October (1928) Review in 2025
October is a 1928 silent horror film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, based on the play 'The Turn of the Screw'. The movie follows a governess who takes care of two children at a remote estate, but soon discovers that the estate is haunted by malevolent spirits.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to its dark and eerie atmosphere.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for horror fans and Hitchcock enthusiasts, but it's not particularly suitable for young children or casual viewers.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The governess, played by Ivor Novello, is hired to take care of two children at a remote estate. As she settles in, she begins to suspect that the estate is haunted by the ghosts of former employees who died under mysterious circumstances. The governess becomes increasingly unhinged, and the children begin to act strangely, leading to a terrifying climax.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is engaging, but it's a bit predictable and lacks a strong narrative drive. The pacing is slow, but it builds up to a terrifying climax.
acting5.00/10
The acting is decent, but it's not particularly memorable. Ivor Novello is the standout performer, but even he's somewhat wooden at times.
characters6.00/10
The characters are well-developed, but they're not particularly memorable. The governess is the only character with any real depth, but even she's somewhat one-dimensional.
direction8.00/10
Hitchcock's direction is masterful, as always. He uses shadows and lighting to create a creepy atmosphere, and his use of camera angles is innovative for the time.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful black-and-white shots that capture the eerie atmosphere of the estate. The use of shadows and lighting is particularly effective.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie has a great atmosphere, and Hitchcock's direction is masterful. The cinematography is stunning, and the use of shadows and lighting is particularly effective.
Cons
The story is predictable, and the characters are somewhat one-dimensional. The acting is decent, but it's not particularly memorable.
Notable Quotes
"'I'm not afraid of the dark.'"
"'The children are mine now.'"
