User reviews

After the tragic death of her fiancé a young woman see visions of her boyfriend in an old mirror he bought one day before their car accident.The psychiatrist who is interested in esoteric knowledge and occult decides to help her...First of all I haven't seen "Ritual of Evil" yet,so I won't compare "Fear No Evil" to it.Basically "Fear No Evil" contains no gore and nudity.Still the story is captivating and the acting is very good.The plot moves slowly and the climax is quite eerie and memorable.Several plot twists are quite unexpected.If you are into late 60's or 70's TV-made horror "Fear No Evil" is worth checking out.The evil in the mirror concept is usually fascintaing.7 mirrors out of 10.

I'm writing this review to let people know this obscure movie finally has a real release and a great looking blu ray at that. I'm also writing this to let you know that this is overrated by the 11 reviews on here haha. This movie moves at a snails pace being 98 minutes. If it had been the typical tv movie length of 73 minutes it would have kept my attention better. I LOVE 60's and 70's tv movies especially horror but this not one of the best by far. The story was interesting but never really took off. The last 20 minutes are good but just not done that well. I feel like those with fond memories of it 51 years ago may be let down seeing it again but the transfer looks amazing and the blu ray has the sequel and commentary tracks!

"Fear No Evil" (1969), directed by Paul Wendkos, is a standout entry in the horror genre that skillfully combines suspense with supernatural elements. The film follows a gripping storyline centered around a psychiatrist who becomes embroiled in a sinister case involving a man seemingly possessed by a mysterious and malevolent force.

Wendkos's direction ensures that the film maintains a chilling atmosphere throughout, with effective use of tension and eerie visuals to build suspense. The performances, particularly those of the lead actors, add depth and credibility to the unsettling narrative. The film's blend of psychological intrigue and supernatural horror keeps viewers engaged, offering a compelling and original story that stands out in its era.

Overall, "Fear No Evil" is a compelling watch for fans of psychological and supernatural horror. Its creative approach to storytelling, combined with a strong atmosphere and engaging performances, makes it a memorable film that continues to captivate audiences.

I have a taped copy of this movie ...... somewhere. It is quite special, so I was surprised to find it unlisted in guidebooks such as Mauldin's. An important element involves a demonic force trying to seduce a young woman when she gazes into a mirror. Maybe it's just me, but the idea of an evil force from inside a mirror trying to distort your view of reality and control you seems particularly frightening --- of course one thinks of Dead of Night (1945), the old classic horror film. Also, the scenes where the demon is being summoned are quite disturbing --- the makers of the film seem to have had some special insight into demonology. Bradford Dillman is already dead for most of the movie, but he plays a great haunted spirit on both sides of the grave, and Louis Jourdan is good as the calm, rational psychiatrist trying to help the woman by any means possible, including unorthodox ones.

Paul Wendkos' 1969 made-for-television film "Fear No Evil" offers viewers a chilling exploration of the supernatural that, while not groundbreaking, manages to deliver an engaging and atmospheric experience. This gothic horror tale follows the story of a psychiatrist who becomes embroiled in a battle against dark forces when he attempts to help a young woman plagued by a malevolent entity.

The film's strength lies in its ability to create a palpable sense of unease and tension throughout its runtime. Wendkos skillfully utilizes the limitations of the television format to his advantage, relying on suggestive imagery and psychological horror rather than explicit scares. This approach proves effective in maintaining a creepy ambiance that keeps viewers on edge.

Louis Jourdan delivers a solid performance as the skeptical psychiatrist Dr. David Sorell, bringing a sense of gravitas and believability to his role. His journey from doubt to acceptance of the supernatural elements forms the backbone of the narrative, allowing the audience to gradually immerse themselves in the increasingly bizarre events unfolding on screen.

Lynda Day George, portraying the tormented Barbara Anholt, manages to convey a convincing sense of vulnerability and fear, although at times her performance teeters on the edge of melodrama. The supporting cast, including Bradford Dillman as Barbara's concerned husband and Carroll O'Connor in a small but memorable role, contribute to the overall effectiveness of the ensemble.

