The Screaming Skull

(1958) **1/2

Newlyweds Eric and Jenny move into a large mansion owned by Mary, Eric’s deceased first wife. Early on we learn that Mary was killed in a freak accident that resulted in her skull being crushed. Throughout the mansion are reminders of Mary. One large self-portrait is particularly eerie and the relief bust on her tombstone is downright creepy. As the couple settles into their new home, Jenny, who is as psychologically fragile as a menagerie collection, begins hearing terrible shrieks at night and periodically stumbles across skulls hidden throughout the house. It would seem that Eric's dead wife is none too pleased about his new union. Add to the mix a creepy, monosyllabic gardener who was in love with Mary and seems unhappy that there is a new woman in the house. Indeed the house holds secrets and they threaten to destroy the couple’s idyllic life.

Another very b movie from the 50s that most people never saw because they were busy making out. Although low on production value, this is a fun, albeit fairly predictable “ghost” story. The climax is fun and actually contains one mildly good scare. I must confess that I watched this purely because I liked the title. There’s a cute gimmick at the beginning of the film where we’re shown a casket and informed that all funeral expenses will be paid for if we die of fright from watching the movie. I’m sure no one ever needed to take them up on this offer.