time. But here, with Vincent cast in three lead roles, the magic works. Suspense, comedy and horror are dished up with Vincent playing it to the hilt and listen to that voice.

Morella
Here Price plays Locke, whose bitterness over the long-ago death of his wife results in tragedy for his estranged daughter Maggie Pierce. Price would later play a similar role, that of Verden Fell, in Tomb of Ligeia (1965).

The Black Cat
In the second segment, Vincent has a ball throwing Peter Lorre's head around as a celebrated oenologist, Fortunato. The story weaves elements of Poešs The Cask of Amontillado into a mordantly funny revenge tale concerning Price, his bitter enemy Lorre, and Lorre's two-timing wife Joyce Jameson.

The Case of Mr. Valdemar
In the creepiest, and most disturbing segments of the film, Vincent plays a dying man (Valdemar) whose soul is put into limbo by an evil mesmerist (Basil Rathbone). Even today, the sound of Vincent's voice as the anguished Valdemar send shivers down my spine. And as for the final shot. Phew! Pass the air freshener.


A Trilogy of Shock and Horror!





Stay tuned. A sound clip will appear here soon.


Directed by Roger Corman
Story by Richard Matheson

CAST
Vincent Price as Locke/Fortunato/Valdemar
Peter Lorre as Montresor Herringbone
Joyce jameson as Annabel
Basil Rathbone as Carmichael
Debra Paget as Helene
David Frankham as Dr James


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