Manipulator, The

Manipulator, The is a captivating psychological thriller released in 1971, led by the legendary Mickey Rooney, who is joined by robust performers Luana Anders and Keenan Wynn. The three deliver a compelling performance, reflecting the tone of the 70's struggle with war and human nature. The story unfolds with a tumultuous journey of a lonely man to maintain his sanity under remarkable circumstances. The Manipulator is an entertaining blend of suspense and tragedy, offering the viewer a thrillingly narrated nightmare that comes alive on the screen. The movie serves a terrifying yet intoxicating journey into human eccentricity unbound with a generous serving of mystery and dread.

Veteran star Mickey Rooney portrays 'B.J' Lang, a man desperately grappling with the sanity of his own existence within an abandoned theatre house's threatening labyrinth. He is an aging, disgruntled special effects tech expert in Hollywood who has lost his footfalls on the ladder of success owing to his compulsive obsessions. After an unfortunate accident, he becomes a fugitive, confined within the haunting expanse of his seemingly derelict theater, hiding from the outside world that he perceives to be a threat.

Luana Anders is seen as Bianca, a young, innocent, and bewildered woman who stumbles upon Lang's confinement and, in a cruel twist, becomes his captive. The strange turn of events brings together two starkly different characters, creating a bizarre bonding among them. Meanwhile, Keenan Wynn, an established professional who brings a unique touch with his understated performances, is cast in an essential role, contributing significantly to the overall outcome of this fascinating storyline.

The film embarks on a dark voyage into Lang's mind as viewers witness him manipulate his captive, Bianca. He spends his time dressing her up and recreating scenes from his memories and thoughts using mannequins. The elaborate camera work pronounces the eeriness of these moments, engendering goosebumps and setting the grim mood as he forces her to participate in his outlandish performances. Rooney's performance takes center stage, demonstrating an extraordinarily tense and edgy character, revealing the actor's undeniable prowess on-screen.

Director Yabo Yablonsky's narrative stays true to its chosen path – a blend of quiet desperation, madness and eccentricity. His direction permeates a sense of thrill that trickles throughout the movie, maintaining the mystery and tension without missing a beat. The Manipulator is an impressive exhibit of raw intensity with careful craft and malignant joy featuring an atmosphere that resonates with an omnipresent anxiety, while maintaining an uncanny quietness, that adjusts perfectly to the eerie plot.

The film's cinematography, under the expert supervision of Paul Hipp, emphasizes the eerie, desolate ambiance of the surroundings. The stark camerawork captures the essence of an abandoned theatre turning into a grotesque maze of human mind, dominating the mood and atmosphere of the movie. It also takes a deep dive into the various peculiarities of human psychology, laying bare the complexities of the human mind like never before.

Overall, The Manipulator is bound to leave the viewer in a perpetual state of anticipation. With great performances, intricately designed sets, and a story that is both thrilling and terrifying, it takes the audience on a roller coaster ride of emotions. This film is not for the faint-hearted but is a must-watch for fans of the horror and psychological thriller genres.

In summary, The Manipulator is more than just a movie; it is an exploration of extremes of the human psyche. It is a dark symphony of suspense, dread, and paranoia that amalgamates into a masterpiece of its times. It can be unsettling and intense, but it is a powerful testament to the acting prowess of its amazing cast and the exceptional vision of its creative team. The Manipulator is a thrilling cinematic experience that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.