One particularly stand-out scene occurs during a séance sequence, where Wendkos masterfully builds tension through a combination of eerie sound design, shadowy cinematography, and well-timed reveals. This scene encapsulates the film's ability to create genuinely unsettling moments without relying on excessive special effects or gore.

The screenplay, penned by Richard Alan Simmons, weaves together elements of traditional ghost stories with more modern psychological thriller tropes. While not always seamlessly integrated, this blend of old and new horror conventions helps to keep the narrative fresh and unpredictable.

However, "Fear No Evil" is not without its flaws. The pacing occasionally lags, particularly in the middle section, and some of the dialogue feels stilted by today's standards. Additionally, the limited budget and constraints of television production are evident in certain scenes, which may detract from the overall immersion for some viewers.

Despite these shortcomings, the film manages to overcome many of its limitations through sheer atmosphere and committed performances. The use of location shooting adds a layer of authenticity to the proceedings, while the moody score by Billy Goldenberg enhances the supernatural elements without overpowering the on-screen action.

As a product of its time, "Fear No Evil" serves as an interesting snapshot of late 1960s horror cinema, bridging the gap between classic gothic tales and the more visceral horror that would come to dominate the genre in subsequent decades. While it may not reach the heights of cinematic horror classics, it offers a solid and entertaining entry in the supernatural thriller subgenre.

"Fear No Evil," a made-for-television movie that first haunted screens in 1969, is a supernatural thriller that blends horror and sexuality in a way that was ahead of its time. With a story centered on the seductive and destructive nature of satanic evil, this Paul Wendkos-directed film has a lasting impression, leaving viewers with a chilling sense of unease long after the credits roll.

The film's story, written by Richard Alan Simmons, delves into the dark and sinister underbelly of the intelligentsia, a unique setting for a supernatural tale. The plot unfolds with a sense of creeping dread, drawing viewers into its eerie world. While some may find the pace slow by today's standards, it adds to the building tension and creates a sense of foreboding that keeps you watching.

One of the standout aspects of "Fear No Evil" is its surprising sexual content, which was uncommon for television in the late 1960s. The film tastefully weaves sensuality into its horror narrative, creating a heady and provocative mix that adds depth to the story and character motivations. It's a bold choice that pays off, making the film feel more adult and nuanced.

The acting in this television movie is generally solid. While some performances may feel a tad dated, they are sincere. Carroll O'Connor, in particular, delivers a memorable performance, and his final scene with a mirror is one that stays with you long after viewing. The film's score, composed by William Goldenberg, is also worth mentioning. It enhances the atmosphere, providing a subtle yet unsettling backdrop to the on-screen terror.

However, "Fear No Evil" is not without its shortcomings. Some viewers may find the movie's pace sluggish at times, and certain aspects may feel hokey and old-fashioned. The special effects, while likely impressive for its time, don't hold up to modern standards, and the film's style may not appeal to those who prefer their horror more explicit and fast-paced.

That being said, "Fear No Evil" is a fascinating snapshot of television horror from a bygone era. It's a film that, despite some dated elements, still manages to captivate and intrigue. It's a testament to its impact that viewers are still discussing and analyzing it decades later.

In conclusion, "Fear No Evil" is a spooky, sexy, and thought-provoking trip down memory lane. It might not be perfect, but it's a must-watch for fans of classic horror and a fascinating look at how the genre has evolved.

So, if you're in the mood for a chilling blast from the past, let "Fear No Evil" cast its spell on you. Just be prepared for a few goosebumps and a lingering sense of unease! 🦇🔥🎥

This hard to find made for TV movie is one of my all time favorites in the suspense department. The movie's plot is innovative and creepy without resorting to any of the hackneyed standard scare tactics that discredits so many other horror films. Outstanding performances by Carroll O'Connor and Louis Jourdan are a highlight and Marsha Hunt is also excellent as the mother who secretly does not have her son's fiancé best interests at heart. The movie's climax is also extremely well crafted and gripping as psychiatrist Louis Jourdan uses guile and creativity in his attempt to save Barbara from the antique mirror that seeks to possess her. I would recommend this movie to fans of the genre-if you can find it.

