Encounter with the Unknown (1972) (DVD REVIEW)
Directed By: Harry Thomason
STARRING: Rod Serling, Robert Ginnaven, Gary Brockette
RATED: UR/REGION: 1/Full Screen/NUMBER OF DISCS: 1 (DVD-r)
AVAILABLE FROM Alpha Video
Rod Serling narrates three terrifying tales in this rare horror anthology. Three eerie tales based on actual events are enacted in this film. First, three college students play a prank on a geeky classmate, who is accidentally shot and killed. His vengeful mother forecasts the deaths of the three young men she holds responsible, on 7, 14, and 21 days hence. And, one by one, her grim predictions come true. Next, a ghoulish sound emanates from a mist-shrouded hole in the Earth near where a Missouri boy has lost his dog. The boy’s father is lowered into the hole and lets out an agonizing scream! Finally, a senator returning home from a party finds a lost girl on a bridge and learns from her father that she died years earlier!
Encounter With the Unknown is a 1972 film that takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride through the unexplored realms of the supernatural. This anthology-style movie brings together three tales of mystery and intrigue, each with its own unique brand of terror. While it has its flaws, Encounter With the Unknown manages to strike a chord and leave a lasting impression. Let’s start with the plot. Each story unfolds in a way that keeps you guessing, blending elements of horror, science fiction, and the occult. While some plot twists felt predictable, others were genuinely surprising and kept me on the edge of my seat. The themes of the unknown and the fear of the unseen are quite prevalent throughout, creating a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. One of the film’s strengths lies in its acting and characters. The performances range from solid to forgettable, with a few standout portrayals that add depth and authenticity to the stories. While not every actor hits the mark, there are a few moments of brilliance that truly shine. The characters themselves are relatively one-dimensional, which is disappointing as more depth could have enhanced the overall impact of the film.
Despite its shortcomings, Encounter With the Unknown managed to evoke a sense of curiosity and fear within me. It reminded me of the excitement and wonder I used to feel when watching classic horror films. The movie perfectly captures the nostalgic charm of 1970s horror cinema, making it a significant experience for fans of the genre. In conclusion, Encounter With the Unknown is an imperfect yet intriguing anthology that successfully taps into the mysterious and uncanny. While it may not be a flawless masterpiece, it remains an enjoyable and thought-provoking journey into the realms of the supernatural. The film’s ability to evoke a mix of fear, wonder, and nostalgia is what truly resonated with me, making it worth a watch for aficionados of classic horror. Just be prepared for some outdated effects and pacing lulls along the way.
