Dead of Night was a made-for-television horror anthology film that premiered on NBC on March 29, 1977. Directed by Dan Curtis, known for his work on “Dark Shadows” and the 1975 adaptation of “Trilogy of Terror,” the film offers a trilogy of eerie stories written by Richard Matheson, a prolific author and screenwriter famous for his contributions to the horror and science fiction genres. The ensemble cast of “Dead of Night” includes a mix of seasoned actors and up-and-coming talent. Notable cast members include:
- Ed Begley Jr. as Dr. Elcott in “Second Chance”
- Patrick Macnee as Frank in “No Such Thing as a Vampire”
- Joan Hackett as Alexis Montclair in “No Such Thing as a Vampire”
- Anjanette Comer as Eileen in “Bobby”
The film also features Horst Buchholz and Elisha Cook Jr., adding gravitas to the anthology with their performances.
The Stories
“Dead of Night” is divided into three segments, each delivering a unique brand of horror:
- “Second Chance”: The first story follows Frank (played by Ed Begley Jr.), a young man who restores an antique car, only to discover that it has the power to transport him back in time. As Frank finds himself in the past, he realizes that his actions could have far-reaching consequences, blurring the lines between past and present.
- “No Such Thing as a Vampire”: Set in a small, fog-drenched village, this segment features Patrick Macnee as a man convinced that his wife, played by Joan Hackett, is being tormented by a vampire. The plot twists and turns as the characters unravel the mystery, leading to a surprising conclusion that subverts typical vampire tropes.
- “Bobby”: The final and most chilling segment tells the story of a grieving mother, Eileen (Anjanette Comer), who uses black magic to bring her dead son Bobby back to life. However, when Bobby returns, he is not the same, and the mother soon realizes that some things are better left undisturbed. This segment stands out for its psychological intensity and eerie atmosphere.
Reception and Legacy
“Dead of Night” received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised the film’s atmosphere and the performances, particularly in the “Bobby” segment, which many consider the standout of the anthology. The film’s ability to create suspense and deliver unexpected twists made it memorable, even if some viewers found certain segments uneven in terms of pacing and impact.
Richard Matheson’s writing was lauded for its cleverness, particularly in “No Such Thing as a Vampire,” where he subverted common horror themes. Meanwhile, Dan Curtis’s direction was credited with maintaining a sense of tension and foreboding throughout the film.
Although “Dead of Night” may not be as well-known as other horror anthologies, it has earned a cult following over the years. Fans of 1970s horror and anthologies appreciate its blend of supernatural and psychological horror, as well as its ability to evoke a sense of dread with relatively minimal special effects, relying instead on strong storytelling and atmospheric direction.
In conclusion, “Dead of Night” is a noteworthy entry in the horror anthology genre, especially for fans of 1970s television horror. Its eerie stories, memorable performances, and unexpected twists ensure its place as a cult classic in the pantheon of TV horror movies.
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Brett Summers
Brett founded CultFaction.com in 2014 a website and podcast that deals with cult film and tv. He also has a strong interest in grappling martial arts both as a practitioner and as a historian.
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