Film OverviewWhoever Slew Auntie Roo? is a scary thriller film launched in 1972 by American global Pictures. Directed by Curtis Harrington, the film is a loosely based adjustment of the fairytale 'Hansel and Gretel' with a cast that includes Shelley Winters, Mark Lester, and Chloe Franks.
Plot SummaryThe movie follows 'Auntie Roo' - Rosalie, a rich widow living in a big mansion in England. Grief-stricken over the death of her daughter Katharine, Rosalie hosts an annual Christmas celebration for the regional orphans, tricking herself into thinking Katharine is still alive. The estate has lots of illusions and secrets, like a room devoted to Katharine that has been protected considering that her death, and a locked attic room that contains a stunning trick.
Main CharactersShelley Winters gives a powerful efficiency as the unsteady Auntie Roo, whose life is consumed by the loss of her child. Numerous subplots revolve around Auntie Roo, including her attraction to a con artist called Benjamin, who intends to rob her, and her interactions with the regional townspeople, who grow progressively suspicious of her eccentric habits.
Mark Lester and Chloe Franks play Christopher and Katy Coombs, a brother and sister from the local orphanage who attend Auntie Roo's annual Christmas celebration. After Christopher and Katy discover themselves abandoned and homeless, they take haven in Auntie Roo's estate. As they browse your house, they stumble upon Auntie Roo's darkest tricks.
Thrilling Plot DevelopmentThe motion picture takes a dark turn when Katy bears a striking similarity to the deceased Katharine. Auntie Roo, driven by desperation and madness, decides to keep Katy, persuading herself that Katy is a reincarnation of her child. Christopher finds himself in a lethal cat and mouse game as he attempts to rescue his sibling from the increasingly unstable Auntie Roo.
Thriller and ClimaxWatching from the covert places of the mansion, Christopher unravels the truth about Katharine's death and Auntie Roo's insanity. The climax of the movie is filled with tense moments and risky situations as Christopher takes desperate actions to conserve his sister. Auntie Roo's insanity eventually causes her failure and the children's escape.
Last ThoughtsWhoever Slew Auntie Roo? provides a chilling and climatic experience unique to 1970s horror movies. Shelley Winters excels in her portrayal of the mentally disturbed Rosalie, whose grief drives her to inconceivable lengths. The dark undertones of the motion picture paired with the grim portrayal of the classic fairy tale makes Whoever Slew Auntie Roo? a distinctly engaging film.
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