Restored quality in picture doesn't make it a better movie.

Hokey and old-fashioned, it's hard to believe 'Fear no Evil' was released one year after Rosemary's Baby, which is a film that hasn't dated at all.

FEAR NO EVIL is a sophisticated blend of suggested horror and surprising sexual content for its time ('69) and place (tv). I haven't seen this movie since it was first broadcast, and I wish it were available on video so I could reconfirm my impressions about it. The opening scene, at a party, in which Louis Jourdan intrigues and frightens his friends about the contents of a box in his possession, sets the tone for the film and is a masterfully edited sequence of the unknown and unseen that scares the viewer without resorting to gore or cheap shocks.

The plot of the picture, dealing with passion from beyond the grave, is exceptionally well done and quite daring and bold for a late-sixties tv movie. Again, I wish I had the opportunity to re-view the movie to re-experience the pleasure it gave me, so that the story would be fresher in my mind and I could do it more justice here.

When first aired in 1969, this TV production was a ratings powerhouse for NBC. Starring the infrequently used Louis Jourdan as David Sorell, an L.A. psychiatrist with an interest in the occult, the film tells the story of a mirror that holds a demon that possesses the soul of newlywed Bradford Dillman. Lynda Day (the future wife of actor Christopher George) plays Dillman's hapless wife who herself is to be the next victim of the mirror's machinations. A pre-Archie Bunker Carroll O'Connor is on hand as Dillman's friend that's hiding a sinister secret. Veteran actress Marsha Hunt is very good as Dillman's adoring and devoted mother. English stalwart Wilfred Hyde-White plays Jourdan's apparent mentor in things that go bump in the night.

The film has a nicely creepy feel, befitting the studio (Universal) that brought the world so many classic horror films during the 30's.

Also, the score by Billy Goldenberg is effectively spooky, especially the scene wherein the entranced George descends from the stairs to be "rejoined" with her deceased husband.

"Fear No Evil" yielded a sequel a year later, the somewhat weaker "Ritual of Evil" with Jourdan returning in the lead role.

The story opens with a seemingly groggy and disoriented Paul Varney banging on the door of closed antique shop. Varney flashes a wad of cash at the shop owner and once inside, purchases a beautiful full length antique mirror and arranges to have it delivered to his apartment. Hosting an all night party at his apartment, psychiatrist David Sorell meets Varney and his fiancé Barbara Anholt through his friend Miles Donovan. During a discussion about evil spirits and demons, Varney brings up the demon Rakashi. When Sorell questions Varney about it he gets a a bit touchy and leaves with Barbara to race in a vintage car road rally. Looking in his rear view mirror during the course of rally, Varney seems overcome by a reflection in the mirror and wreaks the car killing himself and injuring Barbara.

A grief stricken and depressed Barbara moves in with Paul's affluent mother, but instead of recovering, Barbara seems to be drifting deeper into a suicidal state and is becoming obsessed with idea of joining Paul in the afterlife via the antique mirror where she believes Paul's spirit dwells.

To save Barbara's life, David Sorell must investigate the circumstances leading up to Pauls death, including the reasons for his purchase of the antique mirror, his knowledge of Rakashi,and his participation in a demon raising ceremony conducted by a convocation of demonologists immediately prior to his purchasing the mirror.During the course of his investigation, Sorell with the help of his friend and mentor Harry Snowden,and despite the attempted obstructions of Miles Donovan,learns there is much more to the Rakashi legend the he could have possibly imagined and that some people he thought he knew, are not what they seem to be. Every piece of evidence he follows leads him back to the mirror and it's hold on Barbara and in the end he finds himself in a fantastic and horrifying neither world struggling for Barbara's very soul.

