Stark Fear

Stark Fear is a gripping, psychological thriller that was released in 1962. It is a tale of suspense, fear, and paranoia that will leave the viewer on the edge of their seat.

The story begins with a young woman named Lisa, played by Beverly Garland. Lisa is a recently divorced woman who is looking for a fresh start in life. She finds a job as a caretaker on a remote farm, where she can work and live in peace. However, her solitude is soon interrupted by a group of escapees from the nearby state prison.

The convicts take Lisa hostage and demand she drives them to safety. Forced to comply, Lisa takes the men on a treacherous journey through the rugged wilderness, all while trying to keep her wits about her and avoid attracting the attention of law enforcement.

As the journey progresses, Lisa becomes increasingly unnerved by the convicts and their unpredictable behavior. The film does an excellent job of building tension as the viewer watches Lisa struggle to keep control of the situation, while the her captors threaten her life at every turn.

The performances in the film are exceptional, with Beverly Garland giving a standout performance as the film's lead. She convincingly portrays the fear, anxiety, and desperation that Lisa must be experiencing during her ordeal.

Skip Homeier and Kenneth Tobey also give excellent performances as the two main convicts. Homeier plays Bruce, the leader of the group, who is always looking for a way to assert his dominance. Tobey plays Roy, the more level-headed of the two, who is torn between following orders and doing what he believes is right.

The film's direction is also noteworthy, with director Nedrick Young making excellent use of the film's setting. The rugged wilderness creates a sense of isolation and danger, adding to the tension and fear felt by the viewer.

The film's soundtrack is also impressive. The score by Gerald Fried is atmospheric and haunting, adding to the film's sense of dread.

Overall, Stark Fear is a tense and well-crafted thriller that will keep the viewer engaged from start to finish. The film's performances, direction, and soundtrack all work together to create a sense of fear and paranoia that will stay with the viewer long after the credits have rolled.