Criminally Insane

Criminally Insane, a unique offering from the world of suspenseful horror cinema, came into existence in 1975. Directed by Nick Millard (also known by his pseudonym, Nick Philips), the film stars Priscilla Alden, Michael Flood, and Jane Lambert, who provide viewers with riveting performances. The film tactfully combines suspense, horror, and psychological drama into an engaging narrative that keeps viewers hooked until the very end.

The story primarily revolves around an unusual character named Ethel Janowski, played skillfully by Priscilla Alden. We are introduced to Ethel at the beginning of the movie as she is being released from a psychiatric hospital. Struggling with obesity and a voracious appetite, Ethel has a disturbing past associated with her food obsessions, hinting towards a complicated mind.

Once back at her home, it quickly becomes apparent to viewers that Ethel's mental health condition is far from cured. Her compulsive eating habits and unstable mental state turn her ordinary family life into a nerve-wracking situation. This situation is further complicated by her authoritarian grandmother and quarrelsome prostitute-sister, creating an unsettling environment of persistent tension and conflict.

The movie subtly exposes Ethel's internal struggle with food addiction and her desperate measures to gratify her insatiable needs. Alden's uncanny portrayal of Ethel allows viewers to delve into the depths of a disturbed mind, marked by erratic behavior and violent outbursts.

The introduction of Michael Flood’s character creates another layer of complexity in the plot. As Ethel's doctor, he struggles to stabilize her condition. His character brings a ray of hope, as he is determined to help Ethel overcome her uncontrolled habits and behaviors. His interactions with Ethel introduce viewers to the complexities of mental health issues, and their social and personal implications.

Jane Lambert’s character adds flavor to the narrative with her edgy performance. She plays Ethel’s unconventional sister, who is starkly different in her attitudes and demeanor, causing an uneasy disruption in Ethel's life. Their clashing lives and worldviews create a dynamic tension that adds interest to the film.

Director Nick Millard excelled in presenting a disturbing narrative that unravels the consequences of unchecked mental health conditions. He smartly utilizes horror elements, not through supernatural entities or monstrous figures, but via the deeply unsettling psychological aspects of the characters themselves. By focusing on the deranged mind of the central protagonist, Millard brings to light the horrifying outcomes of untreated mental issues, making the film uniquely eerie and effectively horrifying.

The movie is shot in a gritty and realistic tone, enhancing the haunting effect of Ethel’s mental decay. Lighting and sound effects are applied skillfully to conjure a chilling atmosphere that stays with viewers long after the credits roll. Together, these elements work in harmony to gradually intensify the sense of dread and horror intrinsic to the story, making the film a memorable entry in the genre of psychological horror.

Criminally Insane could indeed be seen as a social commentary on the importance of appropriate mental health therapy, offering a stark reflection of the devastating effects of unaddressed psychological ailments. However, instead of being a preachy drama, the movie is an engaging horror tale that grips viewers through its atmospheric eeriness and well-crafted narrative. It is not about jump scares or graphic violence, but more about the subtle, creeping horror that seeps from the characters themselves, exploring the dark corners of the human mind.

The compelling performances of Priscilla Alden, Michael Flood, and Jane Lambert add depth and dimension to the film’s characters, keeping viewers invested in their ominous fate throughout. Their portrayals offer a nuanced understanding of the characters' respective dimensions, complexities, and conflicting emotions.

In conclusion, Criminally Insane is a deeply unsettling and thought-provoking horror film that steps away from conventional tropes and instead delves into the horrifying reality of mental health disorders. Its exploration of a disturbed mind via compelling performances and a striking narrative command attention, making Criminally Insane a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and suspense.