Paul Wendkos knew how to direct television drama and he does a top notch job with Fear No Evil. The film boast a wonderful cast with Louis Jourdan,Carroll O'Connor,and Bradford Dillman and they give excellent performances. Beautiful Lynda Day George is sexy and vulnerable as Barbara. Wilfred Hyde-White, Marsha Hunt, and Katherine Woodville are top notch in key supporting roles. If William Goldenburgs eerie musical score doesn't give you goosebumps then nothing will. This is a very hard movie to locate, but it's truly a little treasure if you do.

The late 60's in the US produced some unforgettable TV-movies. 1967 had "Games" with Simon Signoret, 1969 gave us the strangely forgotten prize-winning "Male of the Species" with Anna Calder-Marshall & Sir Paul Scofield, and 1969 the erotic thriller "Fear No Evil". The casting was perfect, the writing intelligent, the direction impeccable. These were shows that didn't condescend to a TV audience nor pander to the lowest common denominator - all of these (note the latter 2 of the 3 sadly unavailable to date, and the former available as a used VHS at exorbitant prices) were examples of television that had the best of cinema, provoking, haunting, memorable, risk-taking, trail-blazing. In some ways the eroticism of these 3 TV shows was more daring than the X-rated "Midnight Cowboy". Hard to imagine network television today producing anything of comparable caliber, or to imagine people reminiscing and seeking out copies of the pap we are fed today 30-40 years from now. I would love to get my hands on these last 2, very different but equally entertaining and memorable shows, if only to explain to my offspring that once upon a time there was network television - and it was good. Bradford Dillman and Louis Jourdan were perfect opposites, both seductively charming opposite the virginal blonde beauty Lynda Day (later George), I can't imagine any other actors before or since taking this supernatural horror premise and making it so plausible. Excellent work by all -- so where is the DVD??? (an aside, did Louis Jourdan play Count Dracula before or after Fear No Evil? God, even RENFIELD was sexy in that one, in one memorable scene at least - although Frank Langella was also a honey - and the female star also played Claire in Zeffirelli's "Brother Sun Sister Moon". Must have been later, as he looked a lot older, and I had already left the States when it aired and didn't get to see it until the 80's)

I remember seeing this as a kid and NEVER forgetting it. I found it haunting and also hauntingly beautiful in its way. I have tried to track down a copy but have never been able to find much at all about this movie. I remembered Lynda George and Bradford Dillman and through a bunch of searching finally located info. I am surprised it is so hard to locate unless I am only imagining how good it was. The film was poignant and I especially liked Lynda George's performance. If anyone knows how I can get a copy, please email me. It was one of my favorite movies long ago. I also liked the Borgia Stick and had these two confused in my mind. That movie is also nearly as obscure and hard

Another childhood favourite, does it still hold up.

For a made for TV film, hell yes!

There is: no big budget sets no big budget special effects no blood or splatter

but it works as the cast & story just work so well: A cast of excelent actors. Atmosphere and cheap 70s TV chroma key.

I think this film worked because of its limits. Yes some of the film looks a bit cheep when the scene isnt at night or in shadow but hell it works.

I hope this comes on bluray someday.

One of the most brilliant made for television films ever aired, it is sad to say, appears to be now a "Lost" film as Universal Pictures, after I did research on this title, has no print or material on this title in their vaults.

I know this as a fact when I worked with film historian, Philip J. Riley, when working together on my book of the making of "Fear No Evil" (BearManor Media 2012).

There is a 16mm in the Library of Congress, and there are prints in the hands of private collectors, but, it appears, that all 35mm materials were possibly junked before the idea recycling titles for VHS/laserdisc and DVD were thought of.

Hopefully, someone, or someplace (France?), has the materials so a beautiful digital restoration can be made.

FIRST OFF-it is nice seeing the poster I created for my book, "The Rakashi File: Fear No Evil" (BearManor media) being used here!

