Summary
The podcast episode dives into the 1988 horror film "Ghost House," directed by Umberto Lindsay, known for his schlocky genre films. The discussion begins with the film's premise, which revolves around a haunted house and a sinister clown doll, drawing comparisons to the American classic "Poltergeist." The hosts highlight how "Ghost House" borrows visual elements from its predecessor while crafting a distinctly bizarre narrative.
The plot unfolds with a prologue set 20 years prior, where a girl named Henrietta is punished by her father for killing a cat, leading to her eventual haunting. Fast forward to the present, a couple, Martha and Paul, investigate a mysterious radio transmission that hints at a murder. Their journey leads them to the titular ghost house, where they encounter a series of supernatural events, including a creepy clown doll and a menacing figure known as the Maggot Reaper.
As the episode progresses, the hosts detail the film's chaotic structure, filled with absurd dialogue and over-the-top performances. They note the film's blend of horror and comedy, with characters facing increasingly ridiculous situations, culminating in a darkly humorous ending where Paul is killed by a bus after a confrontation with the supernatural. The episode concludes with reflections on the film's campy charm and its place in the horror genre, inviting listeners to share their thoughts on haunted house films and their own Halloween viewing traditions.
Show Notes
In this episode of Weirdhouse Cinema, Rob and Joe discuss 1988’s “Ghosthouse,” directed by schlock-master Umberto Lenzi and starring Lara Wendel. Think of it as “Poltergeist” in Boston, as told by the director of “Cannibal Ferox.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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