This outstanding television pilot was feared for many years to be a lost film. There was a fire, some years ago, in the Universal vaults, and it was thought all original materials were lost.

Some years ago, I wrote a piece on this gem for "Films In Review" (online), and felt there was so much more to be said.

I had planned writing a book on this film while working with the very impressive and talented Philip J. Riley on getting film novelization adaptions back in print from BearManor media.

The both of us contacted Universal on requesting all information in regard to the negative and IP on this title, as this movie was NEVER released on vhs, laserdisc or dvd/Bluray.

Universal responded to us both they had NO information on this film or the location of printing materials or if they existed. Filmmaker Gary Gerani ("Pumpkinhead", "Trading Paint") was working on a film documentary on composer William Goldenberg when he joined us on the book and in turn, to the delight of us all, located the "Fear No Evil" materials in the vault. After the book ("The Rakashi File: Fear No Evil"-BearManor media) was published, we decided to explore the possibility of getting this, and the sequel ("Ritual Of Evil") back in circulation. Gary had funded restoring "Ritual Of Evil"-the IP-out of pocket so we were set there.

I first contacted Robert Blair of VCI for getting the Rights but Universal wanted too high a price. Gary then contacted Frank Tarzi of Kino-Lorber who decided to release it. The dvd/Bluray was released in a restored 2k transfer with commentary by Gary himself. Actress Lynda Day George, who had in the meantime, became a friend of mine, praised the final product as beautiful.

I hope this gives a idea the road to how "Fear No Evil" & "Ritual Of Evil" found their way back to be enjoyed!

Like most of the other reviewers, I saw FEAR NO EVIL when it was first broadcast on NBC back in 1969. I must have been impressed at the time but all I could remember was Carroll O'Connor's final scene with the mirror. So when I watched the movie again after 50 years it was like seeing it for the first time until the very end. Now that I have seen FNE again, I must say that the film holds up rather well. It was the first regular made-for-TV movie and was supposed to be the pilot for a potential series featuring Louis Jourdan as occult psychologist David Sorrell. The ratings were good enough to warrant a sequel, RITUAL OF EVIL, but then it was dropped by Universal in favor of Rod Serling's NIGHT GALLERY.

The story deals with Jourdan investigating a group of Satanists who attempt to bring forth a major demon by means of an antique mirror. In order to do this they need an unknowing victim to be the "host". Unfortunately this person dies before the demon can be released and so they seek a replacement in the victim's fiance' who is then bewitched by his image in the mirror. It is then up to Dr Sorrell to prevent her from committing suicide to fulfill the Satanists' pact. Bradford Dillman and Lynda Day (later George) co-star as the unfortunate couple with Carroll O' Connor, in one of his best pre-Archie Bunker roles, as the leader of the Satanists. Wilfrid Hyde-White plays Jourdan's mentor who tells him to tread carefully.

RITUAL OF EVIL, the followup movie, is not as good. This time around instead of Satanists, Dr Sorell must deal with a group of bored rich people who are celebrating a black mass without realizing the consequences of what it means. Unbeknownst to them, one of their members is a real witch who has the power to destroy people by burning the photographs she has taken of them. As members of their circle dwindle, Dr Sorell discovers who the witch is but falls under her spell. She, however, is interested in the young daughter of a faded film actress. Can he persevere? Anne Baxter stars as the actress with a wonderful performance from Diana Hyland who would tragically die a few years later from cancer.

This DVD / Blu-Ray combo is just one of a number of Universal made-for-TV movies from the late 1960s-mid 1970s that are being released by Kino Lorber as part of their Studio Classics series. Both movies have undergone a 2K restoration and look as good as they ever have or probably ever will. Remember these are TV movies not big budget Hollywood offerings which is why it's good to see someone taking the trouble to make them available for a new generation. The discs come with a number of extras including commentary, trailers for both films, image galleries, and much appreciated subtitles for those of us who saw these movies when they were first broadcast over half a century ago...For more reviews visit The Capsule Critic.